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Grant Application Advice
As many of you know, the date for the next round of grant applications is quickly approaching. Many of you have asked what we look for in grant applications, so below you’ll find a few tips, facts and insights to help shape your application:
1. Follow the directions exactly. This may seem like a given, but that includes paying attention to dates (applications are accepted on the 1st through the 7th). Don’t sell yourself short by not following instructions closely enough.
2. Tell us a story. This goes for all of the grants. We received a huge number of grant applications this month and the winning applicants gave us a quick close-up that left a lasting impression. They didn’t use different language, style or voice – they simply told a really honest, vivid story.
3. Pictures can’t hurt. This is especially true of the Professional Resources grant. While it’s not required, it can really help create your story. What’s more effective: Telling us your laptop’s “A,” “E” and “S” keys are broken, or actually showing us your laptop with the missing keys? Not having a photo won’t put you out of the running, but having one could definitely help you gain an extra edge.
4. Have a definite plan. This goes mainly for the Work/Life Balance grant. Most of us could use an extra $250, but what makes your plans special? What exactly are you going to use it for? Remember, it should be one thing that will serve to balance your work with your life. See April’s grant winners for great examples.
If you have any questions, post them in this forum thread.
Good luck!
1. Follow the directions exactly. This may seem like a given, but that includes paying attention to dates (applications are accepted on the 1st through the 7th). Don’t sell yourself short by not following instructions closely enough.
2. Tell us a story. This goes for all of the grants. We received a huge number of grant applications this month and the winning applicants gave us a quick close-up that left a lasting impression. They didn’t use different language, style or voice – they simply told a really honest, vivid story.
3. Pictures can’t hurt. This is especially true of the Professional Resources grant. While it’s not required, it can really help create your story. What’s more effective: Telling us your laptop’s “A,” “E” and “S” keys are broken, or actually showing us your laptop with the missing keys? Not having a photo won’t put you out of the running, but having one could definitely help you gain an extra edge.
4. Have a definite plan. This goes mainly for the Work/Life Balance grant. Most of us could use an extra $250, but what makes your plans special? What exactly are you going to use it for? Remember, it should be one thing that will serve to balance your work with your life. See April’s grant winners for great examples.
If you have any questions, post them in this forum thread.
Good luck!
