What should an RFP ideally provide to potential grant recipients?

An ideal Request for Proposals (RFP) should provide detailed project expectations and evaluation criteria because this clarity enables potential grant recipients to understand the goals of the funding entity and tailor their proposals accordingly. Providing explicit expectations helps ensure that applicants know what is needed, including the specific objectives, target populations, and desired outcomes.

Furthermore, having clear evaluation criteria allows potential recipients to gauge how their proposals will be assessed, helping them to address the funder's priorities and increase their chances of receiving the grant. This structured approach promotes transparency in the selection process and helps the funder to identify the best-fit projects efficiently.

While elements like budget outlines, networking opportunities, and timelines can be beneficial, they do not replace the critical need for clear project expectations and evaluation criteria. Without a well-defined scope and set of standards for successful proposals, potential grant recipients may struggle to align their objectives with those of the funding agency.