Proposals

Proposals offer a plan for solving a specific problem. They are usually presented to groups or individuals who have resources that might be used to address the problem, or who can grant permission for putting a plan into effect. For example, a nonprofit organization might propose that a charitable foundation fund an after-school tutoring program for children of one-parent families. Or a research center at a university might request approval from a city council for a pilot program to improve wheelchair access in local parks.

Proposals typically define a problem, describe a plan for addressing the problem, and argue that the person or group making the proposal has the capacity to carry out the plan. They might also include budgets, plans for evaluating outcomes, and information about the person or group making the proposal.

The structure and general appearance of proposals vary widely and tend to reflect the interests of the intended audience; often, proposals must follow strict guidelines outlined in grant application instructions or a call for proposals. Some proposals resemble academic essays, with wide margins, double-spaced lines, headings and subheadings, and limited use of color and illustrations. Others more closely resemble magazine articles or brochures, with heavy use of color, illustrations, columns, and other design elements.