Officials and community partners gather in Sanford, N.C., to celebrate the $3.4 million 2022 RAISE grant awarded to N.C. Department of Transportation for the N.C. Regional S-Line Mobility Hub Plan.
After reviewing past grant application successes, the N.C. Department of Transportation has identified key strategies that can enhance the likelihood of securing competitive grant funding. While each grant opportunity is unique, these approaches have been observed in previous successful applications and serve as valuable guiding principles for future submissions.
Key Questions for
SUCCESSFUL PROJECT PLANNING
Is there a clearly defined scope of work and is the project feasible?
Who will deliver the project?
Is the facility being improved local or state-owned?
Does the local government have sufficient qualified staff to effectively manage and implement the project?
Is there an accurate project estimate?
Are there any identified sources of funding the local government controls? Is the funding flexible for when it can be used?
If the award is reduced from the initial request, is there a plan for gap funding? What happens if the costs exceed the estimated budget?
- Start early. Starting early on grant applications can significantly facilitate the development process.
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Align project with program requirements. Applicants should tailor the project to follow the specified guidelines, including cost sharing, eligible activities, and submission deadlines.
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Gain support. Reach out early to the local highway division representative and other relevant modal staff to inform them of the project, address any potential concerns, and secure their input and support.
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Develop a compelling narrative. The application narrative should be unique, compelling, and effectively tell the story of the project in a way that is both memorable and persuasive.
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Plan ahead financially. Analyze all funding sources to ensure the project meets all funding requirements and avoid unexpected financial challenges.
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Avoid common mistakes. Applicants must ensure they carefully read all the instructions and that their application meets every requirement to avoid preventable mistakes.