Brainstorm appropriate topics. Contact entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations or government agencies to ask if they need help with any business projects. Their understanding of specific problems can help direct you towards useful projects and provide expertise in research.
Define your objectives, goals and steps clearly. Schools may require you to write the proposal before your project will be considered for credit, so run the idea by your course instructor and/or the program director before you begin writing. Keep in constant contact with them to receive the best advice.
Plan your time carefully. Include a realistic time frame in your proposal. Your commitment just for the project may range from 100 to 500 hours. Check your school's requirements and ask for advice in time-saving techniques. Keep a log of your time and start the proposal (and project) early.
Include the proper sections in your paper. Depending on your school's guidelines, you may need to include all or some of these sections:
1. Cover Page
2. Abstract --- include a short project description, community benefits and desired outcomes (150 to 200 words maximum)
3. Table of Contents
4. Section 1 (Extended Abstract)
a. Problem(s)
b. Solution
c. Desired outcome(s)
d. Assumptions
e. Limitations
f. Company contact information
g. Name(s) and biography of evaluator(s)
5. Section 2 --- Justification. Explain why your project is important and what the project will accomplish.
6. Section 3 --- Procedures. Include a detailed list and explanation of the time frame and tasks.
7. Section 4 --- Evaluation. List the criteria your project will be judged by and how it will be applied.
8. References.
Follow correct writing guidelines for business. Writing classes are usually mandatory at business school, so pull out your notes and make sure your style conforms. Read the paper aloud to catch errors. Edit the proposal and ask several people to read over it as well.