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Proofing your grant writing

Given the competitive nature of [/SIZE][/FONT]grant writing[/FONT] it is advisable to follow a few simple processes to increase your chances of success.[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]When grant writing complete every little detail required of your grant application. Ensure the full contact details for your company or organisation are provided. Check the grant document to identify the number of contacts required and ensure you have checked, re checked and triple checked that the phone numbers and email addresses you are supplying are correct and the names, titles and positions of your contacts are correct also.[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Ensure you complete all of the requested organisation details such as ABN, GST status, bank details, financial position and contact details and addresses and you have provided any attachments required as part of this process.[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Ensure the project or program description or ideas section is fully completed and the grant writer has followed any formatting requests or expectations such as word counts and fonts are being used.[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]As a [/SIZE][/FONT]grant writer[/FONT] for a company or organisation it is worthwhile considering whether setting up an email account specifically for grant writing could be beneficial. You may receive a large number of both expected and unsolicited emails to your regular email address and you want to be able to reply promptly to any requests for additional information or other correspondence from the grant committee Ãââ having these requests go unanswered or being delayed can mean the difference between being successful with your application or being rejected.[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT] [/FONT]Avoid using jargon and make the grant application clear, easy to read and specific so the grant funding evaluators can understand exactly what you hope to achieve with the grant funds.[/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]A great grant writer provides continuity and consistency throughout the application. DonÃâât chop and change between writing in the first and third person. Read your finished application to see that it makes sense and flows smoothly. [/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]DonÃâât cut and paste applications from previous applications or use a piecemeal approach with several grant writers working on different sections of the same application. Each grant writer has their own style of writing and doing this will lead to a disjointed application that is difficult to decipher and follow.[/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]Read the grant program guide carefully prior to commencing the grant writing process to ensure that your project or program is eligible for funding under the grant terms and that everything you are including in your application is eligible. As tempting as it is to slip something in like IT needs when the grant precludes such items will lead to rejection of the entire grant. You may need to apply for more than one grant to achieve your full wish list.[/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]Be clear an open with your budget forecast and avoid adding unexplained or miscellaneous requirements. The grant evaluators want to see exactly what the funding will purchase. Choose items that are a reasonable in costÃââ donÃâât seek a quote or price for the top of the line all the bells and whistles product if the middle of the range will achieve your goals just as effectively. Be realistic and explain definitively why your project or program is value for money and will provide positive outcomes for the target group. [/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]Check your math! If your budget projections are incorrect or the totals donÃâât add up you are unlikely to be a successful grant writer in that case. [/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]Clearly explain the organisation contribution to the project or program whether it is financial contribution or labour and in-kind contributions.[/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]Align the budgeted items in your grant writing with your project description Ãââ that is be clear about what a piece of equipment is required and where exactly it matches your project or program description.[/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]Lastly if you arenÃâât successful ask for feedback. As tempting as it is to think of this as a personal rejection biting the bullet and asking for feedback can help you be a better grant writer in the future. [/FONT][/FONT] [/FONT]Red Tape Busters[/SIZE][/FONT] has a team of experienced and enthusiastic grant writers ready to help write a successful grant proposal. With [/FONT]grant writers Sydney[/SIZE][/FONT], grant writers Brisbane, [/FONT]grant writers Melbourne[/SIZE][/FONT] and grant writers nationwide, Red Tape Busters can help. [/FONT][/FONT]

What makes a good tender?

To be competitive and successful in winning a tender means ensuring the finalised tender proposal impresses the person or committee who will select the winning tender from all the bids or proposals that are submitted. There are several points the tender writer keeps in mind when [/SIZE][/FONT]tender writing[/FONT].[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Being specific[/SIZE][/FONT] A good tender writer knows that once you have read the invitation to tender document several times you can commence writing by detailing how your organisation or business definitively meets the requirements of the client. The [/SIZE][/FONT]tender writer[/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]defines what the specific needs of the client are through their thorough and systematic perusal of the invitation to tender document. [/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Using quantifiable and detailed examples [/SIZE][/FONT]in order to 'sell' your organisation to the client and convince them you are the best fit for their requirements. Substantiate your claims with evidence and strong examples. If possible, the tender writer will use quantitative data statements such as 'we have delivered 90% of our jobs within our allocated time frame'.[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Pricing matters[/SIZE][/FONT] Include the price you will charge for each product or service required as part of the tender document. Think about - are there any variables or conditions that might impact on the price? If so detail them and be clear and open. Include GST and any other pertinent taxes. [/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Provide a timeline[/SIZE][/FONT] When tender writing, provide a proposed schedule for completion and supply of the product or service including milestone dates and delivery dates.[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Address all selection criteria in detail[/SIZE][/FONT]. Be specific when highlighting the organisation capabilities. When tender writing ensure you have carefully read and understood the invitation to tender and identified the specific requirements and expectations of the client then prove without any doubt that the applying organisation can not only meet all those needs but can do it better and more successfully than competing bidders.[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Match your chosen referees to the client requirements[/SIZE][/FONT]. Your referees should be able to substantiate and corroborate that your claims of expertise and the examples you have provided in the proposal are accurate. It sounds simplistic but ensure you have sought permission to use them as referees and that they are happy to speak on your behalf. Also ensure you have provided the correct details for the referees.[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Details! Details! Details![/SIZE][/FONT] The experienced tender writer can confirm that small things can derail your application just as easily as something large; like overlooking an important requirement or attachment. Ensure you are following all the requirements from the invitation to tender document such as formatting, font size and type, page or word restrictions and most importantly submit ON TIME! Late submissions can be disqualified from reviewand evaluation immediately. [/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Editing and proof reading are important and necessary[/SIZE][/FONT]. Use spell and grammar checks, print your draft application and read through it. Does it read clearly? Does it flow? Ask someone else with appropriate skills to read through it for you too or do it as a team. Take any suggestions as constructive criticism from somebody who is looking at the application with a fresh eye. Quite often the [/SIZE][/FONT]tender writer[/SIZE][/FONT] has spent great amounts of time working on this proposal so a different perspective can add clarity or finesse to the final application.[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]Red Tape Busters has a team of professional [/SIZE][/FONT]Tender writers[/FONT] waiting to help. [/SIZE][/FONT]Tender writer [/SIZE][/FONT]Sydney[/SIZE][/FONT], [/SIZE][/FONT]tender writer Melbourne[/SIZE][/FONT], or wherever you require assistance, Red Tape Busters team of experienced tender writing consultants can help.[/SIZE][/FONT]

Common components of a grant submission

Grant writing is a competitive situation Ãââ if you want to be successful in winning a grant your grant application must stand out from all the other applicants. [/FONT][/FONT]Grant writing[/SIZE][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT]also requires the commitment of time to research and write the proposal and a good level of written communication skills to complete the process effectively. It is certainly not a simple or quick activity and requires certain knowledge and skills.[/FONT]A grant submission is usually reviewed by experts, so the [/FONT]grant writer[/SIZE][/FONT] needs to have done their research and provide information within the submission that demonstrates the ability of the applicant to utilise the grant funding effectively and efficiently.[/FONT][/FONT]The grant writer needs to be organised and methodical to cover all expected components in their grant submission. When grant writing the first and most important task is reading the grant program guidelines and creating for themselves a list of requirements that they will work through to write the grant submission.[/FONT][/FONT]Summary/Abstract [/SIZE][/FONT]This is usually written last and is a brief summary of the project and the need for the project; the people it will benefit; and a brief description of the goals and objectives of the project.[/FONT][/FONT]Introduction[/SIZE][/FONT]The grant writer will introduce the applicant/organisation, detail their experience and qualifications relevant to the funding area and give a brief overview of their values, mission statement etc.[/FONT][/FONT]Statement of need [/SIZE][/FONT]In this section of grant writing we describe the problem that funding is being sought for, the target group that requires assistance, how the applicant or organisation plans to solve the problem or fill the need.[/FONT][/FONT]Objectives [/SIZE][/FONT]Objectives for the application and the program should be clearly stated and written as SMART objectives Ãââ Specific. Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time sensitive.[/FONT][/FONT]Methods[/SIZE][/FONT]In this section of the grant submission the grant writer states how the applicant will achieve their objectives and answer the questions of who, when, where and how as they relate to the project in greater detail. They can provide research and evidence in this section to quantify their application.[/FONT][/FONT]Evaluation[/SIZE][/FONT]Here we detail how we will measure success Ãââ whether we will use quantitative or qualitative measurement. How will the applicant know they are achieving their stated objectives?[/FONT][/FONT]Future Funding[/SIZE][/FONT]Will the project require funding after the grant funding ceases? If so the grant writer needs to provide reassurance to the grant program fund overseers that the applicant has a plan in place to continue the program.[/FONT][/FONT]Budget[/SIZE][/FONT]A detailed budget is required to demonstrate exactly how the potential grant funding will be disbursed. In this section we cover any staff costs, expenses, equipment, resources and goods required to successfully achieve the goals of the project.[/FONT][/FONT]Management plan/key personnel[/SIZE][/FONT]Who will be responsible for managing the funding Ãââ what are their qualifications experience in managing budgets etc. What staff will be required to achieve the stated objectives.[/FONT][/FONT]Conclusion [/SIZE][/FONT]In this section the grant writer provides a brief summary restating why the funding is required and who will benefit[/FONT][/FONT]Appendices [/SIZE][/FONT]The appendices should include any additional documentation requested as part of the grant program guidelines.[/FONT] [/FONT]If the [/FONT]grant writer[/SIZE][/FONT] wants to be successful the grant submission needs to convince the funder that the funding from the grant will have a positive and measurable outcome for the community or target group. This requires time and effort and a professional approach.[/FONT]

Top 5 Tender Writing Tips

To put it simply a tender is the formal submission of an offer to supply goods or complete a specific job for a particular price. [/FONT]Tender writing[/SIZE][/FONT] involves some specific skills and following some simple tips can make the difference between success and failure at winning a tender.[/FONT]A [/FONT]tender writer[/SIZE][/FONT] will keep the following in mind while preparing a tender document. [/FONT][/FONT]1. The devil is in the details[/SIZE][/FONT]Ensure you read through the invitation to tender document carefully prior to commencing the tender writing process. Follow the expectations included to the letter Ãââ literally! They may request a certain font or size of font; word or page limits; or layout and order of the tender document and any deviating from these requirements could mean your tender is dismissed from consideration. Make notes, highlight important information or develop a checklist Ãââ find the method that best suits you as the tender writer. [/FONT][/FONT]2. Do your research[/SIZE][/FONT]Understand the client prior to commencing the tender writing process. Look at their website and peruse their values, philosophy, mission and vision. Find out about previous tenders they have welcomed. Who won those tenders and why?[/FONT][/FONT]3. Be client driven[/SIZE][/FONT]You have done your research now use that information in your tender writing process. Focus on how well your company meets the requirements and vision of the tender issuer. Make sure you are specific and provide them with examples and verifiable evidence that your company is exactly what they need.[/FONT][/FONT]Explain how you are a better ÃâËfitÃââ than other companies tendering. Highlight any similarities in company vision and values between your company and the client. Ensure you are addressing any questions or requests for information to the specific person identified in the invitation to tender document. Connect with them in a way that demonstrates your interest in, and enthusiasm for, what they value and believe in.[/FONT][/FONT]4. Have a pricing strategy[/SIZE][/FONT]When tender writing it is crucial to have read the tender pricing response table so that your tender directly addresses what the tender issuer requires. A tender that doesnÃâât meet the criteria will not proceed through the decision process.[/FONT][/FONT]Simplistically speaking it is essential that you check if the pricing is to be submitted including or excluding GST. Making an error here can lead to a financial loss for your company if they were to win the tender and the company didnÃâât factor GST into their pricing. [/FONT][/FONT]An experienced tender writer knows that it is important [/FONT]to explain your pricing schedule in detail in order to clarify your bid for the tender issuer and [/FONT]to highlight any value added components of your tender that will increase your competitiveness in the decision making process. [/FONT][/FONT]5. Professionalism leads to success[/SIZE][/FONT]When tender writing you should ensure that your tender response document is well organised and logical; covers all of the selection criteria; and contains all the requested documentation included in the invitation to tender document. [/FONT]The tender document should be neatly and professionally presented, with spell check utilized. Prior to lodging the tender document consider asking someone suitable to proofread the document.[/FONT][/FONT]Professionalism is also ensuring your tender is submitted on time Ãââ late submissions can be dismissed and rejected from consideration.[/FONT][/FONT]Tender writing is about attention to detail and remaining focused Ãââ if you are feeling overwhelmed by the process consider engaging a professional [/FONT]tender writer[/SIZE][/FONT] Sydney[/SIZE][/FONT] who will use their experience to ensure your tender response document is competitive and focused on success.[/FONT]

Top Ten Tips for Writing a Winning Tender Proposal

If you have no experience writing a tender proposal, the process can be quite daunting. Here are ten useful tips on how to write a tender proposal.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]1. Read the document thoroughly[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]It is vital to read all the tender documents, so you thoroughly understand what is required. You MUST understand what is being asked for, how you will be required by the tenderer to deliver the product or service, when and how the tender response is to be delivered and how your tender proposal will be measured.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]2. Plan to project manage the process[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Then write a detailed list of all the major requirements of the tender document and carefully assign the jobs to the right people and include deadlines. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]3. Use the templates or formats provided[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]If there is a template that you are requested to fill in, use it. It may be divided into sections and may include word or page limits or different formats, for example, costing may need to be excel. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]4. Focus on clarity[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]It is vital when you plan your tender proposal that you keep your response clear, logical and well organised as you are inviting a client to select your proposal over others. Clearly describe the all the benefits the buyer will obtain from your products or services.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]5. The importance of good writing[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Your tender proposal can create the impression that your company is professional and sets high standards. The quality of your writing needs to be extremely high. Spelling errors and poor grammar create an impression that you are disorganised, careless and even disrespectful. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]6. The importance of presentation[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Good presentation is just as important as good writing. Always aim to create a professional and business-like. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]7. Provide all the information required[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Provide everything that is asked for whether you think it relevant or not. If you cannot provide everything that is asked for, do not despair. Instead, provide something similar with an explanation as to why you are using it. It is not a good idea to leave a blank space or ignore the requirement.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]8. Address the selection criteria[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Ensure that you completely understand the selection criteria. Provide verifiable evidence that you fully meet the tendererÃââs selection criteria rather than simply saying that you do.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]9. Choose the right referees[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Use referees that will give you the most complimentary recommendations. Do not take a risk on customers or clients who have past gripes. Remember to get permission from your referees before adding them to your response. Inform them of the details of the request for tender so they can tailor their recommendations and comments to the tendererÃââs particular request.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]10. Submit your tender on time[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Late or incomplete tender responses are rarely viewed by tenderers. Therefore, you must give yourself enough time to get the tender documents completed and submitted.[/FONT][/FONT]Bonus Tip. Enlist the help of a Professional[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]A professional [/FONT]tender writer[/SIZE][/FONT] can help to elevate your tender response to an exceptional standard. Red Tape Busters are specialist tender writers with an outstanding level of skill, knowledge and professionalism. They specialise in working with businesses to win future changing contracts. Red Tape Busters can help with [/FONT]tender writing Sydney[/SIZE][/FONT], [/FONT]tender writing Melbourne[/SIZE][/FONT], tender writing Brisbane or tender writing Australia wide, and are waiting to help you now.[/FONT][/FONT]

A Basic Guide to Seeking out Grants

There is lots of money out there for not for profit sporting and community groups, tens of billions of dollars in grants funding is provided each year, and your organisation can get a share of it. The trick is to make sure you are organised and clear about what you want.[/FONT][/FONT]Grants are generally awarded for programs or projects. They are not given for your core funding, such as wages or administration costs unless they are part of the program or project.[/FONT][/FONT]Your organisation should avoid relying on grants alone for continued existence. This will put you into a precarious position. It will reduce your flexibility and increase your vulnerability if a previously reliable funding body or source sudden change of focus.[/FONT][/FONT]Types of grants[/SIZE][/FONT]Federal, state, and local government all distribute grants, many philanthropic and community foundations distribute grants, some other not-for-profit groups and organisations, as well as some businesses. Each of these funders have different drivers for their grant making so make sure you understand the funding bodies motivations. It will help you target your application.[/FONT]Available funds vary greatly from program to program and from funder to funder. The difference may vary from only a couple of hundred dollars to tens of millions.[/FONT][/FONT]Each funding body will differ in how they select who is eligible for their funding and what they will ask in return for their cash.[/FONT]Before accepting any money from a funding body, you must be certain you have the capacity to fulfill the terms of the grant contract. If a funding body believes you can deliver projects on time, as well as on budget and in the manner as they were approved, you will increase your chances of achieving a second, third or on-going grant. [/FONT][/FONT]Where to start[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Take time to think about your requirements before you start looking at what grants are available.[/FONT] [/FONT]Have a brainstorming session to make lists of all of the items your organisation would like to do or fix, if only it had the funding.[/FONT][/FONT]The brainstorming session should help identify:[/FONT]Problem / Issue / Need[/FONT]Strategy / Solution / Options[/FONT]Activity / Step / Stage[/FONT]Timeline[/FONT]Approx Cost[/FONT]Possible Funding Source[/FONT]Desired Outcome[/FONT]It is also recommend that you start the process of gathering all the things that you will to need to make the grant application. This will include your organisationÃââs details, mission statement, insurance certificates , etc.[/FONT] [/FONT]When [/FONT]grant writing[/FONT], it is good sense to keep both an online and hard copy version of your grant application. Each grant application you write must be tailored to the particular funding body you are applying to. Keep in mind while grant writing, that funding bodies can generally spot copy-and-paste applications and they donÃâât like them.[/FONT][/FONT]Where to look[/SIZE][/FONT]There are grant websites that your organisation can subscribe to, as well as doing google searches. Most of the grant websites have a comprehensive list of all the grants available in Australia that will fit your organisationÃââs profile and search preferences. They may also entitle you to grant alerts and access to grant search tools so you can search databases any time you choose. [/FONT][/FONT]Then start applying![/SIZE][/FONT]If in doubt, get help. Help is always available. Red Tape Busters has a team of professional[/FONT] [/FONT]grant writers[/FONT] waiting to partner with you and your organisation to get grant funding. With grant writers Brisbane,[/FONT] [/FONT]grant writers Melbourne[/FONT], [/FONT]grant writers Sydney[/FONT] or grant writers anywhere across our nation, Red Tape Busters are here to help and waiting for your call.[/FONT]

Tender Writing - Understanding the process

Knowing the tendering system will make it work for you. It is important to fully understand tender requests, tenders in contract law, buyers and suppliers and the tendering process, gives you a much greater chance of a winning tender contract.[/FONT][/FONT]Tenders, Buyers and Suppliers[/SIZE][/FONT]A tender is best described as a formal offer put forward to perform work in return for an agreed payment,[/FONT] [/FONT]via a schedule of rates. This work could include the supply of services or goods or both. Time to understand the tender process and what buyers expects. [/FONT]Buyers are the people looking for tender responses from businesses who can do the required work. They will use a Request for Tender (RFT) to accomplish this. Suppliers are the businesses or individuals that carry out the work for the buyers. Suppliers offer services, goods or both.[/FONT][/FONT]The competitive process of tendering[/SIZE][/FONT]Buyers will seek responses for tenders from numerous suppliers which creates a competitive process. Buyers will evaluate and then accept the tender response they believe best meets their needs as well as offering the best value for money. The tender with the lowest price will not necessarily be the winning bid.[/FONT][/FONT]Each tender is regulated by its own conditions and rules which are referred to as the Conditions of Tender.[/FONT]When councils or government 'put out a tender', the government is asking for offers to do required work on a contract basis. Once a tender is accepted by the government, it is binding to both the successful tenderer and the government.[/FONT][/FONT]Type of tender requests[/SIZE][/FONT]Tender requests can come in many forms and include the following:[/FONT]Approach to Market (ATM)[/FONT]Request for Tender (RFT)[/FONT]Invitation to Offer (ITO)[/FONT]Request for Proposals (RFP)[/FONT]Request for Quote (RFQ)[/FONT]Invitation to Respond (ITR)[/FONT][/FONT]What is the Difference?[/SIZE][/FONT]All these requests share similar characteristics even though the names are different. [/FONT][/FONT]What is Included?[/SIZE][/FONT]They generally will include details of the buyer's requirements. They will request evidence about the supplier's capability, experience and capacity to do the job. They will typically request a fixed price or schedule of rates. More than one supplier will be invited to tender. There will always be a firm cut off time and date for responding to the tender. There will be a pre-determined criteria the responses are evaluated on. A contract will then be awarded to the successful supplier.[/FONT][/FONT]Tenders in Contract Law[/SIZE][/FONT]If you make a bid via a tender and that offer is successful and then accepted, you have a legally enforceable contract as a result of that agreement. The tender is not a contract in itself but will result in a contract when it is accepted. The submitted tender response forms part of the contract. So does the tender request and all other communication and documentation between you and the buyer.[/FONT][/FONT]Can a Professional Tender Writer help? [/SIZE][/FONT]Yes, a professional [/FONT]tender writer[/SIZE][/FONT] understands the tendering process and can help you navigate it. Red Tape Busters has a team of tender writers Australia wide, ready to help. [/FONT]Tender writer [/SIZE][/FONT]Sydney[/SIZE][/FONT] [/FONT]to [/FONT]Tender Writer [/SIZE][/FONT]Melbourne[/SIZE][/FONT], tender writer Qld to tender writer WA, Red Tape Busters have all your [/FONT]tender writing[/SIZE][/FONT] needs covered. [/FONT]

What is the Importance of Grant Writing?

Successful management within a not for profit community or sporting organisation requires you to possess many professional experiences, traits and skills. These will include the ability to effectively plan and then acquire funding for your organisationÃââs projects. Many community and sporting organisations depend on outside grant funding from funding bodies. [/FONT]Grant writing[/FONT] for your organisation is a skill that involves time, hard work and practice. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]FUNDING YOUR ORGANISAT[/SIZE][/FONT]I[/SIZE][/FONT]ON THROUGH GRANT WRITING[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]A successful grant application commences with research into the size and types of grants available to you. Many grants will fund a specific program or project within a fixed time frame. You may also find grants available to fund a regular operational budget. Thorough research should lead you to at least one or more potential opportunity to which your organisation can submit grant applications.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]DEVELOPING YOUR MANAGEMENT SKILLS THROUGH GRANT WRITING[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Your organisationÃââs overall management will improve as a direct result of your grant writing skills improving. Which makes for a great incentive to focus on improving those skills. Funding bodies are looking to provide support to organisations that they are confident can succeed. Your grant application should reflect a high level of planning, organisation, budgeting and importance of reaching specific goals.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]Your management team will need to sharpen their skills in order for your grant application to meet the expectations of the funding body to earn their confidence. Writing each section of your grant application, such as the cover letter, project details, description of your organisation, and endorsement letters from community partners, gives you an invaluable opportunity to develop assorted skills, which will benefit your professional career.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]ACHIEVING LONG-TERM GOALS THROUGH GRANT APPLICATIONS[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Writing grant applications allows your organisation to focus on developing long-term goals. Many grant applications require you to specify these long-term objectives of your project or your overall organisation. Through the grant writing process, you can refine and develop those goals with a sharper focus on the projects and tasks required to succeed.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]Grant writing gives organisationÃââs managers an opportunity to develop their perseverance and determination. The grants process can require months of time, effort and waiting. You may also need to apply a number of times to more than one funding body before obtaining the funding you seek.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]INVOLINE OTHERS IN YOUR CAUSE[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]The grant writing process allows outside funding bodies to become involved in your organisationÃââs cause. Grant writing gives you an invaluable opportunity to tell your organisationÃââs story. As your grant writing spreads the message of your organisationÃââs mission, you can also develop vital management skills, which in turn will improve your organisationÃââs chances at success.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]You are not in it alone. A professional and experienced [/FONT]grant writer[/FONT] will bring unequalled expertise to your organisation and your cause. The team at Red Tape Busters are enthusiastic and will work with you to produce a high-quality grant proposal. [/FONT]Grant writer Sydney[/FONT], [/FONT]grant writer Melbourne[/FONT], grant writer NT, or wherever your needs arise, Red Tape Busters are ready to help you succeed. [/FONT][/FONT]

Tender Writing - What are the Benefits of Tendering?

Tender writing[/SIZE][/FONT] is the most common way for the companies to procure goods and services and award contracts. Companies will also use the tendering process to get a lower price and to keep current suppliers motivated. [/FONT][/FONT]Benefits of tendering[/SIZE][/FONT]Some of the key benefits of the tender writing process are:[/FONT]No favouritism:[/SIZE][/FONT] Tender responses are evaluated on certain criteria, which may include price, value for money and quality. As most tender applications are opened and then evaluated in a public process, there remains very little room for favouritism.[/FONT][/FONT]Value for Money[/SIZE][/FONT]: Tender writing allows you to have a critical and honest look at your business to provide the tendering company the best value for money. The tendering company can select from a wide range of potential suppliers to find the one who can produce the best quality product or service for the lowest price. [/FONT][/FONT]Encourages Competition:[/SIZE][/FONT] The process of tendering helps stimulate a competitive market. This then allows you to get to know your competitors strengths and weaknesses while showing you what you need to do to improve your chances and to improve quality and lower expenses. Competition also encourages[/FONT] [/FONT]innovation and new ideas.[/FONT][/FONT]Easier Entry[/SIZE][/FONT]: The tendering process is an easier and simpler way for new firms and businesses to establish themselves in the market or in a particular industry. Contracts awarded through tenders are chosen on the basis of a selection criteria which is predetermined. This allows a firm that is new to the market, equal chance of winning a lucrative and prestigious contract.[/FONT][/FONT]Commitment:[/SIZE][/FONT] By investing the time, effort and valuable resources necessary into your tender writing to respond to a tender, you are demonstrating your commitment to the tendering company. Quality tender writing and producing a tender proposal of an extremely high standard that has every requirement addressed, evidences your attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond which a tendering company will find desirable.[/FONT][/FONT]You need to think long and hard before diving into the tender writing and tendering process. Although there are definite advantages to tendering, there are also disadvantages. You will need to make important decisions when looking at the supply of goods or services to an organisation.A key considerations is of tendering is appropriate for your business at this point in time. If it is appropriate for your business to tender now, then do not underestimate the amount of time, resource, and industry knowledge it will take to produce a contract winning tender proposal. Once you have established yourself within the tender writing process, it will pave the way for a successful business.[/FONT][/FONT]You can always consider enlisting the talents of a professional [/FONT]tender writer[/SIZE][/FONT]. An experienced tender writer is a worthwhile investment as you are free to deal with the day to day tasks within your business while the tender writer gets to work. Red Tape Busters has a friendly and hard-working team of tender writers ready to help you win that contract. [/FONT]Tender writer Melbourne[/SIZE][/FONT], tender writer Brisbane, [/FONT]tender writer [/SIZE][/FONT]Sydney[/SIZE][/FONT] [/FONT]and everywhere in between, Red Tape Busters are waiting for you.[/FONT]

Becoming a Successful Tender Bidder

Whether you are applying for a local or an international tender, it is vital for you to match the specifications expected by the buyer in order to acquire the contract and to put across your points clearly. Here are some tips which you can use as a guide when writing your tender response:1. You must read and thoroughly understand every specifications and details of the tender invitation. I...

Free money. How to Write a Winning Grant Application

There is free money for your not for profit organisation or community group, but you need to know how to ask for it. Grants are generally given to not for profit organisations for programs, projects and/or services that would benefit the community or the general public. Whether you are seeking private or government funding, your grant application needs to clearly state your objectives, set forth a plan and provide a realistic budget.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]The following are eight tips on how to write a winning grant application.[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]1. Do not Chase the Money[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Ensure your organisationÃââs mission and purpose matches closely with the funding body's mission and purpose. Only apply for grant funding that looks like it has been specifically written for your organisation. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]2. Prepare to Do Extensive Groundwork[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Identifying organisations that give grant funding to not for profit, sporting or community groups requires substantial time, effort and research. A good place to start is with funding bodies that have previously funded services or projects for groups like yours. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]3. Determine Your Approach[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Once you have identified potential funding bodies, next step is to determine how you are going to approach them. If you are able, try and make personal contact with the funding body and cultivate a relationship by utilising e-mail, telephone, office visit and/or a letter of inquiry. Do not fall into the trap of writing the proposal first and then looking for funding bodies. Your grant proposal should be written specifically for what that funding body is seeking.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]4. Get to Know the Funding Body[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Get to know potential funding bodies through copies of their annual reports and analysing their website. Familiarise yourself with the buzz words they use. One idea is to incorporate that funding bodyÃââs colours into the graphics and fonts that you use when you write your grant proposal. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]5. Do Whatever the Request for Proposal Says[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]It is vitally important to follow the requirements of the funding application to the letter. Your request for proposal (RFP) document is your guide for what to and what not to include in your grant application. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]6. Clearly State Measurable Objectives[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]Generally, your grant proposal will have an introduction, including the amount requested, then a description and a brief history of your group and its projects and programs. Your grant proposal should also clearly describe the anticipated and the immediate results, the proposed implementation, all staff or key personnel, a concise budget, your methodology, all measurable benchmarks, your timetable and measurable objectives. Each measurable objective should have a subject, action, location, and timeframe.[/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]7. Define How You Will Spend the Money[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]The funding body giving you the money must be sure you know how to spend it. Prove you know by including an anticipated budget break down. An accountant is invaluable here. [/FONT][/FONT][/FONT]8. Enlist a Professional Grant Writer[/SIZE][/FONT][/SIZE][/FONT]A professional [/FONT]Grant writer[/SIZE][/FONT] is well worth the investment for your not for profit, community or sporting organisation. A professional grant writer offers experience and expertise in writing grant winning proposals. Red Tape Busters has a team of grant writers ready to work with you to produce a quality, high standard grant proposal. [/FONT]Grant writing Sydney[/SIZE][/FONT], [/FONT]grant writing Melbourne[/SIZE][/FONT] and grant writing Australia wide, [/FONT]Red Tape Busters[/SIZE][/FONT] can help. [/FONT][/FONT]

What Makes A Great Tender Cover Letter?

An effective and well written cover letter will give you a much-needed edge over your competition when submitting a tender application.A poor cover letter can contribute to your tender being overlooked and being unsuccessful.[/SIZE][/FONT][/FONT]Your cover letter is your greatest opportunity to highlight why the tender should be awarded to your company over your competitors. The cover letter accomplishes this by demonstrating your companyÃââs relevant recent wins and prove to the reader that you are the ideal fit for the project.[/FONT][/FONT]So, what does a great tender cover letter look like? Firstly, donÃâât forget the standard items, these include the date, your businessÃââ name, your name and title, a signature block and its address.[/FONT][/FONT]Effective cover letters will also include:[/SIZE][/FONT]A clear and concise introduction that has one or two paragraphs that outline your companyÃââs qualifications and your ability to meet the clientÃââs requirements. Use persuasive language to offer the reader a unique reason why your company should be awarded with the project. Personalise each cover letter to each tender bid. Your companyÃââs message needs to be tailored for each new project. Using a template to write applications for multiple tenders is not looked upon favourably. [/FONT]A very clear statement that your tender submission has conformed to all the requirements of the tender.[/FONT]An outline of the advantages that you offer to the client. Highlight your distinctiveness and uniqueness. Do not get carried away with complicated language or technical jargon that means nothing to the reader. Ensure you include any competitive pricing elements, outstanding value-added services or exceptional aspects of customer service.[/FONT]A clear declaration that you are open to a partnership approach.[/FONT]An outline of your companyÃââs value and key benefits. [/FONT][/FONT]Your cover letter does not need to be more than one or two pages long. Any longer and it runs the risk of the reader losing interest. Your cover letter needs to invite the reader to continue. During the [/FONT]tender writing[/FONT] process, the cover letter, along with the Executive Summary, can be the most challenging part. It can be very challenging to be concise with your cover letter, while delivering the tenderÃââs expected information and strategic planning in one or two pages.[/FONT][/FONT]It is always advisable to get someone who is not involved in the process to proofread your cover letter. Your tender application needs to be easy to read and make sense. Someone who has no previous knowledge or understanding of your business and its capabilities and expertise is in the perfect position to give you honest feedback.[/FONT][/FONT]The final step, and by far the most forgotten step is ensuring you sign your cover letter before submitting it.[/FONT][/FONT]It is worth remembering that help is always at hand. Red Tape Busters has a team of professional and enthusiastic tender writers, specialising in writing contract winning tenders. Red Tape Busters can assist in all or any aspects of your tender. Whether you require a [/FONT]tender writer [/FONT]Sydney[/FONT], [/FONT]tender writer [/FONT]Melbourne[/FONT] or tender writer anywhere across Australia, Red Tape BusterÃââs team can help. [/FONT]

How to Make Your Grant Application Stand Out

With competition for grants at an all-time high, itÃââs important that your grant applications hit the mark every time. In fact, you should assume that every time you submit a grant, you are competing with hundreds of other organisations and/or individuals for the same money.Is it any wonder that many proposals get shelved without a second look?However, there are certain things that you, as a grant writer, can do to make your grant application stand out.Here are our top tips:NUMBER 1:SHOW THAT YOU CARE ABOUT THE FUNDING BODYFunding bodies can tell when organisations are looking for a cash grab.Therefore, the first question you ask, and the question that drives the initial stages of your grant application, should be, ÃâÅWhat does the funder want?ÃâIn grant application writing, itÃââs vital to know what the funder cares about, their purpose, mission, and objectives. Without a full and profound understanding for why they exist and how they want to invest their money, your proposal is likely to miss the target.NUMBER 2:MAKE THE FUNDER CARE ABOUT YOUOnce you understand what the funding body cares about, demonstrate why your organisation is like-minded.Good grant application writers explain how funding their project will be mutually beneficial because it will achieve the mission an objectives of both their organisation and the funding body. Above all, the best way to make a funder care about what you are doing is to clearly demonstrate to them that without your program, your community suffers. Grant application writers need to show them the gaps, the issues, and the problems in the community and help them understand how their solution is one that will make a difference in solving the problem. Skillful grant writers paint a picture of a problem or a need that stirs a passionate discontent in the grant reviewer that makes them want to open their wallet and give.NUMBER 3: SHOW THE FUNDER THE DIFFERENCE THEY COULD MAKEFinally, tell a vivid story about how the world will be better or different because your organisation received this grant. Make sure the grant application reviewer can picture it in their mind. Therefore, it must be achievable, measurable and desirable.Also, as a grant application writer, you need evaluation and assessment measurements to ensure that your goals are achieved and the reassure the funding body that you will use their money wisely.NUMBER 4:DARE TO BE DIFFERENTFunding Bodies receive hundreds of grant applications and you can bet that many of them offer the same kind of solutions to the same kind of problems.If you want to stand out, then think outside the square.Funders are looking for innovation.Funders prefer to try something new than to constantly fund the old.Shoe the funding body that your solution is distinct, that itÃââs unlike anything they have seen before.NUMBER 6: GET PROFESSIONAL HELPIf youÃââre a grant writer, consider getting some professional help.Red Tape Busters are specialist in grant and tender writing and can help your organisation or business win grant funding or achieve successes with tenders. Visit http://www.redtapebusters.com/for more information. We are specialists in providing the following services:ÃâÂLobbying;ÃâÂTender Writing;ÃâÂGrant Writing;ÃâÂResumes/Job Applications;ÃâÂOrganisational/Business Development.Please also ÃâÅfriendÃâ or ÃâÅlikeÃâ us on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/RedTapeBustersShaneBowering, follow us on Twitter Ãââ Red Tape Busters or check us out on YouTube just search for Red Tape Busters.