Grant Writer Clients' Responsibilities

I just completed working on a government RFP for four clients. In the end, only two of the proposals were put in the mail. The difference was that one of my clients realized that he could not provide needed information in time for me to meet deadlines. He admitted his plate full and pulled back. I much prefer this that the second approach that also was not sent. In this instance, the executive director faxed me tons of materials, such as pamphlets, etc. He even faxed me the first two pages of the RFP announcement. He just couldn't understand that he needed to be an active participant in this process as the grant writer. On the other hand I worked with an ED, who was constantly on top of things. Autie Hines from Virginia replied to my emails and telephone calls within an hour. I didn't have to wait for needed information. My message is for schools, nonprofits and other organizations that seek the use of a grant writing consultant, realize that your job does not just stop there. You remain an active participant in the grant writing process right up to the time the proposal is sent. In another blog I'll list what I believe are the responsibilities of grant writer clients. I'd like to read what other grant writers and clients have to write in this regard.