The 14 Best Subject Lines for Business Proposals, Plus Examples

Type: Formal, RFP response, Corporate

Tone: Polite, official

When sending project proposal email in regulated industries, this kind of subject reduces the chance that someone questions the professionalism of the message before even opening it.

Project Proposal Email Example

Subject: Project proposal for [client company name] ready for review

Dear [client name],

Thank you again for your time during our recent call about the [project name] work.

The attached proposal summarizes the agreed-upon objectives, scope, timeline, and investment, along with a brief section on risks and dependencies, so your team can see the big picture.

Based on the shared priorities, we recommend starting with phase one or a pilot and moving into phase two once the results meet the agreed-upon targets.

If the proposal aligns with your expectations, the next step would be a short review session with your core stakeholders to cover any open questions and make small adjustments together.

Please suggest a day and time that works best for a quick walkthrough, or share comments directly in your reply if that is easier for your team.

Warm regards,

[sender name]
[role]
[company name]

Type: Follow up, Proposal, Sales

Tone: Courteous, slightly urgent

This serves as a gentle reminder after the previous proposal message.

Type: Business, Decision stage

Tone: Direct, respectful

This proposal subject line is suitable for a later stage of the conversation, when the client understands the problem, the solution, and the cost ranges.

The wording “for your decision” also doesn’t sound pushy or desperate.

This Subject Line Can Also Be:

• Sending the [project name] proposal for sign off
• [project name] proposal attached for your go or no go
• Here is the [project name] proposal for your review

Type: Business, Proposal, B2B

Tone: Professional, clear

Use this subject line when the client is expecting the proposal and the message needs to feel predictable.

The phrase “ready for review” sets a simple expectation and prepares the reader for a structured document with clear scope and pricing.

Type: Business, Partnership, Proposal

Tone: Helpful, focused, respectful

Some proposal emails are effective because they focus on the reader’s goals rather than the sender’s pitch. Mentioning the [goal] turns the subject into a mirror.

Type: Business, Proposal, Professional

Tone: Confident, calm, structured

A business proposal subject line has one real job, earn the open without sounding loud, and this one does that very well.

When a proposal follows a call or a demo, this line acts like a bookmark.

This one goes on proposal email subject line use cases. It combines content and timeline information, so the reader knows what the email contains and the timeframe for action.

The bracketed date creates a sense of urgency without pressuring the reader, who can adjust as needed.

Tips: Match body copy to the deadline, and include a clear summary of value, pricing, and next step. 

Example Email:

Subject: Proposal inside, decision by June 12?

Hi [Name],

Attached is the proposal we discussed, showing the phased rollout, costs, and projected metrics.

Review before June 12 if possible, so the team can lock in the current rate.

If that date is too soon, let me know and I’ll adjust accordingly.

Best,

[Your Name]

Tone

Clear, Upbeat

Why It Works

The phrase “quick win” hints at fast value. Adding a tangible benefit can increase open rates by 15% (Litmus study).

When to Use

Use this kind of subject line right after you finish tailoring the proposal. The promise of speed fits early-stage discussions where decision makers want rapid impact.

Example Email

Hi Sam,

I attached a one-page proposal that trims onboarding time by 25%.

Take a peek when you have five minutes. If you like it, we can lock in next steps by Friday.

Best,

Aisha

A question in subject lines invites reply. Slot the project name in brackets to ground the ask.

It’s a perfect for after an initial deck share. You gently nudge for input without sounding pushy.

Tips

• Keep the question direct. Scattershot wording bumps the email into spam filters.
• Set a follow-up reminder in two days. See our follow-up subject line guide for wording.

Type

Professional, Collaborative, Feedback-oriented

Tone

Conversational, Curious

People skim inboxes for clear actions and “Next steps” signals momentum.

Drop this line after the prospect confirms interest. You steer the conversation toward closing without hard sell language.

Type: Business, Sales Enablement

Tone: Action-oriented, Confident

This Subject Line Can Also Be:

• Ready to move on our proposal?
• Let’s finalize the proposal this week

In this subject line, “Eager” shows enthusiasm, not desperation

Use this kind of subject line after you create a first draft but before polishing. You collect early feedback and spot blockers early.

Type: Collaborative, Service-oriented

Tone: Friendly, Respectful

Example Email

Hey Jordan,

I just wrapped a draft proposal covering timeline, scope, and cost breakdown.

I’m eager to hear what resonates and what feels off.

Could we hop on a 15-minute call Wednesday?

Thanks,

Drew

“Brief” respects time. “Fits your goals” speaks to relevance.

It’s an Ideal proposal line for C-suite contacts who scan quickly. You front-load clarity so they click.

Tips

• Attach a one-pager PDF, not a 30-slide deck.
• Close with a light CTA: “Worth a chat?” feels low-pressure.

Type: Consultative, Client-focused

Tone: Helpful, Neutral

Type:

Formal, Professional, Client-facing

Tone:

Clear, Straightforward, Respectful

Content:

Sometimes, plain works best. This proposal email subject line is especially useful in formal settings, like submitting a proposal to a procurement officer, RFP manager, or enterprise client.

Include the name of the project or initiative here, so it’s immediately recognizable. If it’s part of a competitive bid, this helps your email stand out and stay organized in their inbox.

There’s no fluff, just clear intent. I wouldn’t recommend this for casual proposals or early-stage leads, but for big deals or contract submissions—It nails it.

And for follow-ups later, you can refer back to it easily: “Following up on Proposal for [Project Name].”

Type:

Sales, Pitch, Personalized

Tone:

Helpful, Friendly, Consultative

Content:

This subject line is like a problem-solver. Instead of sending “just a proposal,” you’re offering a solution to something they care about.

Use this kind of lines after you’ve identified a clear pain point, like slow onboarding or poor churn rates.

Mentioning the goal or challenge directly helps the reader feel seen. You’re not just guessing—you’re addressing something specific. Plus, the phrasing “here’s what I propose” feels collaborative, not forceful.

This Subject Line Can Also Be:

• Here’s an idea to boost [KPI or result]
• My proposed plan to tackle [problem]
• Thinking through your [goal]? I put together something