Division of Criminal Justice Services

Grantsmanship Tips

A successful grant-funded program depends in large part upon compliance with contract stipulations. The Top-Ten List of Common Audit Findings (PDF) | (DOC) will guide grantees in developing reporting and accounting practices that will help avoid negative audit findings. You may also download a Self-Audit Checklist (PDF) | (DOC) to help you track the accomplishment of contract requirements.

Message to Prospective Grantees. Useful pointers for those charged with the task of securing grant funding for their agency or organization.

We also have a useful guide for grantees who are writing goals and objectives, and a Logic Model to assist in Program Development.

How to Improve Your Chances to Win a Competitively-Awarded Grant!

  • In anticipation of any Request-for-Proposal (RFP) that will be released, review information such as state plans, strategies, or annual reports that pertain to the type of funds you wish to apply for.
  • Start early to prepare your application funding request. Be sure to file the application by the established deadline.
  • Identify the specific problem that requires grant funding and include relevant, current data and documentation to justify the need for grant funding.
  • To the extent possible, emphasize interagency collaboration and demonstrate community support for your proposed project.
  • Discuss your agency's qualifications and capacity to implement project funds. Document its track record in program administration.
  • Discuss how the proposed project is within your agency's mandate or area of expertise.
  • Submit a budget that clearly supports the proposed project. The budget should be reasonable and realistic.
  • Include an evaluation plan to assess project's effectiveness. Be sure to include a plan to disseminate program results.
  • Include a plan to institutionalize the program once grant funds are no longer available.
  • Discuss how the project can be replicated by other communities in New York State.