Office of Research, Evaluation and Policy Studies

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Grant Application

When preparing a grant application it is important to determine the criteria of the funding agency. A careful check should be made among public and private agencies to establish the uniqueness of the idea to be presented. The grant application process should consider the following:

• Request for Proposal Review
  The request for proposal (RFP) is a document containing current information about issues of a grant. The RFP provides information so that researchers, program directors, and others can present a proposal on how they will address the needs of the grant.
• Grant Funds Applications Development
  Grant funds applications are available through federal agencies that offer financial opportunities based on funding availability to advance knowledge as a result of specific research. Applicants should remember that the basic requirements, application forms, information, and procedures vary depending on the federal agency making the grant award.
• Logic Modeling

  A logic model describes the sequence of steps needed for planning, implementing, and evaluating a program; conducting research; or writing a grant application. While it requires more thought and work, it is well worth the effort. The logic model presents a clear framework for what you are doing, why you are doing it, how you are going to accomplish it, and how you are going to evaluate it.

  • Logic models are useful for evaluation purposes because they clearly define the needs assessment, goals, objectives, activities, and process measures.
  • Logic models can be used in writing grant applications. They outline the needs, goals, objectives, short- and long-term activities, partners, and process measures. Gaps in needs and activities can easily be identified with the logic model. It is also a useful reference when the grant is awarded and all activities must be accounted for during implementation.
• Evaluation Plans
  A proper evaluation plan is critical to the success of any project, whether it is research or program implementation. The plan describes how you will know if you met your objectives and if your project was successful. Evaluation plans should contain both formative and summative evaluation. Formative evaluation consists of continuous monitoring of your project. Summative evaluation is assessing whether the project achieved what it originally proposed. Planning for evaluation should occur as part of the other planned activities associated with project start-up.
• Grant Writing & Development
  A successful grant proposal requires planning to concisely package the requirements in the mandatory format. The applicant should become familiar with the criteria of the opportunity sought by looking at the Request for Proposal (RFP) presented by the agency. The RFP contains information such as whether funding is available, when applicable deadlines occur, and the process used by the grantor agency for accepting applications.