Grant writing for all its mystique, is essentially a form of communication. As in all good communication, the grant writer needs to know whom to connect with, what must be accomplished in the process and what to include to support the objective with the identified audience.
Writing grants, like any kind of writing, recalls the old saw about “10% inspiration and 90% perspiration.” While there is an element of strategy, writing successful grants generally depends more on meticulously following the grantors’ instructions and analyzing their true desires. Whether you are applying for funding of construction, training, advocacy efforts, or volunteer support, you will find that most grant programs have significant aspects in common. Here is a checklist with important questions to ask when writing applications for grants
Many “how-to” guides focus on the mechanics of grantwriting. If you’re not sure about your writing skills, by all means take a good class. But generally it’s not that hard to write a good proposal—assuming you have a strong program to back it up. The core elements are usually the same: a summary (or abstract), statement of need, goals and objectives (keep them specific, attainable and measureable!), strategies (or methods), evaluation, bios/background and budget.
There are a variety of places to look for funds; it’s often just a matter of knowing where to look.
An introduction to Access Philanthropy and a presentation covering trends in corporate philanthropy; geographic and other differences between national and local donors; your value to donors; a few key stats; and 50 different corporation giving programs.
Michigan’s Coastal Management Program was developed under the federal Coastal Zone Management Act and approved in 1978. Since then, the Program has assisted organizations in protecting and enhancing their coastal areas, funded studies related to coastal management and helped to increase recreational opportunities in Michigan’s Great Lakes coastal area.
A comprehensive list of funding sources for non-motorized facility development.
Michigan currently has a tremendous set of financial, institutional, and stakeholder resources that have helped make us a national leader in rail-trail development. Building on the resources outlined below and adding innovative new tools will enable us to reach the goals identified in this coordinated state wide trails vision.
