Kern.org - Thursday, May 17, 2012

Budget Narrative


This section has the detailed budget proposal for a project. How specific you can make your budget will vary depending upon the project and the requirements of the funding sources. A complete-as-possible, well thought out budget reinforces your credibility. The estimated expenses in the budget should build on the goals and desired outcomes in the proposal. A well-prepared budget is reasonable and demonstrates that the funds being asked for will be used wisely. The budget should be as concrete and specific as possible in its estimates, be realistic, to estimate costs accurately, and not to underestimate staff time.

The budget proposal usually separates the administrative from operational costs. Grant making agencies (including state and federal funding sources) have very different formats for the budget proposal. Some provide their own budget forms while others require specific formats. In the budget proposal, you must include all projected expenses for the proposed project.

Budget Narrative Template Example