_
Grant matching
When seeking grants to fund classroom technology purchases, you may find that a single grant may not cover everything you need. But remember that many funding providers will match the funds you’ve raised or received from other organizations. Keep the following tips in mind when seeking funds from multiple sources.
Categorize your requirements before you begin
Before you start to source grant funding, divide proposed expenditures into categories so you can target grants to cover each area. For example, you might approach one funding agency for professional development assistance and different organizations for equipment, software and networking services.
Consider more than just hardware
Internet connectivity accounts for a small but significant portion of the total budget. It is estimated that 8 percent of the budget will go to initial lab or classroom installation with an additional 15 percent required for ongoing costs.
Training can easily make up the rest of your budget. Depending on the number of teachers involved and the project's scope, you may have to broaden the funding search for this component. Luckily, many grant organizations are exclusively dedicated to funding training programs.
Tap community resources
Involving everyone with an interest in your project, from parents and teachers to community stakeholders, will help make the application process easier. Try to find a parent or community volunteer willing to help you research or write your grant applications.
Share our tips for writing grants to help educate your recruits.
Remember your contribution
When matching resources with funding organizations, you will want to factor in the teacher salaries, facility costs and school supplies that you are dedicating to your technology project. Don’t forget to include these costs on your grant application as part of your school’s financial commitment.
Research the foundation’s matching criteria
If you are considering applying for several related grants, spend a few minutes checking their matching criteria beforehand in case there are specific guidelines.
There are many private foundations you can approach for funding and countless grant combination possibilities – browse the grant database for some potential partners.
