Grant Writing Program
The City of Fort St. John's Grant Writer Program is designed to support community groups and not-for-profit organizations in applying for grants. Through a third-party contractor, the assistance provided may include:
- finding suitable grants for a project
- assisting with grant applications
- assisting with additional documentation and technical requirements required by the funder (such as letters of support)
Program Eligibility
The Grant Writer Services program is available to community groups serving the Fort St. John area, including (but not limited to) not-for-profit registered societies or charities, religious groups, parent advisory councils, and emergency services associations. The proposed project, which requires funding, must benefit the Fort St. John area.
Understanding Grants
Understanding grants and their application processes is crucial for grant writing. This involves knowing where to find grant opportunities, creating compelling proposals, and being familiar with the different types of grants and their specific requirements. The Grant Writer Program assists in navigating these aspects, helping you be well-prepared before deadlines.
Grants differ from loans because they do not require repayment, though both may have conditions. Various funding agencies, such as government bodies, foundations, trusts, corporations, and cooperatives, offer grants, each with unique eligibility criteria and funding requirements. Some corporations may also engage in sponsorships, providing funding in exchange for branding opportunities.
Grants are available across numerous sectors, including agriculture, arts, business, health, and environmental conservation. Eligibility for these grants extends to a wide range of entities, from non-profits and businesses to government agencies and academic institutions. However, applicants should carefully review eligibility and matched funding requirements, where they might need to contribute a portion of the project costs.
Additionally, grant timelines and restrictions on how funds can be used are important considerations. Funders typically outline project start and completion dates and may restrict the use of funds for specific expenses. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial, as is fulfilling any reporting requirements, which often include progress and final reports detailing the use of funds and project outcomes.
Required Documents
While grants may vary on the required documents you must submit, it is important to have the following documents readily available:
- Financial statements (often from the past two fiscal years)
- Current organizational budget
- Annual Report
- Current Strategic Plan
- Organization Information (such as Bylaws)
- Letters of support (from local governments or partners)
- Board Resolution to show support for the project
Working with the Grant Writer
If your community group is eligible for the City's Grant Writer Program and you have identified a grant you want to apply for, or you are seeking funding for a project and need to find a suitable grant, complete these steps:
- Complete the Grant Writer Program Intake Form below
- Work with the Grant Writer to identify grants that fit within your program
- Report to the City of Fort St. John on the final result of any submitted grant applications and complete a short satisfaction survey
The City of Fort St. John is committed to protecting your privacy. Any personal information you provide to us is collected pursuant to 26(c) and 26(e) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the purpose of administering City services.
Should you have any questions about the collection of this personal information please contact the Corporate Officer.