How to convince reviewers of project sustainability

By Jim Abernathy, The Grantsmanship Center -

{Centered}: April 2013 (Vol. 6, No. 5) 

How to convince reviewers of project sustainability

Federal grantmaking agencies increasingly want applicants to show their ability to continue proposed projects beyond the life of the grant. Using the Department of Education Innovation Fund Start-Up grants program, by way of example, the article "Demonstrating Ongoing Impact of a Project Can Boost Proposal," (Local/State Funding Report, March 28, 2013) suggests ways to satisfy such requests. The agency wants to see a multi-year financial plan, demonstrated commitment of partners, and evidence of the broad support from stakeholders that projects need to succeed, and its reviewers look kindly on proposals that show past experience with models for sustaining funding. Those are just some of the nonfinancial factors that can demonstrate your sustainability to many types of grantmakers - foundations, as well as federal agencies. Others include: Strong, long-term relationships with other significant institutions working in the same field. Networks with businesses within your community. The infrastructure of personnel, leadership, and training you've built for your project. The knowledge you've gained through outreach efforts. Plans for continued use of materials and resources beyond the grant period.