Editing Openai/69105bd2-bf28-8005-be64-eadfadc9f430 (section)

=== Practical step-by-step plan (what to do next) ===
# Clarify & package your idea (1-page): problem → solution → measurable outcomes → budget ask → why Gates (fit to their priorities). I can draft this with you.
# Find precedent: use the Committed Grants Database to find grants like yours (keywords, geography, topic). Who funded similar work — global vs U.S. program? That tells you which team to contact. Gates Foundation<ref>{{cite web|title=Gates Foundation|url=https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/committed-grants|publisher=Gates Foundation|access-date=2025-11-10}}</ref>
# Identify the right team: if it’s U.S. education/workforce — engage the U.S. Program; if it’s global health/innovation, target Global Health or Grand Challenges. Gates Foundation<ref>{{cite web|title=Gates Foundation|url=https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/how-we-work/grant-opportunities|publisher=Gates Foundation|access-date=2025-11-10}}</ref>
# Warm outreach first (don’t ask for money in the first message): contact the program’s public email or use LinkedIn to request 15 minutes of guidance on alignment. Use the templates below. Gates Foundation<ref>{{cite web|title=Gates Foundation|url=https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/contact/write-to-us|publisher=Gates Foundation|access-date=2025-11-10}}</ref>
# Apply when there’s an RFP or if invited: follow the submission portal instructions (Grand Challenges or submit.gatesfoundation.org) — many grants are via open calls. upstream.grantsoffice.com<ref>{{cite web|title=upstream.grantsoffice.com|url=https://upstream.grantsoffice.com/Home/tabid/172/vw/g/vg/15218/Bill-and-Melinda-Gates-Foundation.aspx|publisher=upstream.grantsoffice.com|access-date=2025-11-10}}</ref>
# Leverage intermediaries: partner with a 501(c)(3) or a university that already receives large grants — Gates often funds organizations with established fiscal capacity. Gates Foundation<ref>{{cite web|title=Gates Foundation|url=https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/how-we-work/grant-opportunities|publisher=Gates Foundation|access-date=2025-11-10}}</ref>
# Network & visibility: attend sector conferences, webinars or Gates-hosted events; program staff sometimes scout projects at those places. Sign up for the U.S. Program newsletter. U.S. Program<ref>{{cite web|title=U.S. Program|url=https://usprogram.gatesfoundation.org/who-we-are/leadership|publisher=U.S. Program|access-date=2025-11-10}}</ref>