How to write a strong application
Strong Idea Support and BALSA Grant applications are built on a good idea, and explain the importance and feasibility of the idea in a clear and convincing way.
When you apply, we ask you to describe the idea, passion, and plan for your business. We want you to tell us what you want to do, why it is important, how you’ll do it, and why you’re the best person or team to do so.
Here are suggestions about what to include:
Idea: Describe your idea. What is the problem/need being addressed? What is the solution? Why is this problem important? A good idea combines a well-described urgent need with a solution that fixes it.
Passion: Why are you (or your team) right for the job? Share your experiences about finding your business idea, leading a team, taking initiative, and making an idea happen. Describe steps you took in the Entrepreneur’s Roadmap is a good way to demonstrate commitment and passion.
Plan: What is your plan for success? What are your 3, 6, 12 month milestones and budget? Who are your customers and how will you reach them? Identify potential mentors, organizations, and resources you can take advantage of, as well as competitors and barriers to success. If this is a for-profit venture, make the case that you will be profitable.
Important: We will not review applications which are outside of the word limits described in the application (200-300 words or 1300 - 1800 characters per section).
