Analyzing the questions within the Wisconsin grant application form

Abstract

This paper analyzes the questions within the Wisconsin Common Grant Application (CGA) as well as methods for promoting the form as a teaching device to novice grant writers. A region of grantmakers within a state, region, or city adopt a CGA form for all grant writers to use. The form functions as a template for all grant writers, which makes the writing process more efficient. Nevertheless, not all grantmakers accept the CGA as a standard application because of complex guidelines their foundation has developed for selecting appropriate organizations to fund. I interviewed 9 grant writers from the Milwaukee and Manitowoc area and surveyed 9 grantmakers within the state of Wisconsin. They provided their prospective on the Wisconsin CGA for revisions as well as suggestions for promotion and education. Grant writers and grantmakers identified the Project/Program and Evaluation section for potential revisions. Furthermore, grant writers listed alternative options aside from a user guide. They preferred organizations and University as outlets within the state to promote the Wisconsin CGA. Solutions involve rephrasing or removing questions within the Project/Program and Evaluation sections. Tutorial videos accessed on the Wisconsin Philanthropy Network's website could assist grant writers in understand the Wisconsin CGA.