What are Grants? Grants are money that is provided, through a competitive application process, from various programs through State, Federal, and Foundation and Corporate organizations. Federal grant programs are funded through taxes and portions of state funding are also from tax collections. The Federal Government also provides funding to the states through “block grants”. Foundation funding is provided through interest collected on endowments. Corporate foundations are required by law to provide a portion of their earnings to “Community projects”.

Benefits of Grants $$:

1. Expand or create new programs - i.e. Energy Efficient Construction program – revised Construction Technology program,
2. Purchase new equipment and supplies – i.e. Fiber Optics program.
3. Hire additional staff/faculty - i.e. Secretary, Program Director, coordinators, adjunct faculty, etc.
4. Provides stipend or additional funding for grant administration – During the nine-month semester year, all faculty are allowed to make up to a 25% increase in their salary.
5. Provides funding to market your program – publications, brochures, flyers
6. Assists in gaining promotions and tenure.
7. Provide travel funds to attend conferences to learn more about your particular program – i.e. National Endowment for Humanities - Landmarks of American History Workshops, Fulbright Fellowships & Seminars
8. Provides opportunities to develop partnerships with other colleges or community organizations.
9. Provides better educational opportunities for students.

How can I get a grant? First, discuss your idea with Michelle Patterson, Grants/Development Specialist. She will assist you in filing the necessary paper work which is the Grants Review and Approval form, Proposal Summary and Go-No/GO Quiz (for details see enclosed Grant Race presentation). After the project is approved by college officials Michelle will assist you with the proposal. With your expert information she will write the grant application, compile all the paperwork and mail it to the grant funding organization.

What happens if I get the grant? The faculty or staff that is designated as the Project Director will administer the grant activities. This usually involves writing quarterly reports to the funding agency and maintaining the time you or other faculty/staff contribute to the project. The Grants Department will assist you with this reporting information.

The next time you get an idea for a new program or need funding for equipment or supplies please contact Michelle Patterson, Grants/Development Specialist at ext. 738 or room E-107A