Seeking Grants

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KnowledgeBases > Seeking Grants

In addition to the federal and state governments, there are many private and corporate foundations funding innovative education projects. When developing grant proposals keep these practical tips in mind.

Practical Tip	Guidance
Identify the problem, then propose a solution.	Key questions to consider include: What is the problem or need? What data demonstrates the problem or need? What project idea do you propose as a solution?
Do your homework.	Research funding source priorities. Match your idea to funding source interests. A helpful online resource with information about grants has been compiled by the Ashland KY school district.
Be realistic about your funding needs.	Understand what the funding source is willing to pay for before writing the proposal. Key questions to consider include: What resources do you need? What resources can the school or district provide? How much money do you need from outside funding sources?
Collaborate with others.	Show who is involved in the project, will support it and will benefit from it.
Focus on results.	Funding sources are interested in knowing what goal of the funding source the project address and the added value the project brings to the school or district. A key question to consider is: How will you know the project was successful?
Write clearly and concisely.	Prepare your proposal in a way that will be reviewer friendly.
Proofread and double-check.	Do a quality check before sending the proposal. Check for: Typographical errors and correct grammar. Proposal meets funding source's requirements. Project fits within guidelines. Submitted within funding source's schedule.
Persistence pays	If the proposal is turned down, ask funding source for feedback. Rework the proposal and submit again in next funding cycle.

For additional grant information click on the following: Grants Writing Tips

Source:

Adapted from: "Tips for Grantseekers", Focal Points Issue No. 18 / February 2002, Public Education Network, Washington D.C.

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