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Basic Elements of Grant Writing• define the project • identify potential funding sources• gather information• write and package the proposal• submit the proposal to a funder   Piece of cake?

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Pre-planning

1. Define the project:Identify the broad project goals: what

will be the main outcomes?

Break them into specific objectives: what will you do to reach the goals?

Describe a work plan for each objective.

Draft a timeline.

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3. Identify Potential Funders government agencies

- subscribe: grants.gov, NSF Update Daily Digest Bulletin, NASA Educa. Express)

- check grants.gov search engine (by agency, category)

foundations - Google “foundation grants education”

the Foundation Center (clearing house)

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4. Acquire the program guidelines

Become familiar with:

program goals

eligibility requirements

award levels

submission deadlines: letter of intent? pre-proposal? full proposal

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proposal format: fonts, margins, page limits

budget requirements - matching funds?- Indirect cost restrictions?

evaluation process, criteria, timetable

who to contact for information

review process - panel review only? (NSF) - in-house final decision? (DOE/FIPSE)

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5. Gather Information

Document the problem/issue. Document work already undertaken. Identify relevant research. Develop a list of references.

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Write the proposal

Standard proposal components: Abstract : one page summary Narrative: often 30 pages double-spaced Budget; budget explanation Appendix of support material, if allowed Certifications (often electronic)

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Narrative:

Follow the program guidelines. Address each heading -- in order!

Typical headings: 1. Introduction (overview)

2. Statement of goals, need for the project.

Give a compelling, logical reason why the

proposal should be supported

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3. Methods/Approach

Explain the procedures you will follow to accomplish your objectives and reach your goals.

Describe the scope of work and expected outcomes.

Outline the planned activities.

Describe the management plan and personnel functions. Provide names of key staff, consultants.

4. Evaluation enlist an external evaluator early on have him/her write the evaluation piece ensure that it follow the funders guidelines

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5. Timeline Show all important dates: activities, events, deliverables.

6. Dissemination of resultsExplain how you will get information about your project and its

outcomes to those who need to know about it.

7. SustainabilityHow will you ensure that your accomplishments are sustained

beyond the life of the project?

8. Credentials Explain why you and your team are qualified to lead the project. Explain why your institution is qualified to house the project.

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Budget: Are costs reasonable?

Be prepared to negotiate!

Is the budget consistent with the activities?

Is the budget explanation detailed enough?

Are in-kind/matching contributions adequate, if required?

Do not list the value of in-kind contributions in the budget unless required. Some funders (NSF) need documentation of such expenditures.

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References:

Show that you have done:prior research on this specific

issue, directly related research, other relevant research

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Supporting materials:

Policies about supporting materials differ widely. Check the program guidelines!

If allowed, use appendices for materials that:

endorse the project and the applicant add information about project personnel

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Submitting the Proposal: Beware of last minute glitches!Acquire authorized signatures in advance;proposals may be rejected without them.

Submit early – anything can happen on your due date. No extensions are available for:

computer problems, personal crises,

Web site malfunctions, power failures, etc.