Six Tips for Writing a Successful Spark Grant Application
Hopkins Education Foundation is proud to continue igniting a love of learning in our scholars and supporting our teachers as they explore innovative approaches to education. If you’re thinking of applying for a grant, then keep reading because this blog is for you. Grab your caffeinated beverage of choice (or herbal tea; we don’t judge), kick back, and take in these 6 tips from our Grants Committee.
1. Read the guidelines carefully
Urban Boat Builders, Alice Smith (2022)
Kind of obvious, but worth saying anyway. While our guidelines haven’t materially changed, we’ve updated some of the language for clarity based on feedback and questions we’ve gotten from applicants.
Pay special attention to the section about what we fund and how we prioritize projects. There have been some misunderstandings around that in the past, and we don’t want anyone left feeling frustrated.
2. Do your homework
Outdoor Pre-K, Gatewood (2023)
So teachers, now the tables have turned … (kidding!) There’s a common thread amongst successful applicants: they take the time to understand what we fund vs. what the district funds, as well as what grants we’ve funded recently.
Some applications are turned down because they include items the district is supposed to supply, so make sure you’re clear on the distinction. And please know that if your project is very similar to one we’ve funded in the past few years, it’ll get lower priority. You can check out Spark Grant history going back to 2021 here, and adjust your idea as needed. We’re looking to fund fresh, innovative ideas.
3. Help our reviewers remember you
Indoor Drumline, HHS (2024)
Some applicants over-think it and end up writing a novel in their application. That’s not necessary, and really, no fun for anyone. Keep it clear, concise, and punchy. Try to summarize the background and context around your idea in 2-3 sentences. And in most cases, a paragraph or two describing the project does the trick. Don’t be afraid to use AI tools here! They can make your writing more “nutrient dense” and save you a ton of time editing. Also, avoid educational jargon as much as possible, and be sure to define any acronyms. Grant reviewers are passionate about education, but most of us aren’t educators by trade – go easy on us 😉
4. Focus on impact and outcomes
Stem Corner, Tanglen (2022)
We treat each grant as an investment. As such, we’re keenly interested in the returns each investment promises to bring. Tell us how you’ll measure success in terms of tangible results. For example, a grant involving fidget spinners might measure success by a decrease in disruptive behavior in class. Success could also look like improved test scores, higher engagement in the classroom, or increased interest from students on a particular topic or area of study.
You don’t need to get super precise with numbers (e.g., 10% decrease in tardiness), but we’d like to see something beyond “students are using the items” or “the program was implemented.” Giving a student a calculator doesn’t make them better at math, but it breaks down barriers to learning. So tell us about that.
5. Use the concept form and treat it as a conversation
Chinese Learning Enrichment, HHS (2023)
The concept form is your chance to get some coaching. Unsurprisingly, applicants who engage in this (optional) part of the process tend to be more successful.
But don’t stress out over it! Give us the general outline of your idea, and we’ll help you shape it and strengthen it before submitting the full application. It’s perfectly ok to use the concept form to ask questions or seek clarification, then incorporate that feedback into your application.
6. Don’t be afraid to re-apply
Auquoponic Garden, West Middle (2016)
Do-overs are totally fair game. Just make sure you’ve incorporated the feedback from your first application. We see a number of repeat applications that were initially turned down because the timing wasn’t right, for example. If you’re ready to hit the ground running now, we encourage you to apply again.
Applications for Spark Grants are open now, through early October. Best of luck and best wishes to all applicants! We can’t wait to see what you’ve been dreaming up.
