Application 2.3

Locating Possible Funding Sources – Developing an Idea

Before You Write

Overview:

Great ideas lead to possible sources of funding. For some, the grand idea is the impetus for writing a grant. For others, the process of refining an idea is what leads to the foundation of a grant. Regardless of the approach, it is important to get your proverbial ducks in a row before starting the writing process. Doing your homework in advance can save time, and may help focus your attention on areas that need further development. Consider the following as you start to give life to your idea and develop the idea for your grant.

Assignment:

Intertwined are tips and questions (some rhetorical) that will lead to building a strong foundation when it comes to writing a grant. Provide a brief response to the statements that follow QUESTION.

• If you were to meet someone on the sidewalk and share your passion for a grant idea, could it be refined into a short, engaging, and inspiring statement?
• QUESTION – In one or two sentences, what is your idea that will be the foundation for the grant?

• What are the goals and objectives of the project? While the G&O will be refined in detail later, it is helpful to have a firm direction of where the project is headed and the steps necessary to achieve the overarching goals.
• QUESTION – Write one goal with two or three supporting objectives.

• Consider the following:
• Does the proposed idea solve an existing problem?
• Although you may be passionate about the idea, does it have street cred or is it supported by existing supports (e.g. literature)?
• How is the proposed idea a significant improvement over current practice? Explain.
• Will the proposed resolution to the challenge/problem lead to additional issues that will need to be addressed?
• QUESTION – How does the proposed idea enhance current practice?

• QUESTION – Will the proposed idea resolve the challenge/issue? If yes, how do you know?

• Gathering background information and familiarizing yourself with current literature can assist in better understanding the scope, best and next practice, as hurdles may emerge as the challenge/issue is addressed.
• Search for previously awarded projects or work that is similar to your idea. What stands out as being innovative or something that could benefit your idea? What did you find that you did not previously consider?
• What does the current knowledge and literature say about the scope of the challenge/issue?
• QUESTION – What are some articles that provide a helpful perspective or important information useful to addressing the proposed challenge/issue? Provide several citations below.

• QUESTION – What other relevant initiatives have been used to address the challenge/issue? What initiative(s) stands out as being a model and something you may adapt for your use?

• Issue popularity matters for funders.
• What are some new approaches/ideas/twists applicable to the challenge/issue?
• What are some innovative approaches/ideas/twists applicable to the challenge/issue?
• QUESTION – Based on the literature, what new or innovative approach appears to be needed?

• While passions often reign supreme when developing grant ideas, funders also look at the credentials of those seeking support and implementing programs.
• QUESTION – Why are you best suited to lead the project? Discuss specific skills, qualities, and experiences of the team (including yourself) who will assist with the grant and program implementation.

• While your passion runs high for addressing the issue/challenge, who else is interested in the project and/or outcomes?
• QUESTION – Of the internal and external actors, who are invested in the idea and outcomes? Why?