App development proposal: Free template
Customize this free app development proposal with Cobrief
Open this free app development proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your technical approach, client objectives, and app features. You can also use AI to review your draft — spot gaps, tighten language, and improve clarity before sending.
Once you're done, send, download, or save the proposal in one click — no formatting or setup required.
This template is fully customizable and built for real-world use —i deal for pitching mobile apps, web applications, hybrid development projects, or MVP builds. Whether you’re a freelance developer, digital agency, or startup studio, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.
What is an app development proposal?
An app development proposal outlines the scope, process, deliverables, timeline, and pricing for creating custom mobile or web applications. Typically shared after initial project discussions or discovery sessions, it helps both sides clearly define what will be built, how it will work, and what outcomes to expect.
The proposal details key app features, supported platforms (e.g., iOS, Android, web), technologies involved, development stages, and costs — making the process transparent from day one.
A strong app development proposal helps you:
- Clearly define app features, functionality, and technical scope.
- Set realistic expectations around timelines, costs, and deliverables.
- Demonstrate your expertise and professional development approach.
- Provide clients confidence and clarity about what they’re getting.
Use this template to communicate your approach professionally and persuasively.
Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal
With Cobrief, you can easily customize, refine, and send professional app development proposals— all from one AI-powered editor.
- Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No formatting or setup required—just click and start customizing.
- Rewrite sections with AI: Improve clarity, simplify technical explanations, or enhance overall readability.
- Run a one-click AI review: Quickly find vague, unclear, or incomplete sections and receive immediate improvements.
- Apply AI suggestions instantly: Review and accept individual AI suggestions, or apply all improvements across the proposal in one click.
- Share or export instantly: Send directly from Cobrief or download a clean PDF or DOCX file instantly.
Deliver polished, professional proposals faster and with confidence.
When to use this proposal
Use this app development proposal for situations such as:
- Pitching new mobile apps (iOS, Android) to clients or investors.
- Proposing web or hybrid application builds.
- Responding to app-focused RFPs or project briefs.
- Presenting MVP development to startups or internal stakeholders.
This template fits any scenario where clarity around features, timelines, and costs is key.
What to include in an app development proposal
This structure helps clients understand exactly how you’ll develop their app and manage the project:
- Executive summary: Briefly introduce the app concept, core functionality, and the problem it solves or opportunity it captures. Emphasize user experience, business impact, or market differentiation.
- Scope of work: Clearly define app features and functionality, including platform specifics (iOS, Android, web), user flows, key screens, integrations, and backend requirements.
- Technical approach: Specify technologies and frameworks you'll use (e.g., React Native, Flutter, Swift, Kotlin, React.js), and why they fit the project.
- Project timeline: Outline phases clearly — planning, prototyping, design, development, testing, launch—and provide milestone dates or duration estimates.
- Pricing: Clearly break down your costs — by development phase, milestones, or overall project scope. Indicate payment terms and any additional potential costs (e.g., third-party services).
- Terms and conditions: Use straightforward language to cover revisions, intellectual property ownership, payment schedule, and cancellation terms.
- Next steps: Provide a clear, actionable step — like “Reply to confirm” or “Click to schedule a kickoff call.”
How to write an effective app development proposal
Your proposal should demonstrate clarity, technical competence, and strategic value:
- Highlight user benefits clearly: Explain how the app will improve user experiences or business outcomes.
- Be specific about features and scope: Avoid ambiguity—clearly list what is (and isn’t) included.
- Keep technology understandable: Explain your technology choices in simple, client-friendly terms.
- Show your structured process: Clients gain confidence when they see a clear plan and realistic timeline.
- Keep formatting clean: Use headings, bullets, and short sections to improve readability.
- Close with clarity: Provide a frictionless next step to move forward quickly.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I reuse this proposal for different apps or clients?
Yes—just adjust scope, tech stack, and specifics to fit each new project.
Does this proposal work for both mobile and web apps?
Absolutely — update the deliverables and technology section accordingly.
Can I include project examples or screenshots?
Yes, it’s helpful — clients often benefit from seeing past project examples or mockups.
Is this proposal a legally binding agreement?
No — this is just a proposal. You can attach or link to a separate agreement or SOW if needed.
Can I export this proposal as a PDF or DOCX?
Yes — after editing, you can download a polished PDF or DOCX version instantly.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.