MSUM Grants Process from A-Z
Step 1 - Identification of Project/Program for which funding is sought -It is not an overstatement to say that virtually any project has a potential funding source in the public and/or private sector. Whether it is a few thousand dollars to support a conference or two million dollars for a new program with the construction of a building, properly prepared grants to appropriate agencies have the potential for success.
Grant assistance is provided through:
Alumni Foundation Office - Owens 202, 477-2093
The Alumni Foundation provides assistance for those seeking funds from an area foundation or a local business or corporation for projects generally under $100,000.
If you are considering applying for an National Science Foundation Grant (NSF), you need to be entered into the NSF FastLane database. Send the following information to Brittney Goodman, Associate Vice President for Instructional Resources: name, telephone number, FAX number, highest degree earned and date received, social security number and a preferred password.
Step 2 -Finding the Appropriate Source(s) – Once a project/program for funding is identified, individuals are encouraged to explore sources using this website. Each source will delineate their funding priorities, areas not fundable, their grant process and deadlines for submission. As an agency’s funding priorities are examined, individuals should consider if their project could be modified to meet funding criteria without compromising project objectives. Foundations based in Minnesota are a good first step in the source exploration. Do not hesitate to contact the granting agency for assistance.
Step 3 -Selection of Grant Program(s) and Discussion with Dean/Director -Once an individual has determined the sources to be pursued, it is imperative that the budgetary implications of the grant are determined through discussions with your Dean or Director. The need for match, additional staff and release time are possible items for consideration.
Step 4 -Preparation of Grant – FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS!! This website provides links to a number of documents on how to write grants. One of the biggest mistakes made by applicants is not to give the information requested by the granting agency. If you have questions on a grant, contact the granting agency.
Step 5 -Preparation of Budget – More grants are denied for having too small a budget than too large. Too small may indicate to review groups that you do not fully understand all that is involved in the project. Refer to Budget Preparation for more information on budgetary procedures.
Step 6 -Submission of Final Grant to Administration for Approval - ALL final grant proposals must be submitted with the MSUM Approval Form for Contracts, Grants and Contributions accessed through this website. After approval by the President, the grant will be returned to the individual applicant who is responsible for transmitting the grant. Assistance for the electronic transmission of a grant can be obtained through the Grants Officer, Brittney Goodman (477-2923).
Step 7 – Notification of Grant Award – The notice of grant award is often received by the President of the University and/or by the grant recipient. At that point it is the responsibility of the Project Director to initiate public relations activity with Kristi Monson in the Publications Office (477-2110).
Step 8 - Grants Management - The Grants Management process begins by contacting Diane Schoenecker in the Business Office (477-2089) to set up an account.
Step 10 - Final Report - Submit all final reports required by the granting agency in a timely manner. Failure to do so could jeopardize future grants.