Getting Funded: How it Works

Funded projects can start with an original idea, or an idea adapted from another institution. The project can enable you to create something new or improve and enhance ongoing programs. Sometimes a project starts when you've come across a Request for Proposals (RFP) that fits squarely with the work and priorities of your department.  

In all instances, the first step in developing a grant application at College of DuPage is to review Questions to Answer When Seeking a Grant to formulate your concept. Make sure that the concept is approved by your dean or administrator before you contact the Grants Office.  

If you have a funding source/opportunity in mind (an interest in funding expressed by a governmental entity, foundation or corporation, or issued through an RFP) that complements your idea, you or another qualified individual will work with the Grants Office as the project director.  

If you have an idea, but no funding sources in mind, the Grants Office will search for funding on your behalf. Depending on the project, this could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The Grants Office attempts to respond as quickly as possible to all requests for assistance.  

Once a suitable funding source or RFP has been identified, the RFP will be distributed to all interested parties by the Grants Coordinator.  A Grant Writer is assigned and a Grant Accountant will be engaged to collaborate with you on the project.  

Pending full approval of the concept by the dean or cabinet member, and approval of any cash match or in-kind requirements stipulated by the RFP, the Grant Writer or Director of Grants will schedule a meeting for all interested parties to begin the grant development process. Depending on the scope of your project, the Information Technology and Research and Planning departments or other departments will be asked to attend and provide input.  

The project director will work with the Grant Writer to develop the application narrative and the Grant Accountant to complete the budget in response to the particulars of the RFP. Cabinet always approves the budget match in instances where one is called for. In relation to the financial and programmatic aspects of the project, it is also important to plan in advance for how the project, or key elements of the project, will be sustained and/or institutionalized after the grant funding period ends.  

Some funders accept grant proposals only from 501(c)3  tax-exempt, non-profit organizations. Under these circumstances, you will work with the grants team to submit your proposal through the College of DuPage Foundation. Your concept will also be discussed, evaluated and approved in relation to the College of DuPage Foundation’s strategic plan.  

The Grants Coordinator will package and submit the completed document. Then we wait for a response, which typically takes between three to six months. The response usually occurs via a written letter, sometimes it takes the form of a phone call. It is imperative to alert the Grants Coordinator at Ext. 3021 when you receive word.  

The Grants Coordinator will then notify all involved. After the grant contract is reviewed and signed, the President issues a college-wide announcement. Depending on the project, the Grants Coordinator then schedules a Post Award Meeting to kick off project implementation.

 

What is an RFP?
An RFP, or Request for Proposals, is the document that a funder develops to announce its intent to award funds. It includes the details of how the funder would like your application to be structured, where to send it, and often information such as how many dollars are available.  

Grant Guidelines
Some funders do not issue RFPs, but merely provide standing Grant Guidelines that include information comparable to that found in an RFP. The guidelines are most often listed on a web site, or can be obtained by calling the funder directly.  

Funding Sources
Grant dollars for College of DuPage projects typically originate from federal, state, private foundation or corporate sources.  

Rely on Us
The College of DuPage Grants Team is adept at assessing and responding to RFPs and Grant Guidelines. Remember that all grant proposals are to be coordinated through our office.