Where to Find Money to Enhance Educational Opportunities

10 Tips for Grantwriters

1. Have a great idea that stretches the minds of students and challenges teachers to extend past their comfort zones. Your program or project needs to be unique, have some sound benefits for students, and be able to be maintained by the district and/or replicated by others.
   
2. Find a funder and a grant that seems to fit the ideas that you've only dreamed of. Look in your community first and then expand your search.
   
3. If time permits, make every attempt to gather a team of educational personnel, business people, community members, and parents who are or could become interested in the program.
   
4. Read the grant application and guidelines very carefully, taking special note of things that seem to be important to the funders.
   
5. Remember and remind funders who the grant will ultimately benefit - your students!
   
6. Address each and every question posed in a clear, succinct way. Make sure to use the terminology found in the grant application and stay away from educational and technical jargon.
   
7. Prepare a budget that anyone can understand. A detailed budget is usually preferred over a general one.
   
8. Check, check, and triple check to make sure the grant application is complete and that you meet the deadline.
   
9. Remember that not all applications are awarded funding, but if your project is one you truly want to make happen, you can find a funder. Don't hesitate to call or write to get the reviewers comments if your grant is not funded.
   
10. Write a thank you note no matter what the outcome.