Planning Resources
Ample time for planning often makes the difference between a high quality, fundable project and one that does not meet Ohio Humanities requirements. Because Ohio Humanities requires completed proposals months before projects are scheduled to begin, planning ahead is crucial for all grant applicants.
Contact a Program Officer
All applicants, and especially first-time grantwriters, are encouraged to contact Ohio Humanities staff for assistance during the planning and application process. The staff aims to encourage the best proposals possible. Ohio Humanities program officers are available to assist in planning activities by:
- Discussing project ideas;
- Suggesting appropriate humanities professionals;
- Identifying the appropriate grant line and/or special grant program;
- Reviewing drafts of grant proposals.
Should you require project planning assistance, please make a phone appointment with a program officer. This Project Planning Worksheet is a useful tool you can fill out in advance.
Project Planning Steps
1. Select the format that best serves your goals.
Cultural programs come in many forms. View this non-exhaustive list of program formats that Ohio Humanities grantees use to present humanities content.
2. Determine the role humanities professionals will play.
Whether scholars, community history specialists, or staffers of cultural and heritage organizations, humanities professionals can fill a variety of capacities in Ohio Humanities funded projects. For example, they can act as consultants, create interpretive content for print and digital media, or present public talks. Identify the roles best suited for the participating humanities professionals according to the needs of your project.
3. Develop a work plan.
Applicants should develop a timetable for research, planning, production, and presentation through to project completion. As much as possible, set the dates, times, and locations for the project activities and confirm the participation of key project personnel before submitting the finalized proposal for consideration.
4. Identify the proper grant line and relevant guidelines.
Information about the various grant lines and deadlines is available on the Grants Home page.
5. Identify project goals and outcomes.
Download the Project Planning Worksheet for guidance on identifying project goals and outcomes.