Make a Splash application | Funding criteria | Grant writing tips
Project ideas | Frequently Asked Questions
To make sure your grant application receives the attention you want, please consider the following questions before you start writing.
Does this grant program fund your type of project?
- Read all grant materials.
- Make sure your project meets our goals and our funding focus.
Have you thought your project all the way through to the end?
- Think about your entire project.
- Will you need special permits or permission? (i.e., wetlands, private property, City rights-of-way)
- Are you going to need help from experts?
- Ask for advice. Talk with people who have done similar projects. Did they run into snags that you can avoid?
Exactly what is your project going to do?
- What is your goal?
- Is it realistic? Clear? Meaningful?
- How will your project meet that goal?
- Who is the target audience?
Exactly how are you going to do it?
- Who is going to do what and when.
- Are the tasks doable?
- Include a timeline or schedule. Think of the timeline as a reality check – how long will each step really take?
How is your project interesting and different?
- Is your proposal something original?
- Is it a project that can be copied easily by other groups?
Budget: How much is it going to cost?
- Be sure to go through the budget carefully.
- Is your budget well defined and realistic?
- Call around for the best prices.
- Itemize the costs and remember to include any applicable tax.
How about the application?
- It is important to answer all of the questions on the application. If you have any questions about the application, be sure to ask them before you turn in your application.
- Be sure to complete and submit a cover letter or other requested information.
You’ll be asked to submit a summary report after the project is done. Think now about how you’ll evaluate your project after its completion.
Successful projects happen with careful planning and the right resources. We hope these tips help you. If you have an idea you think will work but still are unsure how to get started, talk with us. Please contact Desiree Pooley, City of Tacoma Environmental Services, (253) 502-2126, or makeasplash@cityoftacoma.org.
The Make a Splash program is supported by user fees from the City's surface water utility.
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