Applying for a Professional Development Grant

The steps below are based on seven basic steps of grant writing, which can be used in any grant application process, with information specific to the Education Minnesota Foundation process.

Step 1
Read the application and read it again. Note any questions you have about the application process, and either call or write the grant administrator to get your questions answered. You can contact our Foundation coordinator, Sara Ford, at 800-652-9073 or 651-292-4834.

Step 2
Brainstorm your idea for a project with this question as a central focus: What do you need and why do you need it? This is Question 1 on our Grant Application. Researching and discussing this idea will focus your efforts on your needs.

If you have determined that your proposal will go only to the Foundation for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, go to Step 4. If you hope to seek funds from multiple sources, this next tip is for you.

Step 3
Shop around and “try out” different funders. Online searches can be helpful if you can focus your search. When you find a potential “match,” learn everything you can about that source. Get a copy of the annual report, descriptions of former awards and projects, and the RFP, or request for proposal. Get to know the office staff with a brief introductory call to clarify any questions you have.

(Reminder: Have you contacted your MSCF/UEA president?)

Step 4
Ready to write? With application and directions at your side, prepare your first draft. Remember to answer the questions as asked. No more, no less.

Once you have prepared the document, you should be able to answer questions about the application, if any arise. For Education Minnesota’s Foundation, carefully follow our Do and Don’t lists. Be sure to have someone edit for grammar, style and content. Can a non-educator understand what you hope to do? Don’t use jargon.

Step 5
Prepare your budget. Charts, spreadsheets and tables are easier to read than paragraphs. Follow the application directions precisely. For Education Minnesota’s Foundation, a simple chart or table that includes closely approximated costs and likely vendors is adequate. Requesting additional funds from your college, university or other sources is viewed as a plus by our Foundation. We also require that you verify any additional funding you receive if we award you a grant.

If exact cost, applicable taxes and precise vendor information are requested, you must supply them. In a budget chart, you may need to include any other funds you have received, applied for or will apply for; these are called matching funds or contributions (non-monetary, e.g., volunteer time or donated materials). You may be required to write additional, narrative explanations.

And, lastly, check your figures. Do not make a request for more than the stated limits.

Step 6
Details, details. Re-read your application and then submit it in the manner required. Do not send more than requested, and send as many copies as requested. Personally take it to the post office and get a receipt or keep the fax verification. If you hand deliver, get a receipt. Be sure you check whether the deadline is a postmark or a “received by” date. Our Foundation deadline specifies “postmark or fax by.”

Are follow-ups OK? It depends on the organization. We will send you an e-mail verifying receipt of your application. If an award date is specified and you have not heard anything within two to three weeks of that date, you might want to call or e-mail the contact.

This Foundation will review grant applications not awarded and provide suggestions for improvement, at your request.

September 17, 2010