From the Blog:

How to Structure an RFP
Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are crucial in business, serving as structured guides that outline a company’s project needs to potential bidders. This blog breaks down the key components of RFPs, from stating clear objectives and submission guidelines to detailing budget considerations and technical requirements. We’ll also touch on how proposals are evaluated and the importance of setting clear terms and conditions. Let’s dive into the structure and significance of RFPs in the business world

How can I add my small business to RFP bid lists?
Being added to Request for Proposal (RFP) bid invitation lists typically involves actively engaging with relevant organizations and agencies and demonstrating your qualifications and capabilities.

What is the difference between an RFP and a Grant?
An RFP (Report for Proposal) and a grant are both methods of soliciting or providing funding, but they are typically used in different contexts and have some key differences.

I already know I’m going to bid. Why should I attend the Bidder’s Conference?
A bidder’s conference aims to provide potential bidders or proposers with additional information and/or clarify the project’s requirements, scope, terms, and conditions.

Case Study: RFP Support & Consulting for Evalv IQ regarding Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. (TASB) RFP
Once Upon an RFP provided RFP Support & Consulting for Evalv IQ on September 2022 for Proposal No. 692-23 for Software as a Service (SaaS), Cybersecurity Assessments, and Related Products and Services with the Texas Association of School Boards, Inc. (TASB)

What is Grant Funding?
Where can I find Grant Opportunities for my small business? Grant funding is not a loan and generally does not have to be paid back.

Top 5 Benefits of Hiring Proposal Experts
Many of our clients have experience responding to RFPs internally. They have been successful in their proposal efforts thus far and are initially hesitant to enlist professional proposal support. However, writing proposals can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially when balanced with day-to-day responsibilities.

How Does the RFP Process Work?
The RFP (Request for Proposal) process is a formalized process organizations use to procure goods or services from external vendors. It typically involves the following steps:

Case Study: Proposal Support & Consulting for Women’s Mental Health and Wellness Provider
Once Upon An RFP provides Grant Application Support & Consulting for a Women’s Mental Health and Wellness provider.

OUanRFP FAQs Series: “So, what do you actually do?”
For many professionals, the vast world of bidding and procurement is entirely uncharted. Therefore, it makes sense that not everyone has heard of what we actually do here at Once Upon an RFP. We like to say we’re the partner you never knew you needed!

Case Study: Proposal Support & Consulting for Technology Solutions Provider
Once Upon An RFP provides Proposal Support & Consulting for a technology solutions provider and administrator in the Education industry.

Case Study: RFP Support & Consulting for Consulting & Contracting LLC
Once Upon An RFP provided RFP Support & Consulting for a Consulting & Contracting LLC on November 2022 for RFP#. 30-2223013 – ApprenticeNC Equity Outreach.

2022 Best of Villa Park Award – Press Release
Once Upon an RFP Receives 2022 Best of Villa Park Award
Villa Park Award Program Honors the Achievement
VILLA PARK November 8, 2022 — Once Upon an RFP has been selected for the 2022 Best of Villa Park Award in the Consultant category by the Villa Park Award Program.

4 Lessons We’ve Learned In 4 Years
August 22, 2022, Once Upon an RFP turns four years old. Since 2018, we’ve blossomed from a one-woman operation to a rapidly growing team of proposal consultants, communications coordinators, marketing specialists, operations gurus, and program managers.

Lay the Foundation with Small Business Toolkit
Small Business Toolkit (SMB Toolkit) is the one-stop-shop for businesses that work with Government and Big Corporate.
Designed for solopreneurs, SMB Toolkit will take you from chaos to done. We offer services ranging from anchoring established businesses to a complete overhaul for your brand and company.

Writing Tips: Maximizing Readability
Maximizing readability consists of helping your readers find and comprehend information efficiently. Whether writing blogs or responding to bids, it is crucial to keep your readers in mind and adjust accordingly.

Ask an RFP Pro: What Is Procurement?
RFPs and bidding processes are lucrative options for small business owners seeking stability. But first, what is procurement, and how can these processes help small businesses?

From Chaos to Done: Transform Your Business
Want to take your laundry list of to-dos from chaos to done? We offer comprehensive support for RFPs, proposal professional training, and business certifications.

Networking for Social Moths
If you’re not quite a social butterfly, you might be a social moth instead.
The business world expects entrepreneurs and working professionals to exude confidence and charisma. Being anxious, shy, and introverted is too often looked down upon. However, we can actually leverage anxiety, shyness, and introversion to create meaningful, affirming connections.

Balance and Joy Part 2: Finding Your Joy
Finding joy in your profession is the key to long-term success. But what happens when you lose sight of your priorities or dread each workday?

Proposal Myths and Where They Go Wrong
Proposal myths are rampant in the industry. From misunderstanding compliance to overestimating pricing, let’s set the record straight.

Diverse Certifications: They’re Not Just for Government Contractors
Why should small businesses invest in diverse certifications?

Wait a Minute- Is it “A RFP” or “An RFP”?
This is a common question we receive, so we thought we should address it and end the confusion once and for all!

Balance and Joy Part 1: The Balancing Act
Amid burnout, overwhelm, and frustration, it can feel impossible to find balance. In this instance, it is vital to take a step back and assess where you might be experiencing an imbalance.

Lights, Camera, Action! – Make Remote Work Work For You – Part 4
Whether you are interviewing via Zoom or conducting virtual client meetings, your background, lighting, and camera angles can affect how others in your meeting perceive you. In the before times, how we dressed or styled our hair changed others’ perceptions. In present times, our virtual setup can have a similar effect.

Take Care of Yourself – Make Remote Work Work For You – Part 3
It’s all too easy to create an unproductive work environment while working from the comfort of your own home. A little self-care and a workspace free from distractions will boost productivity and enhance your remote work experience.

Stay Connected – Make Remote Work Work For You – Part 2
Working from home can be isolating. Long days without human interaction can make you feel lonely, frustrated, and uninspired. We’ve compiled ways to boost interaction and productivity to combat isolation.

Stick to a Schedule – Make Remote Work Work For You – Part 1
With remote work comes much more freedom than in-office work. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a consultant, or a full-time employee, staying on track with tasks and deadlines can be difficult.

The Great Resignation: 5 Strategies to Fix Your Proposal Talent Crisis
“The Great Resignation” has been a thing for a while now. We think it’s time to call it what it is: a talent crisis. It impacts every industry, including proposals, and there’s more than one cause.

11 Gifts for the Proposal Writer In Your Life
Whether for holidays, birthdays, or as a thank you, here is a list of gifts to surprise and delight the proposal writer in your life!