basics of grant writing - railslibraries.info · 1/20/2016 11 other additions resumes letters of...
TRANSCRIPT
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Basics of Grant Writing
Stacy Michel, Public Programs Manager,
Gail Borden Public Library District
Grant Writing Experience
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Agenda
� How to assess and plan your project
� Basic elements of a grant proposal
� What funders look for
� Become confident in your grant writing skills
Face Your Fears
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Grant Writing for Libraries
Initial Assessment
1. Are we eligible and capable?
2. What is the maximum award offered?
3. Can we meet the deadline?
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Project Planning
� Form project team
� Do a cost-benefit analysis
� Set a timetable
� Read instructions carefully
� Brainstorm
� Identify sources of data
� Secure partners
Possible Partners
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Outline the Proposal
� Need
� Description
� Keywords
� Target Audience
� Goals
� Measurable Outcomes
� Activities
� Resources
� Cost
� Partners
� Evaluation
Writing Process
� Summary
� Needs Statement
� Narrative
� Project Plan
� Timeline
� Budget
� Evaluation
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Summary
Example Summary
The Gail’s Toolkit project will support librarians
in meeting the growing demand for digital
literacy training through a two-year plan (April
2015-March 2017). Customizable instructional
content can be downloaded and used to
provide digital literacy classes at libraries of all
sizes and types. This model will reduce staff
costs and improve efficiency and quality, while
enhancing life skills and narrowing the digital
divide.
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Needs Statement
� Align mission and goals
� Use evidence
� Identify community members and
boundaries
� Identify gaps
� Avoid acronyms
� Don’t mention project yet
Narrative
� Goals
� Target Audience
� Implementation Plan
� Timeline
� Partners
� Marketing Plan
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S.M.A.R.T. Goals
Narrative - Tips
� Use their jargon
� Identify staff and partners
� Publicity
� Sustainability
� Edit!
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Project Plan
Timeline
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Budget
� Personnel Costs
� Marketing
� Travel
� Supplies
� Equipment
� Contractual Fees
� In-kind contributions
Evaluation
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Other Additions
� Resumes
� Letters of recommendation
� Letters of support
Final Steps
� Know your deadline
� Create a project title
� Ask someone to proofread
� Be clear, precise, and persuasive
� Get authorized signatures
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What Do Funders Look For
� A clear need
� What’s in it for them
� A known and reliable grantee
� Proof of impact
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Grant Writing Mistakes
� Not following directions
� Incorrect budget
� Poorly written narrative
� More information than needed
� No contact with funder
Congratulations!
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Progress Reports
Final Report
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Ripple Effects
Overall Tips
� Look for learning opportunities
� Follow the process
� Stay positive
� Network
� Dive in!
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Thank You!
Stacy Michel
www.gailstoolkit.com
GET ON OUR EMAIL LIST!