Inside the Mind of the AmeriCorps Grant Reviewer Staff Workshop

AmeriCorps Proposal Review Process

  • Guidelines and Goals:

    • Key criteria & scoring (100 points total).

    • Importance of following specific instructions in the NOFO.

    • Methodology behind proposal scoring and the review process.

Steps in the Proposal Review Process

  1. Submitting numerous documents as required.

  2. Initial eligibility checks performed by a subcontracting vendor.

  3. Proposals scored by volunteer reviewers, including evaluation of evidence by a separate office.

Nature of Reviewers

  • Reviewers expect proposals to be clear, organized, and detailed.

  • Common reviewer biases can affect scoring.

  • Aim for a proposal that resonates with both expert reviewers and those unfamiliar with the program.

Making Reviewers Happy

  • **Important Points: **

    • Provide engaging details without oversimplifying.

    • Present proposals in an orderly fashion with clear headings.

    • Avoid using last year's proposal without revisions.

Effective Proposal Writing

  • Key Strategies for Writing Proposals:

    1. Establish Value Proposition: Demonstrate effectiveness, efficiency, and uniqueness.

    2. Use clear and compelling data to tell a story; utilize social math and context.

    3. Capture the heart and head of reviewers by utilizing both emotional and logical appeals.

Common Mistakes in Proposals

  • Typos, incomplete answers to questions, improper use of acronyms, and misrepresentation of organizational strengths.

  • Avoid dumbing down the content or being overly technical.

  • Ensure to follow the order of questions as outlined in the NOFO.

Solutions and Resources Offered

  • McMahon Consulting Group Services:

    • Pre-submission proposal reviews to boost scores and visibility of strengths and weaknesses.

    • Consultation about improving organizational performance and grant writing strategies.