text: how do  one write a winning proposal for grant seeking?   the first rule when responding to an rfp is to read it completely and thoroughly and make sure you answer every question the way they want and include all the documentation and supporting letters they need.  basically, is you don't follow the rules, you will immediately be eliminated  without further consideration.  as for winning a grant, well, they are competitive.  you simply have to be better than all the rest.  propose a higher level of services at a lower cost and you should win.  as for hiring a grant writer, that is a great idea, but there aren't many good, competent grant writers out there, and they are very expensive.  also, chances are any good grant writer has several other clients competing for the same grants and this, i feel, creates a conflict of interest for them.  we always try to keep it in-house.  final note: if possible, hand deliver the proposal and get a time stamped receipt.  otherwise, send it at least a few days before the deadline via fedex, or some other carrier that offers proof of delivery.