• Identify a need or gap in services. Conduct a needs assessment if necessary.
• Work with the Director of Grants & Sponsored Programs to identify possible grant funding opportunities.
• Assemble a project design team of people who are committed to the project.
• Read the grant application documents carefully.
• Contact the grant program officer if clarification is needed.
• Create a timeline that allows for additional time in case of an emergency.
• Develop a problem statement.
• Ask for letters of support from project partners as early as possible.
• Develop one or two goals for the project.
• Develop both process and outcome objectives that are measurable for each goal.
• Design activities to carry out each objective.
• Design an evaluation plan that includes both qualitative and quantitative information.
• Write the narrative using short, concise sentences. Provide necessary information without trying to impress the reviewer.
• Use charts and graphs for impact as appropriate. They also help to break up the reading for the reviewer.
• Develop the budget carefully. Make sure the budgeted items correlate to the goals, objectives, and activities.
• Read through the application carefully. Check to be certain all the points are addressed in the proposal.
• Have a couple of people outside the team read through the proposal. Then, ask them to describe the intent of the project.