E.B. Howard Consulting was founded in 2013 with the idea that proposal preparation and independent/external evaluation services can be useful, effective, efficient, and, most importantly, affordable. We have set out to provide high-quality, affordable services by offering various pricing and service options from the start.
Organizations that choose to work with us are involved every step of the way. From the initial crafting of a Funding Menu through the Proposal Preparation process and during the Evaluation process, it truly is a collaborative, hands-on approach. These organizations also have a common goal to develop, fund, and implement innovative STEM-based solutions to various social, cultural, or environmental issues.
We pride ourselves on providing high-quality proposals that are given deep consideration by reviewers and that are ultimately funded. Our team has secured well over $65M+ in non-dilutive funding sources, where awards range from $50,000 to $5,000,000 per project. You can see some of the more notable of our successes HERE.
We are happy to have a conversation about our services and pricing. Schedule a one-on-one consult call with us today HERE. We have customizable packages and service options for all budget needs. Listed below are some of our recommendations & guidelines for a successful experience with us.
Proposal Preparation FAQs
Why should I use your firm?
The significant advantage is Expertise.
We provide you with a team with over 25 years of combined experience winning and completing a variety of local, state, and federally funded proposals and projects.
How do I start working with you?
Schedule a consult call with us to learn more about our services. Book a Meeting Here
Are you willing to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA)?
Yes! We expect it. We understand the need to protect your business’ Intellectual Property (IP) and Proprietary Information (PI). We are more than happy to sign an NDA prior to receiving any documentation from you that may contain IP or PI. If you do not have an NDA, then we can provide one free of charge for you to sign.
Are there hidden costs?
NO. All prices are quoted as a flat fee.
We ask for a deposit of 50% of the invoice. The deposit is due at signing, and the remaining amount is due at the end of the services agreement unless otherwise noted in the services agreement. The deposit is non-refundable. EBHC accepts all major credit cards and direct bank transfers.
Do you work on contingency payment or commission payment?
We DO NOT work on a contingency basis. We charge a flat fee for services.
We uphold the ethics of the Grant Professional Association (GPA), the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), and the American Evaluation Association (AEA), and we follow Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
We follow the federal government's Uniform Guidance regulations §200.209.
How soon should I start working with you?
Don’t wait. Timing is everything. We don’t want to race or scramble to the deadline. We don't want you to race or scramble, either.
We do not take on a proposal project less than 30 calendar days from the deadline. No Exception.
We strongly recommend engaging with us at least 45 days from the deadline.
We like to be done with all proposal work 7 calendar days in advance of the deadline. This 7 calendar day window allows for uploading into the platform and for the client to submit the proposal at least 48 hours in advance of the deadline.
How long does it take to complete a proposal?
It depends on the proposal. Typically 3 weeks. But keep in mind - We do not take on a proposal project less than 30 calendar days from the deadline. No Exception.
We strongly recommend engaging with us at least 45 days from the deadline.
We like to be done with all proposal work 7 calendar days in advance of the deadline. This 7 calendar day window allows for uploading into the platform and for the client to submit the proposal at least 48 hours in advance of the deadline.
Can you guarantee or promise that we will be funded?
We CAN NOT imply, promise, or guarantee that your proposal(s) or projects will be funded or that your evaluation report will indicate that your program’s goals & objectives will be achieved. We CAN guarantee a tailored approach grounded in the latest in best practices, appropriate methodology, and professional experience. We approach our work with clients as a partnership. The road to securing funding is not a quick process. (Please Note: No reputable & ethical consultant can guarantee your proposal will win.)
What is your success rate/win rate?
Our team has secured well over $100M+ in non-dilutive funding sources, where awards range from $50,000 to $5,000,000 per project.
You can see some of the more notable of our successes here.
Ultimately, EBHC does not calculate the rate of funded grants for several reasons.
- Our clients may be applying to the same agency under the same solicitation, and each has a distinctly different focus and purpose. Essentially, no two applications are the same.
- Additionally, we do not screen clients for their funding “potential.” Rather, we generally accept any assignment, provided that we have the capacity to meet the deadline and the applicant is eligible. Finally, our clients often do not tell us when they are funded.
- Funding decisions depend on many variables, such as the number of applications submitted, the mood of the reviewers, geographic and political considerations, and many other factors not easily identifiable.
How much time commitment should I set aside for the grant?
We tell clients that a well-constructed competitive proposal for SBIR/STTR will take between 150 to 225 hours of our time. We encourage our clients to anticipate spending between 50 to 60 hours of their time throughout the proposal process. This time should be spent reviewing all documents and providing us with feedback, as well as collecting supporting documentation information.
Does EBCH offer grant writing seminars?
Unfortunately, at this time, we don’t focus on providing grant writing seminars. We are happy to refer you to those that do.
How much will a grant proposal cost to prepare and does the amount being requested impact the fee?
Our fees for preparing most government grant proposals range from $6,000 — $15,000, depending on the complexity of the application and the amount of time we have to complete the assignment. Fees are never based on the amount being requested because we do not work for contingent fees
Does EBHC have a special relationship with funders?
EBHC does not have any special relationships with funders and never attempts to influence funding decisions through lobbying efforts. Funders typically do not know about our involvement, and we are transparent in the proposal development process. Our goal is to prepare high-quality and highly competitive proposals that enable our clients to be considered for funding
Does EBHC provide a discount for nonprofit organizations or do you donate your services for a good cause?
EBHC’s fees are the same for all clients, including nonprofits.
We purchased a Funding Menu. Can we get it freshened up?
Yes. Once your funding menu has been developed based on your organization’s needs, we can update it periodically, depending on your needs. Typically, this can be weekly, monthly, or quarterly at our hourly rate of $125 per hour at a 4-hour minimum ($500) per update. Talk with us about your updating needs.