Some foundations require an LOI, otherwise known as "Letter of Inquiry," or sometimes, "Letter of Intent." This may also be referred to as a preliminary proposal. LOIs are typically much shorter than a proposal, often two or three pages. If the information is not readily available on the foundation website, ask the program officer what should be covered in the LOI. Keep it brief and to-the-point.
Online Resources:
Letter of Inquiry description
Sample LOI
Book Recommendations:
The Foundation Center's Guide to Winning Proposals
Grant Proposal Makeover: Transform Your Request from No to Yes by Cheryl A Clarke & Susan P. Fox
