AJE Blog

Proposal Writing Checklist

Written by Charla Viera, MS | May 28, 2025 8:51:09 AM

Proposal Writing Checklist 

For Non-Governmental & International Funding Applications 

🔍 Mission Fit 

  • Have I clearly aligned my project with the funder’s mission and strategic priorities? 
  • Did I reference specific language from their website or funding guidelines?

📈 Real-World Impact 

  • Have I clearly explained how my research makes a difference (policy, practice, people)? 
  • Did I quantify expected outcomes where possible and avoid academic jargon?

🤝Collaboration 

  • Have I identified key partners and described their role in the project? 
  • Did I explain why these collaborations strengthen the proposal?
💸Budget 
  • Is my budget realistic, transparent, and well-justified? 
  • Have I accounted for international costs (e.g., travel, cross-border work)?

🧭Review Readiness 

  • Is the proposal easy to navigate (headers, bullets, short paragraphs)? 
  • Have I followed all formatting, length, and submission guidelines?