Development agency proposal: Free template
Customize this free development agency proposal with Cobrief
Open this free development agency proposal in Cobrief and start editing it instantly using AI. You can adjust the tone, structure, and content based on your tech stack, the client’s goals, and the project scope. 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 — ideal for pitching web apps, mobile apps, SaaS platforms, APIs, or full-stack development projects. Whether you’re a lean dev shop or a full-service tech agency, this version gives you a structured head start and removes the guesswork.
What is a development agency proposal?
A development agency proposal outlines how your team will design, build, and deliver a digital product or platform. It typically includes the technical scope, project stages, deliverables, timeline, and pricing.
This type of proposal shows how your developers will translate the client’s idea into a working product — with clarity on tech decisions, collaboration, and outcomes.
A strong development proposal helps you:
- Define project scope and technical approach clearly.
- Show confidence in your process, stack, and delivery plan.
- Set expectations for timelines, reviews, and testing.
- Position your team as proactive, accountable, and technically sound.
Why use Cobrief to edit your proposal
Cobrief helps you create polished, professional proposals — with AI that improves clarity and structure at every step.
- Edit the proposal directly in your browser: No formatting hassles or file setup.
- Rewrite sections with AI: Refactor language, simplify explanations, or adjust tone instantly.
- Run a one-click AI review: Spot vague or overly technical areas and fix them fast.
- Apply AI suggestions instantly: Accept individual edits or apply all changes in one click.
- Share or export instantly: Send via Cobrief or download a clean PDF or DOCX file.
Get from idea to signed project — faster and cleaner.
When to use this proposal
Use this development agency proposal for:
- Web or mobile app development.
- SaaS product builds.
- Platform migrations or rebuilds.
- API and backend development.
- MVP scoping and delivery.
- Ongoing development retainers.
It works for both project-based and long-term client partnerships.
What to include in a development agency proposal
Each section should help the client understand what you’ll build, how you’ll build it, and what they’ll receive:
- Executive summary: Outline the client’s goals (e.g., launch MVP, replace legacy system, scale features) and how your team will deliver a reliable, scalable solution.
- Scope of work: Define what’s included — e.g., frontend development, backend architecture, integrations, CMS setup, devops, QA testing. Break it into features or modules if needed.
- Technical approach: Describe the proposed stack (e.g., React, Node.js, Django, AWS) and rationale. Explain how it aligns with performance, scalability, or maintainability goals.
- Process and workflow: Outline stages — discovery, wireframes, sprints, QA, UAT, deployment. Mention tools used (e.g., Jira, GitHub, Figma, CI/CD) and how the team collaborates.
- Timeline: Provide a phased estimate — e.g., 2 weeks discovery, 6 weeks build, 2 weeks testing. Flag dependencies and review points.
- Pricing: Present your pricing — fixed project fee, time and materials, or milestone-based billing. Include add-ons like post-launch support or hosting.
- Terms and conditions: Cover payment terms, change requests, IP rights, code handoff, warranties, and bug support.
- Next steps: End with a clear CTA — like “Reply to confirm,” “Book a tech kickoff call,” or “Sign to begin development.”
How to write an effective development agency proposal
This proposal should feel technical, organized, and trustworthy:
- Bridge tech and business: Help clients understand how each technical choice supports their goals.
- Be realistic with scope and timelines: Under-promise, over-deliver.
- Use language that’s clear to decision-makers, not just developers.
- Clarify handoff, support, and what happens after launch.
- Format clearly: Short sections, bullet points, and headers help clients scan quickly.
- End with action: Make the next step easy to follow.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can I reuse this proposal for different kinds of dev projects?
Yes — just update the stack, scope, and timeline based on the project type (web, mobile, SaaS, etc.).
Should I include technical diagrams or architecture?
If helpful — you can link to or attach a visual if it aids understanding without overwhelming the client.
Does this proposal include post-launch support?
Only if you specify it — include a section or add-on for support hours or maintenance retainers.
Is this proposal legally binding?
No — this is a proposal. Attach or link a formal service agreement separately.
Can I export this proposal as a PDF or DOCX file?
Yes — once customized, you can instantly download it in either format.
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.