Have a game-changing project idea but need a green light from a funder, partner, or stakeholder? Don’t wait to submit a full proposal just yet. Start with a Letter of Interest.
A letter of interest for a project is your chance to introduce yourself, share your idea, and get invited to submit a full proposal.
But it’s also where many people get stuck.
What should you include?
How long should it be?
What tone works best?
And how do you make it stand out from the pile?
In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about writing a compelling letter of interest for a project, complete with templates, real examples and insider tips that can turn your letter into an open door.
What Is a Letter of Interest for a Project?
A letter of interest (LOI) is a brief, formal letter used to express interest in pursuing a specific opportunity—usually before submitting a full proposal or application.
When is a Letter of Interest Used?
- To inquire about grant funding before submitting a full proposal
- To pitch a partnership or collaboration
- When responding to an RFP (Request for Proposal) that asks for an LOI
- To show intent for participation in a project, event, or contract
The LOI is a courtesy and strategy tool—it saves both your time and the recipient’s, while giving them a preview of your concept and value.
Key Elements of a Winning Letter of Interest
Most letters of interest are one page (about 3–4 paragraphs), but every word must pull its weight.
Here’s what it should include:
1. Introduction: Who You Are and Why You’re Writing
- Your name and organization
- A clear, one-sentence summary of what you’re proposing
- The specific program, fund, or opportunity you’re responding to
Example:
“I’m writing on behalf of Faith Builders Network, a nonprofit organization committed to youth workforce development, to express our interest in the Empower Youth Futures Grant.”
2. The Project: What You Plan to Do
- Describe the project clearly and briefly
- Who it serves and how
- The results or outcomes you expect
- Timeline and scope
Example:
“Our ‘Train Up’ program provides job-readiness training to 250 at-risk teens annually, connecting them with internships and mentors over a 12-month period.”
3. The Ask: What You’re Requesting
- The amount of funding (if applicable)
- What the funding will cover
- A soft pitch for support, not a hard sell
Example:
“We are seeking $25,000 in support to expand the program to an additional two high schools in underserved communities.”
4. Closing: Why You’re a Good Fit and What Comes Next
- Brief statement of your qualifications
- Appreciation for their time
- Offer to provide more details or a full proposal
Example:
“Thank you for considering our project. We’d be honored to submit a full proposal and provide additional details at your convenience.”
Letter of Interest Template for a Project
Here’s a simple, high-impact template you can adapt for any project:
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Organization Name]
[Address]
[Email] | [Phone]
[Date]
[Funder or Recipient Name]
[Title]
[Organization Name]
[Address]
Dear [Funder’s Name or “Grants Committee”],
I am writing to express [our/my] interest in [program name, partnership, or funding opportunity]. [Organization name] is a [brief description of your organization], and we are excited to propose [brief description of the project or idea].
Our project, [project name], aims to [impact or goal], focusing on [target population or issue]. With a team of [mention expertise or partnerships], we believe this initiative will [expected result or community benefit].
We are seeking [amount] in funding to support [list 1–3 budget areas]. These funds will allow us to [expand, enhance, sustain] our efforts in [location or population].
We would welcome the opportunity to submit a full proposal and share more about our vision. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Title]
[Organization]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a great project idea can be overlooked if your LOI isn’t up to par. Here’s what to steer clear of:
Too long or too vague
Keep it focused—one page is ideal.
No clear ask
Don’t forget to specify what you’re requesting.
No audience alignment
Make sure your project fits the funder’s mission and priorities.
Generic or copy-pasted content
Customize your letter for each opportunity.
No follow-up
Set a reminder to follow up in 1–2 weeks.
Real Example: Letter of Interest for a Youth Project
Subject: Letter of Interest – NextGen Youth Innovation Lab
Dear Program Officer,
On behalf of Rise Up Initiatives, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping underserved youth with 21st-century skills, I’m writing to express our interest in the Innovation for Impact Grant. Our proposal, the NextGen Youth Innovation Lab, will serve 300 teens in rural Texas through coding bootcamps, STEM workshops, and entrepreneurship coaching.
With a successful pilot funded by the United Way, we saw a 40% increase in digital literacy and career readiness among participants. We are requesting $50,000 to replicate the model in three additional counties.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would welcome the chance to submit a full proposal and provide supporting materials.
Warm regards,
Tasha Daniels
Executive Director, Rise Up Initiatives
Bonus Tips: Make Your Letter Stand Out
Use the funder’s language (mirror keywords from their website)
Add a statistic or measurable impact statement
Include a link to a short video or infographic if allowed
Mention any existing relationship or referral
Use a professional, readable layout
Tools That Help You Write Better Letters of Interest
When you join the Grant Writing Academy, you’ll get access to:
- LOI templates for different funders
- Editable grant calendars to track due dates
- Funded examples from successful applicants
- Proposal prep checklists
- Video walkthroughs of writing each section
Whether you’re writing for your nonprofit, school, ministry, or business—we give you the roadmap.
Become a Founding Member of Grant Writing Academy
If you want to skip the guesswork and start submitting powerful LOIs and proposals that actually win funding, now’s the time to join us.
Our Founding Members receive:
- LIVE monthly trainings on grant writing
- Step-by-step proposal writing guides
- Editable templates (LOIs, budgets, proposals)
- One-on-one reviews for your LOI or full proposal
- Access to our private community of purpose-driven professionals
Click here to join as a Founding Member
Let’s turn your passion into funded impact!
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Whether you’re launching a youth program, renovating a community center, or building something bold for your nonprofit, everything starts with a letter—a Letter of Interest that opens the door.
Use this guide, follow the templates, and stay focused on clarity, impact, and alignment.
And if you’re ready to go from good to grant-winning—we’re here to help.
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Let’s get your next letter the YES it deserves.
