How to Write a Grant Proposal for a Private K-12 School

Writing a grant proposal for K-12 private schools.

While there are many grants available for K-12 schools ranging from curriculum to technology, private schools are more challenged in the number of funding pools they can draw from. There are however, many grant sources out there that will fund private school programs as long as a need can be demonstrated through an effectively written proposal.

Things You'll Need

• PC or Mac
• Internet access

Instructions

1. Get together all information needed for the project in which funding is sought. Include names and contact information, supplier contacts, names, addresses and professional credentials of trustees and committee members, along with any other people involved with the project. If partnerships are involved, get all the information together on the partnership-- institution names, articles of incorporation or non-profit number, and names of lead contact people.

2. Write an executive summary-- it is likely probably the most relevant piece of project information in the entire proposal, because it provide reviewers with the most information on the overall project's scope and idea. It should summarize all key information through carefully crafted statements of the project's purpose, vision, and overall mission in as few words as possible. Include any related history and activities to be carried out.

3. Write a separate statement of need. Communicate passionately why this need is greater than the needs of other projects. Often project reviewers lean in favor of projects with the most pressing and urgent needs. Be clear about why and what the project is needed for, along with how it will address these stated problems in the school, community or agency seeking the funding.

4. Write the project description. Include clear objectives that can be measured for results. For example, if the project involves curriculum for students, include objectives such as "Students will show improved test results in reading and math as a result of..."--this is a measureable objective. Include all methods used to achieve the objectives to include consultant sessions delivered, methods for evaluation, and project sustainability, or how it will sustain funding beyond the term of the grant.

5. List out everything needed to be purchased for the budget section. Include all tangible and intangible items, such as consultants, personnel services, and curriculum. List any matching funds. Include contributions from other organizations, such as any in-kind contributions (through service versus money). Keep the budget reasonable, and don't ask for more than what is needed for the project.

Tips & Warnings

• Seek out partnerships for your project when possible from entities outside of the school community, such as business or non-profit partnerships.

References

• SchoolGrants.org: Grants
• Foundationcenter.org: Getting Started on Grant Writing