Ready to Apply for a Grant?

Following these steps will help you develop a strong application:

READY…

Phase 1 – Purpose & Assurances

  1. Before you apply for a grant, make sure your idea or activity aligns with the division’s strategic plan.
  2. If you answer “Yes” to any of the following questions, contact Helen Dunn (hdunn@k12albemarle.org) before you proceed:
    • Will the grant have school-wide or division-wide impact?
    • Does the grant exceed $5,000?
    • Does the grant require the school division to contribute funds?
  3. If the grant includes purchasing or receiving new technology, contact Gene Osborn (gosborn@k12albemarle.org), Assistant Director for Technology Integration, before you proceed.

SET…

Phase 2 – The Application

  1. When you’re ready to develop your grant application, start by building a budget. Here’s an Excel template to help you get started.
  2. Submit your budget for review and approval to grantbudgets@k12albemarle.org.
  3. Once you have a budget, write your proposal or complete the grant application.
    • Successful grant proposals generally request financial assistance for programs, experiences, or opportunities for students, rather than stuff.
    • A strong grant proposal shows a potential funder what students will be doing and how they will benefit, should the grant be awarded.
    • Unsuccessful grant proposals often include expenses for food or construction, which is unattractive to most funders.

GO…

Phase 3 – Implementation & Reporting

  1. Congratulations, you’ve been awarded a grant! Forward a copy of the award letter to Fiscal Services. (Either send a hard copy through the Pony or email an electronic copy to grantbudgets@k12albemarle.org.)
    • It can take up to 45 days for your grant funds to become available.
    • Your grant will be assigned to a Grant Manager, who will contact you when your funds are available.
    • If the award check comes to you, forward the original check to Fiscal Services (Attn: Grant Manager).
  2. Spend the money.
    • Returning grant funds is not only embarrassing, but it also decreases the chances a funder will work with us in the future and creates unnecessary work for Fiscal Services.
    • Send invoices, payroll material, and any original receipts to your Grant Manager.

Please direct general questions about grants or the grant process to Helen Dunn, Legislative & Public Affairs Officer, at hdunn@k12albemarle.org or (434) 975-9452.