Writing Your First Grant -- the Henry Luce Foundation
The Luce Indigenous Knowledge Fellowship opportunity will support the work of 10 Indigenous knowledge holders. The fellowship will provide each individual with $50,000 for one year of meaningful work that benefits native peoples and communities in urban and rural settings. This opportunity is made possible by the First Nations Development Institute and The Henry Luce Foundation.
To support this initiative, Paper Moon Services is offering assistance free of charge to qualifying individuals. Send us a message to get started.
Applying for your First Grant
There are thousands of questions that come up, particularly when tackling your first grant. It can be overwhelming, imposter syndrom is real, and the pressure to make everything perfect is high. But, if you approach things practically, the process is easily achievable. Trust in your work, you got this. Here are a few guiding questions to get you started.
Am I ready and able to apply?
Yes, you are. Applying for your first grant is challenging, but if you have passion and knowledge to share, then you are ready. Still feeling uncertain? Paper Moon is offering free coaching, assistance, cheerleading or editing to anyone applying for this opportunity. Click here to send us a message to get started.
Where do I start?
Start by reading the application in full. To do this, you’ll need to create a username and password to access the grant portal. Easy! The next thing to do is write down the deadline, including the hour and time zone. Write it down in your calendar, on your palm, on your mirror in lipstick, and tell your favourite aunties to remind you.
Pre-writing brainstorming
Before you set digital pen to digital paper, you need to have a very clear idea of what you’re going to propose. This grant is about Indigenous knowledge, not your skills that support or share your knowledge, so start by identifying what knowledge you have, where it came from, and why it is important that it is shared. Once you’ve pinpointed your specialty, start listing the other aspects of your work: what/which communities are you serving? Where are they? How do you connect with them? From here, it’s easy to follow up with experience, success you’ve had in the past, and mentors, partners, leaders, and more who support your growth in this field.
Writing
Writing is my least favourite part of any grant processes. Sometimes we are so familiar with our mission that we omit crucial details about our work, or inversely we are so passionate that it comes across tacky on the page. Draft an outline with every detail the grant application asks for, and then fill it in with what you’ve brainstormed. Write slowly, and take a step back whenever you need fresh eyes. If you need help editing, try the Hemmingway App. It is an AI, so take all feedback with a grain of salt. Remember to follow your gut, and let your voice come through.
Supporting Documents
In addition to your grant itself, you will need to attach your resume, letters of recommendation, a photograph, and other documents outlined in the application. It is crucial to identify two individuals who can write strong letters of recommendation that speak to your knowledge and work. Give them time to write, and be prepared to answer any questions they have. You should request letters of recommendation 10 days in advance.
You should also have a clear to read, current resume. If you need help proofing your CV try Resume Worded. They provide examples, point out buzzwords, scan your resume for clarity, and can instruct you on areas for improvement.
Submit when you’re ready, and good luck!
Double, tripple and quadruple check that you have the latest version of your application, and all documents attached. If you’re having trouble getting started, facing writers block, or just want a final set of eyes, we’re here to help.