Description

The cover letter is an introduction to you, your organization, and your project/program. It is the first document in the proposal that a prospective donor will see. 

Style

 One page maximum.
 Remember to consider the prospective donor's needs.
 Are there any visual aids the prospective donor would find informative or persuasive?  i.e. Letterhead logos add an element of professionalism.

Elements

Beginning

 Briefly introduce yourself and why you are writing.
 What are you requesting?
 There should be background information, history, or explanation the prospective donor might appreciate in order to understand your request.

Middle

If necessary, explain your request in greater depth. 

 What exact amount are you requesting from the prospective donor?
 Why are you requesting this? 
 Is there some way that fulfilling this request might benefit the prospective donor? 

End

Briefly restate the significance of having this request fulfilled in a way that will help your prospective donor want to fulfill it.

 Is there a time frame that you need to let the prospective donor know about?
 How can the prospective donor contact you?
 Thank the prospective donor for his or her time and consideration.