Our Process

A repeatable, structured approach that reduces stress and increases win rates.

Every successful proposal follows a clear path from initial discovery to post-award stewardship. Our six-step process ensures nothing falls through the cracks and every opportunity is evaluated with rigor and clarity.

1

Discover

We start by understanding your organization, your programs, your funding goals, and your capacity. This includes reviewing your mission, strategic plan, current funding portfolio, and any existing case-for-support materials.

Deliverables: Discovery session notes, organizational profile, funding readiness assessment

2

Align

We conduct prospect research and create alignment scorecards that evaluate fit, capacity, and strategic value. Using our go/no-go rubric, we help you decide which opportunities are worth pursuing.

Deliverables: Prospect research report, alignment scorecard, go/no-go recommendation

3

Build

We develop the proposal architecture, narrative outline, and budget structure. This includes identifying evidence needs, gathering supporting materials, and creating a project calendar with clear milestones.

Deliverables: Proposal outline, narrative architecture, budget framework, project calendar

4

Write

We draft the full proposal, including narrative sections, budget narratives, and supporting documents. Throughout the process, we maintain regular communication and incorporate your feedback through structured revision cycles.

Deliverables: Draft proposal, budget narrative, supporting documents, revision cycles

5

Submit

We conduct a final compliance review, prepare all attachments, and manage the submission process. This includes red-team review, quality assurance checks, and ensuring every requirement is met.

Deliverables: Final proposal package, compliance checklist, submission confirmation

6

Steward

After submission, we help you manage the relationship with the funder, prepare for potential site visits or interviews, and develop renewal strategies. For awarded grants, we support reporting and ongoing stewardship.

Deliverables: Post-submission debrief, renewal strategy, reporting support (if awarded)

Our Tools

Throughout the process, we use systematic tools to ensure quality and consistency:

  • Alignment Scorecards: Evaluate funder fit and strategic value
  • Go/No-Go Rubric: Quick decision framework for opportunity evaluation
  • Red-Team Memos: Critical review from a funder's perspective
  • Compliance Checklists: Ensure every requirement is met
  • Project Calendars: Clear milestones and deadlines

Many of these tools are available in our Resources section.

Ready to See It in Action?

Schedule a walkthrough of our process and see how we can help you win more grants.

Schedule a Walkthrough