Writing a
winning grant can be as easy as 1,2,3
(NASPE News Fall 2009. Reprinted with permission)
#1 - Locate a funding source
Writing a grant is generally a deadline based project. When looking for
a funding source, research application periods and deadlines. Finding
a funding source is not as hard as it seems. Search locally, statewide
and nationally to find an appropriate funding source to match your needs.
Check community foundations, private foundations, corporate foundations,
professional sources, and government agencies. One source may be to apply
for the Carol M. White Physical Education for Progress Grant.
#2 - Read and follow directions
of the grant proposal
According to Bowers (2005), there are five items of grant proposals that
rate high ratings from reviewers: 1. Write grant proposals exactly according
to grant guidelines. 2. Proposal identifies an important need. 3. Proposal
is cost effective. 4. Proposal is well organized and clearly written.
5. Proposal is concisely written and looks professional.
#3 - Write the Grant
When writing the grant, remember the first impression is critical! A grant
proposal often includes many parts. Don't be intimidated! These components
may include: (1) introduction; (2) needs statement; (3) design of the
project; (4) design of the research grant; (5) quality of personnel, facilities,
equipment and distribution for the project; (6) evaluation of the project;
(7) budget; and (8) appendix.
*Bowers, L. (2005). Physical educator's guide to successful grant writing.
Reston, VA
NASPE ARTICLE:
Looking for a way to build or supplement your physical education
program?
Perhaps you need a traverse climbing wall, technology, or some other type
of equipment. Writing a simple grant can help you secure needed curricular
materials, while promoting your program at the same time. Remember these
basic steps when writing a grant:
(1) Know exactly what you want;
(2) Locate a source to meet your needs;
(3) Read the proposal;
(4) Follow directions;
(5) Be concise;
(6) Be thorough;
(7) Be professional;
and (8) Meet deadlines.
The Cover Letter
The cover letter is a one-page letter which introduces your proposal to
the grant provider. You want to summarize your proposal including the
amount / type of funding you are seeking. Additionally, your focus should
be to actively engage the provider as to how s/he can help bring life
to the desired project.
The Grant Proposal
The proposal page includes the title of the grant proposal, contact information,
and an abstract of the proposal. The contact information should include
a physical address, contact phone number(s), and contact email address(es).
The abstract should include a short summary related to the purpose of
the grant, outcomes of the grant, and relevant features of the grant.
The Statement of Need
The statement of need should explain the reason and supporting data to
support the need for the grant and the population to be served.
Program Description
The program description is the place to address the "who, what, where,
how, and when" questions related to the desired outcome(s) of the project.
Be sure to articulate in detail (along with pictures and / or diagrams)
the proposed project. Indentify the way in which the proposal will address
the needs and meet the goals. Provide a timeline and management plan in
this section. Also be sure to address any and all risk management concerns
(which would include construction procedures, equipment safety, durability,
equipment replacement, and maintenance.
Budget and Budget Narrative
The budget and budget narrative section is the description and breakdown
of the financial considerations of the proposal (e.g., equipment, training
expenses, construction, administrative costs, etc.). Include a spreadsheet
of expenses as an implementation budget. The narrative should compliment
and match the program description.
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