What are the best practices for aligning your K-12 project proposal with a funder's mission and values?

1 Research potential funders

Before you start writing your proposal, you need to identify and research potential funders that match your project's goals, objectives, and outcomes. You can use online databases, such as GrantWatch, Edutopia, or GetEdFunding, to search for grants by category, keyword, or deadline. You can also network with other educators, organizations, or experts in your field to learn about funding opportunities. Once you have a list of potential funders, visit their websites and read their mission statements, funding priorities, eligibility criteria, and application guidelines. This will help you understand what they are looking for and how to tailor your proposal accordingly.

2 Craft your project narrative

Your project narrative is the core of your proposal, and it should be clear, concise, and compelling. It should address the problem or need that your project aims to address, your project's goals and objectives, how it aligns with the funder's mission and values, the activities and strategies you will use to achieve your goals and objectives, how you will measure and evaluate your project's impact and effectiveness, and how you will sustain your project after the funding period ends.

3 Demonstrate your impact

When evaluating proposals, funders consider the impact that your project will have on students, schools, communities, or fields. To demonstrate that your project is relevant, feasible, and scalable, use data, evidence, and testimonials to support your claims. Statistics or research can show the problem or need that your project addresses. Data or examples can demonstrate the success or potential of your project or similar projects. Testimonials or quotes from students, colleagues, or partners can show the value or benefit of your project. Charts, graphs, or tables can illustrate the expected outcomes or indicators of your project.

4 Communicate your alignment

When submitting a proposal, it is essential to communicate your alignment with the funder's mission and values. To do this, you can use language and terminology that reflects the funder's, as well as references and citations that demonstrate your knowledge of the funder's work. Additionally, provide examples or stories that illustrate how your project relates to the funder's mission or values. Finally, it is important to express your appreciation and gratitude for the funder's support or opportunity.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?