Module Four: Grant Proposal Writing Process
Opportunity Evaluation
Assess if the appropriate number of outcomes exists and if they align with planned research methods.
Importance of alignment for grant proposals; reviewers identify whether methods yield proposed outcomes.
Advisability of consulting with a successful mentor in the proposal process.
Need to consider broader impacts of proposed activities by experienced grant writers.
Importance of Planning
Planning contributes to a focused approach regarding tasks, resources, and timelines.
Grant writers often spend more time planning than writing about the project.
Acknowledge that multiple ideas may arise over time during the planning phase.
Before engaging in partnerships or writing applications, consider the following questions:
Major Challenge: Does the project address a significant issue?
Innovation: Is the project novel and original?
Achievability: Are the goals and objectives attainable within a reasonable timeframe?
Evidence-Based: Is the project informed by research, best practices, or promising strategies?
Improvements: Can the project lead to fundamental advancements?
Professional Capability: Are competent professionals involved in the project?
Resource Support: Is the project backed by sufficient resources and institutional commitment?
Objective Development
Define and explain project objectives. Objectives should be SMART:
Specific: Clear and well-defined.
Measurable: Quantifiable to determine progress.
Achievable: Realistically attainable.
Realistic: Grounded in actuality, considering available resources.
Timely: Bound by a specific timeframe.
Well-articulated objectives demonstrate understanding of successful project criteria to potential funders.
Project Summary
Summarize the project effectively as reviewers read this section first.
Include:
Issue or need being addressed.
Project description and research methods.
Project evaluation processes.
Timeline and expected outcomes.
Often, grant writers draft the project summary after completing the application to ensure alignment with the full proposal.
Ensure that the summary accurately reflects the content of the proposal before submission.
Writing Clarity
Use headings in accordance with application guidelines to enhance readability and organization.
Disorganization can confuse or irritate reviewers, reflecting poor project planning.
Emphasize key points using underlining or boldface to attract attention.
Highlight the positive impact of the project on individuals, organizations, and communities.
Increasing project visibility is critical due to high competition for funding.
Expectations of Funders
Funders are interested in projects that leverage their investments; they seek outcomes that can be replicated.
Example: A successful pilot STEM project in one school can be replicated across multiple schools nationally.
Funders value evidence-based projects grounded in solid research and thorough evaluation plans.
Proposed evaluations should meticulously document project success and glean lessons learned from implementation.
Emphasize clear and concise writing throughout the proposal to facilitate understanding.
Funding Criteria
Foundations often prioritize projects addressing clear real-world needs.
Likelihood of funding increases for organizations demonstrating they can fill gaps in services, reach large populations, and deliver significant outcomes.
In the past, anecdotal evidence sufficed (e.g., testimonies), but contemporary funders desire rigorous qualitative and quantitative evidence of impact.
Innovative Approaches
Organizations, such as the Ford Foundation, seek innovative solutions for pressing issues.
Commitment to monitoring funded projects to hold grantees accountable for achieving innovative goals.
Proposals should articulate a compelling narrative detailing the identified need, potential solutions, and anticipated impact on communities.
Terminology Definition
Clearly define terms that may have varied meanings to enhance clarity for reviewers.
Distinguish between general and specific usage of terminology, particularly in technical or pedagogical contexts.
A well-structured definition aids reviewer understanding of proposed outcomes.
Research Integrity
Researchers must discuss the reliability and validity of their research methods.
Provide rationale for analysis extent planned within the project and summarize research limitations.
They may propose one or several expected research outcomes; each outcome should be thoroughly explained regarding its contribution to understanding the research topic.