Guidelines for Writing an El/Civics Grant

This guide was designed to assist you in satisfying EL/Civics grant requirements and to help you keep your narrative strong and relevant.

EXAMINE THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

First, read the RFP (Request for Proposal) closely to determine if your program has the capacity to meet the grant guidelines. Then FOLLOW the DOE’s format EXACTLY as outlined, using the funder’s terminology. Make a note of deadlines and create a timeline, taking care to schedule ample time for proofreading and editing.

Read the priority areas and considerations carefully. See Attachments A & B.

Click here for Attachment A

Click here for Attachment B

WORK FROM A STRATEGIC PLAN

You do not have to wait for the RFP to come out before taking action. Competitive grants are written from a strategic plan. Knowing that the RFPs (requests for proposals) are announced each spring, a savvy program manager will assemble a grant writing team at the start of the fiscal year to brainstorm several proposals. These projects should be the clear result of: internal needs as demonstrated by student performance data, professional development requirements, or instructional needs, such as integrating technology into instruction; and pressures external to the organization, such as a sudden shift in population demographics or massive layoffs in the community. When the RFPs are finally announced, a prepared team has done its research, solicited possible partners, and gathered all the elements to write a well-crafted grant.

• Begin Your Narrative by Summarizing Your Proposal
• Statement of Need
• Describe Your Organization’s Capacity and Commitment
• Project Design
• Outcomes
• Strengthen Your Proposal by Designing Your Project First, Writing Towards Your Goals, and Considering Your Evaluation Methods
• Evaluation: Assessing Your Success
• Budget Narrative and Budget Forms
• About Matching Funds
• Compile All Your Materials as Instructed
• Positioning Grant Writers for Success

Click here to download Full Document (pdf)