By: Jessica Stewart, Client Relations Manager
I've been asked this question quite a bit lately, so today's OARS proposal tip focuses on letters.
Letters of commitment vs. letters of support. What are the differences between the two?
📄 The letter of commitment is required for a complete application.
🖊 This letter focuses on the commitment of the applicant organization
📄 The OARS FOA has specific language that must be used to discuss the commitment of the matching funding (check pg 8 of the OARS FOA for details)
🖊 The letter may also discuss any commitment of resources - facilities, equipment, expertise - to the project.
📄 A letter of commitment must be included from the application organization and any subcontracted entities.
👏🏻 A letter of support is not required for a complete application, but highly encouraged.
📄 Letters of support are typically from third parties - potential end users, customers, or others in the industry who can speak to the innovativeness and need for the project/product proposed.
👏🏻 You may include up to three letters of support with the application.
📄 When asking for a letter of support, it's often best to have a template with basic information you can provide for the letter writer to complete and return to you.
👏🏻 Letters should be on the supporter's letterhead and specific to the project proposed.
