The Proposal Cover Letter

A How-To Guide

A proposal cover letter is the first thing a donor will see when reviewing your submission requesting project funding – do not underestimate its power and importance! Since it is the first thing a donor sees when making their decision, it is essential you get it right, that you quickly, clearly and succinctly make yourself stand out. It can be difficult to present your project concisely, to know what to include and what to leave out, and how to stand out from the countless others vying for the same donor’s attention. This course speaks to all of these challenges to help you make a good impression and progress to the next stage and increase your chances of getting funding.

Our expert Erik Detiger will share the secrets of creating a specific and enticing cover letter that includes everything they need to get a donor's attention – because that is what this is all about!

What will you learn from this course?

  • The purpose and importance of a cover letter
  • What to include in a cover letter and what to leave out
  • Making a cover letter stand out and get the donor’s attention

The course also includes a sample cover letter and template that you can use as a starting point which just needs to be adjusted to the specific details of your project.

Who should take the course?

  • NGO managers and executive directors
  • Fundraising and development professionals for local and international NGOs
  • Non-profit consultants and consulting firms
  • Fundraisers for local NGOs and small organizations
  • Fundraisers for a cause close to their heart
  • Students

Philantropia is an Approved Provider for Continuing Education in Fundraising. Full participation in “The Proposal Cover Letter” is applicable for 1.5 points in Category 1. B – Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification. CFRE is an independent certification for fundraising professionals that aims to set standards in philanthropy through a valid and reliable certification process for fundraising professionals.

Participation in this program may assist you in learning or reviewing concepts covered on the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) examination as detailed on the Test Content Outline provided by CFRE International. CFRE International does not sponsor or endorse any educational programs and the (educational program title) was not developed in conjunction with CFRE International.



Your Instructor


Erik Detiger
Erik Detiger

Hello! My name is Erik Detiger and I am a professional with over two decades of experience working in the field of international philanthropy and fundraising. As a highly successful international project manager and fundraising professional, I have raised over US$200 million for numerous international projects from a wide variety of government agencies, foundations, and institutions. I am the founder of Philantropia - an independent consultancy based in New York specialized in international fundraising and philanthropy and am excited to share my knowledge with you on this platform.


Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.

What are you waiting for? Join us today!

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