Articles

The following articles are hand picked by Bo Morton, Director of Grants, and updated each month. Various topics are addressed by experienced grant writers and consultants which will assist you in your grantsmanship efforts. Take a look at the descriptions and follow the links below to read the suggested articles for this month:

"Hard Data/Soft Data: How they help you build strong proposals" By: Norton Kiritz

This article explains the differences between the two types of data and how each should be used to strengthen proposals. Several examples/quotations are presented to the reader in various contexts, providing useful "do's and don'ts" for each type.

"One Program Officer's Candid Tips for Grantseekers" Adapted from the remarks of Dr. Joel Orosz by the Grantsmanship Center

This article provides straight forward advice regarding relationships with founders on how to create an effective proposal from an insider's perspective. Topics covered include: How to approach a foundation, what you should know about foundation operations, and twelve characteristics of a great proposal.

"Grant Tracking and Compliance Management" By: Henry Flood

Here you will find a short article regarding the tracking of grants and compliance. A list of key questions provides a useful list to begin this managerial process.

"Contracts vs. Grants" By: Henry Flood

Fundamental similarities and differences between federal contracts and federal grants. Aside from the facts, statements such as "more flexible" and "more rigorous" shed light on less commonly known aspects. Also discusses the federal procurement system, large bids, and negotiated acquisitions.

“Purdue Proposal Enhancement Tools”:

This article contains exercises and questions to help your development as a grant writer and gain an edge in your proposals.
It focuses on three key elements: target audiences, anticipated impact and evaluation methods. It also contains valuable
information regarding analysis, organization and the movement from general concepts to specificity.

“Indirect Costs” By: Michael Wells

Read this article to gain clarity on the functions of indirect costs and to understand the two methods federal government use to
calculate your indirect costs specifically. You will also find information about how indirect rates are negotiated, the types of rates
that exist and who to contact for more information.

“Does Your Proposal Pass the Who Cares Test?” By: Bruce Ripley

This article addresses some key factors in making your proposal stand out. Topics range from challenging assumptions from all
angles to tips on style and readability.

“Utilization-Focused Evaluation (U-FE) Checklist” By: Michael Quinn Patton

Here you will find a comprehensive and insightful explanation of utilization-focused evaluation, and a 12-part checklist to guide you
through the U-FE process. The U-FE evaluation process focuses on intended use by intended users, and explicit, underlying premises
are explained for each step. A highly useful tool for the evaluation facilitator or anyone involved with evaluations.