grant_writingApplying for grants is not as easy as many would like you to believe. The art and science of applying for grant programs is called grantsmanship, and is an actual career position at many large colleges and research entities! Grant applications, when done correctly take a great deal of time and effort, but the results can be well worth the effort.

There are many things you ought to consider during the completion of your grant applications.

Here are a few:

1) Make a difference in the world.
That is the point of grants after all. Keep this in mind even before you approach and granting agency to apply for a grant. Make sure your grant application is in line with the overall goal of your prospective funder.

2) Know the specific goals of your funding source.
You need to know the particulars for grant application, such as what kind of projects they have funded in the past, and exactly what they are looking to fund now, as sometimes their goals can change. Just ask them – they will be very happy to tell you.

You should also ask them if they have a geographical preference – it is often easier to get funding from a local project than to get funding from an organization that is accepting Grant applications nationally.

3) Know the person who will be looking over your proposal.
Try to write your grant application to the level of understanding of the reviewer or the reviewing committee if possible. If they know your field, then it is acceptable to use more technical definitions, but with a grant application, the rule should always be to write simply, rather than technically. Give a high level overview of the technical parts with the added comment that detailed technical information is available upon request.

4) Know your funding source.

It will help you to know how to sound and feel in your proposal. Always back things up with facts and a clear understanding of the need for the funding.

5) Prepare a budget that is easy to read and detailed
Always fully explain everything, and be as detailed as possible in your proposed budget. Show what everything is going to cost and be sure to include any other financial resources, including any match funding from other organizations. This is to allow your funding agency a clear picture of what your proposal entails.

6)You have one shot – make it your best effort.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on the presentation – but you do need to spend the time and effort to present your proposal in the best light. Show that you believe in your project – because if you don’t – no one else will.

Your grant application is important – do it right!

Originally posted 2009-03-12 20:03:12. Republished by Old Post Promoter.

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