Grants - Are they worth it?
“Grants” the word evokes a sense of excitement and opportunity followed by feelings of intimidation and frustration. You don’t know if the opportunity is really geared at your project or need. You don’t know how to approach the proposal, particularly in the measurables sections. And, of course, you don’t want to waste your time completing a detailed application when the odds of funding are unlikely. As a former grant administrator and individual that has secured and implemented diverse projects, I have four pieces of advice.
Reach out to the grant coordinator: Send the RFP’s point of contact an email outlining your project and ask whether it is eligible. The grant coordinator needs to be impartial when communicating with all potential applicants, but they are there to answer your questions, ensure you understand the program and can answer whether a concept is “eligible”. With that, don’t ask “will I be funded” or “what are my chances?” You will receive a generic response. However, grant coordinators DO want to help folks understand the program and to see it successful. Don’t be intimidated to ask questions even though the RFP indicates all questions will be published. This is simply to make sure everyone has the same information. Keep in mind coordinators don’t want to waste time reviewing ineligible proposals. Communication saves everyone’s time.
Search for previously funded projects: If the funding source is not new, you can learn a tremendous amount from reviewing other projects that have been funded. We all learn from example right? Usually, 2-3 sentences about each previously funded project are provided which can give you a general idea of whether your concept aligns with the funding priorities.
Don’t force a project idea: Applicants often have a very specific project in mind and pursue funds to precisely fit that idea. Be adaptable and look at your project step by step. Don’t try and swallow the whole apple in one bite. Sometimes you need to start small and see how the funding could help you chip away at the intended outcome. You might be looking at a complex implementation project that really should have been a feasibility assessment or pilot project. For example, you might want to start a shared processing facility, but have you assessed the logistics and feasibility of executing that idea? You could apply for planning funds to do just that, which results in a future successful implementation project with a higher likelihood of being funded.
Write your proposal then your budget: The only exception to this rule is if the funding cap is potentially prohibitive to successful project completion, in which case look at the budget first before diving into the full proposal. When reviewing grants, it is highly apparent when someone is just aiming to secure a certain dollar amount. This creates disharmony among your narrative and discredits your ability to execute a successful project and manage your budget. I’ve read some fantastic proposals that lost me at the budget because it wasn’t reasonable and didn't fit the activities outlined in the proposal.
In conclusion, don’t dismiss grants but use the tools available. If you read the RFP/RFA and feel like it was written in pig latin, ask for help. The program manager is there to help you, so use them. All Points West Consulting will help you navigate this process and has secured and managed millions of public dollars.
-Ashley Jeppson