Conclusion

Q&C letters are important both for what they say and for what they might imply. They specifically convey to grantseekers what must be done to make their initial proposals fundable, which is obviously a matter of real importance. They also have an intangible but nonetheless profound impact on the applicant's expectations, often inflating them unrealistically but sometimes deflating them unduly.

In these communications, as in meetings, the same elements are of vital importance: clear communications, management of expectations, and careful documentation of activities. These principles are even more important with Q&Cs, however, for the Q&C comes later in the process, and to the grantseeker, each step takes on a greater significance as time goes by. For you, the Q&C is the essential information-gathering and decision-making tool that separates the grantees from the wanna-be's. Q&Cs must be written carefully, thoughtfully, and well, or they do more harm than good.