You've decided which grant to apply for and have reviewed the grant materials and requirements. Now it's time to explain how the design and purpose of your project are consistent with the requirements and goals of the grant.
Before starting to write
First gather the required documentation. You will need background information in at least four areas:
- Your School or Organization
- Your Need
- Your Project
- Project Expenses
Your project goals and objectives must be clearly defined and fall within the guidelines of the funding source.
Determine how your project fits into the philosophy and the mission of your school or organization. It is important for the funding source to know that your proposed project reinforces the overall direction of your school or organization.
Provide background information on other projects your school or organization has been involved in and be able to describe their relationship to your proposed project.
Abstract and/or cover sheet
- Organization's name
- Need and/or problem
- Goals and objectives of the proposed project
- Estimated cost
Project Narrative
- Introduction: Describe the overall need and/or problem to be addressed by your proposed project. Explain the specific needs of your students and/or teachers.
- Demographics: Describe your target populations by category: students, teachers, administrators, parents, etc. Include percentages of students in special education and/or disadvantaged students. Use numbers of students, teachers, administrators and other staff participating in the project.
- Measurable objectives: What are the specific measurable outcomes or objectives of your project.
- Strategies and/or activities: What strategies and specific activities will be undertaken to achieve your goals and objectives? Describe your implementation plan.
- Timeline: When will your activities be conducted and completed?
- Evaluation: How can you prove you have been successful in meeting your objectives? What tests will you use? Who will be responsible for the evaluation process?
- Sustainability: Provide a statement on how the school or organization will sustain the innovation once funding has ended.
- Budget: Describe the costs necessary to carry out the activities you have described in your proposal.