The Theory Of Inquiry Letter
The letter of inquiry is very similar to a proposal except that it is
short…a mini-proposal. You might draw the elements of the LOI from a
grant proposal that you have already constructed and that may even be
partially funded. Or you may certainly use the information that you are
in the process of putting together for a proposal. Sending a LOI before
you finalize a final proposal is a way to get valuable feedback that you
can use to revise your proposal ideas.
Here are the common elements of the typical letter of inquiry:
>>Introduction
The introduction is a short executive summary. It includes the name of
your organization, the amount of money being requested, and a
description of the project involved. You’ll want to indicate how the
project fits with the funder’s guidelines and funding interests.
>>Organizational Description
Be concise and concentrate on your organization’s ability to meet the
need that you’ve stated. Give a brief history of your nonprofit and give
a capsule of your programs. Make sure to directly connect what you
currently do and what you want to accomplish with the funding that is
requested..
>>Statement of Need
Explain the need that can be met by your project. Describe the target
population and geographic area. Provide a few significant statistical
facts and several examples.
>>Methodology
How will you solve the need? Describe the project succinctly and include
the major activities, names and titles of key project staff, and your
project’s objectives.
>>Other Funding Sources
If you are approaching other entities for support of this project,
mention them in a brief paragraph. Include already secured funding if
you have that and indicate how you expect to support the project
activities after the initial time period.
>>Summary
Restate the intent of your project, explain that you are ready to answer
additional questions, and thank the funder for his or her time and
consideration. Attachments that are consistent with the funder’s
guidelines can be included.
A budget may or may not be required for your letter of inquiry. Check
the funder’s own guidelines. Some guidelines are very specific, and it
is important to follow them exactly. For instance, these guidelines from
The Cailloux Foundation specify that the LOI should be submitted
online, using the foundation’s own form, and spells out exactly the
attachments that should be included.
The Example Of Inquiry Letter
