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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

smichel@gailborden.info

www.gailstoolkit.com

GET ON OUR EMAIL LIST!

teched@gailborden.info