TIPS FOR GRANT APPLICANTS

It is worthwhile to seek grant funds. Funders want to make grants and if your project is funded, you can do something valuable. Here are tips for successful grant writing.

1. Make sure you have a good idea and are committed to making it happen. Don’t apply for money unless you know what you want to do and you really want to implement the project. It helps to check out your idea with colleagues and develop a clear rational before you look for funds.
   
   
2. Look for a funding source that matches your project and goals. Reaching Heights, and most funders have guidelines and focus areas for giving. Read the materials and make sure your project connects. Feel free to ask for advice. If there isn’t an obvious match you may want to look elsewhere for funds.
   
   
3. Because funders depend on written proposals to evaluate requests, it is critical that applicants are able to explain their projects clearly and succinctly. Be able to articulate the need to be addressed, the activities, and why the activities will address the problem. Develop a realistic timeline, and a realistic and informative budget. Don’t inflate your budget or promise more than you can do. Be clear and realistic.
   
   
4. Take some risks. Most funders are anxious to support promising experiments. This makes it valuable to have a good plan for evaluating your project. Think through how you will know you’ve been successful. You will get a lot more from receiving a grant to implement a project if you have a way to learn from the project.