Grant submission and writing checklist

The project purpose is clearly described

The need for the project is convincing

The work done to date is summarized

The project goals & objectives are clear -  the objectives are listed in a logical order,  the objectives are specific & measurable, each objective supports a specific goal, the outcomes can be realistically achieved

The impact of grant funds is fully explained

Plans are presented for sustaining the project after the grant period

Plans are presented for publicizing the grant & its accomplishments (if required)

A timetable, with adequate time for the accomplishment of goals

A description of the work to be performed by key personnel

A schedule for consultant visits/advisory meetings & explanation for their necessity

A demonstration of PI’s experience with techniques to be used, or examples of their successful use by others. Confirmation that generally accepted standards will be followed.

An assessment of potential problem areas & ways to address them during the grant

A confirmation that the necessary parties will cooperate & support the goals 

An awareness of similar projects & reasons for their success or failure

A description of any follow-up to occur after project completion

Samples of forms, finding aid formats, etc., to be used or created 

Includes the names, qualifications & duties of all known key personnel 

Explains that staff qualifications are appropriate for the duties assigned

Includes job descriptions & qualifications for all positions to be filled

Describes how a wide search for the most qualified candidates will take place 

Notes the names & qualifications of paid or non-paid advisors to the project

Indicates the uses for grant funds

Includes costs to be met by applicant or other institutions

Explains budget figures (e.g., breakdown of travel costs or consultants’ daily rates) 

Accounts for all expenditures in the proposal narrative

Includes a separate budget form for each year of a project lasting 18 months or longer & a grand total at the end of the budget form used for the final year (when applicable)

Includes appropriate cost-sharing or matching funds (when applicable)

Demonstrates efforts to achieve maximum economy in achieving project goals 

Adds up!

An evaluation plan that matches the list of measurable objectives & goals

A description of how data will be gathered, by whom & release date for final report

Evidence of careful consideration as to the purpose, audience, scope, & content of any intended product

Descriptions & justification of the format, content & distribution plans for publications 

Descriptions of methods to be used in preparing & microfilming/digitizing records