Grants

Grants & External Funding


Whether you have identified a grant opportunity or are exploring funding for a Walters State project or initiative, the Grant Writer in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Compliance can help determine whether a competitive grant is an appropriate funding strategy. If it is, we will guide you through the proposal development process.

The best time to contact the Grant Writer is as early as possible – even if you are still exploring a project or considering a funding opportunity. Starting early provides more time for project planning, proposal development, institutional review, and timely submission before the funder's deadline.

 

Getting Started

The easiest way to begin is by emailing the Grant Writer.

Emailing first allows the Grant Writer to review the opportunity or project before discussing next steps. 

Please include:

  • A brief description of your project, initiative, or funding need
  • A link to the funding opportunity (if available)
  • Any questions you would like to discuss

Contact: 
Leah Holt, Grant Writer
Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Compliance
leah.holtFREEWS

 

Could a Grant Be the Right Solution?

The Grant Writer leads the development and submission of competitive external grant proposals that support Walters State's mission and strategic priorities.

A grant might be a good solution if you are seeking funding for activities like:

  • Starting or expanding a program
  • Launching a new initiative
  • Purchasing equipment for an institutional project
  • Improving services for students
  • Addressing an institutional need through external funding

The Grant Writer does not coordinate: 

  • Individual faculty research grants
  • Conference travel funding
  • Stand-alone professional development grants
  • Student scholarships or financial aid
  • Awards and recognition nominations

 

How the Grant Writer Supports Grant Development

The Grant Writer supports competitive grant development by:

  • Identifying funding opportunities
  • Facilitating project planning
  • Coordinating proposal development
  • Writing competitive grant proposals
  • Managing proposal submission
  • Providing strategic guidance throughout the grant lifecycle

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 
 
Who can apply for a grant?

The Grant Writer coordinates grant proposals submitted on behalf of Walters State Community College and the Walters State Community College Foundation. 

Faculty and staff with a project or initiative that supports the College's mission are encouraged to contact the Grant Writer to discuss potential funding opportunities.

How early should I contact the Grant Writer?

As early as possible. 

Every grant opportunity is different, and starting early allows time to develop the project, gather supporting information, build partnerships, complete the institutional review process, and prepare a competitive proposal before the funder's deadline.

I found a grant opportunity. What should I do next?

Contact the Grant Writer.

We will review the funding opportunity, determine whether it is a good fit for Walters State, and discuss the next steps with you.

I have never written a grant before. Is that a problem?

Not at all. 

A lot of faculty and staff have never written a grant proposal. Grant proposals are developed collaboratively – you provide the project expertise, and the Grant Writer provides expertise in proposal development.

I have a project or initiative that needs funding. How do I know if it is a good candidate for a grant?

Not every project is a good fit for external funding, but we are happy to discuss your project. 

We will help determine whether a grant is an appropriate funding strategy and, if appropriate, explore potential funding opportunities.

Can the Grant Writer help me find funding opportunities?

Yes. 

The Grant Writer identifies and shares competitive funding opportunities and can also help explore potential funding sources for projects that align with Walters State's mission and strategic priorities.

What kinds of grants does the Grant Writer support?

The Grant Writer primarily coordinates competitive external grant opportunities from federal, state, foundation, corporate, nonprofit, and other funding organizations that support Walters State's mission and strategic priorities.

Does the Grant Writer write the proposal?

Grant proposals are developed through collaboration.

Project teams provide the subject matter expertise, define the project goals, and help shape the proposed activities, while the Grant Writer coordinates proposal development, prepares the grant narrative and supporting materials, and, in most cases, manages proposal submission.

How long does the grant development process take?

Every grant opportunity is different. 

The amount of time needed depends on the complexity of the project, the funder's requirements, and the proposal deadline, which is why early planning is encouraged whenever possible.

Can every project be funded through a grant?

No. Grant funding is highly competitive, and not every project aligns with a funder's priorities. 

The Grant Writer can help determine whether a grant is a good fit for your project and identify potential funding opportunities when appropriate.

What if my funding request is not something the Grant Writer coordinates?

Some funding opportunities – such as faculty research grants, conference travel funding, professional development grants, student scholarships, and award nominations – are typically coordinated by other offices or departments. 

If you are unsure where to start, contact the Grant Writer before investing significant time, and we will help determine whether your project falls within our scope or direct you to the appropriate office.