Grants FAQ
getting started
What is a grant?
A grant is funding awarded to support projects or initiatives that may not otherwise be funded through district budgets, federal grants, or other outside funding sources.
Who is eligible to apply for grants?
Any Fayetteville Public Schools teacher, faculty member, or staff member may apply. Organizations within or partnered with Fayetteville Public Schools, such as PTOs, may also apply.
How do I apply for a grant?
Visit our Grants page to explore available opportunities and determine which grant best fits your project. Each grant includes a link to its online application.
How long does the application process take?
Completing a grant application can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the scope and detail of your proposal. Applicants should also allow additional time for supervisory approval meetings and completion of the FPS Intent to Apply Form, which takes approximately 5 minutes.
Can I apply for multiple grants at the same time?
Yes, you may submit multiple proposals during a grant cycle. However, projects should only be submitted to the grant program that best aligns with the proposal. For example, literacy-focused projects should only be submitted to the Maureen Shireman Literacy Grant, not both the Maureen Shireman Literacy Grant and a standard grant. Similarly, projects requesting $10,000 or more should only be submitted to the Neal R. Pendergraft Grant. Submitting the same project to multiple grant programs does not increase the likelihood of approval.
What makes a strong grant application?
Strong grant applications:
- Clearly communicate the project using professional language and proper grammar
- Present a realistic and thorough implementation plan
- Demonstrate innovation, creativity, and meaningful impact on student learning
- Align closely with the goals and priorities of the specific grant program
- Support educational excellence, student academic experiences, or educational equity initiatives
FUNDING
How much money can I receive from a grant?
Funding amounts vary by grant program. Please visit our Grants page for specific funding details and eligibility requirements.
Can grant funds be used for any expense?
All anticipated expenses must be included in your original proposal. Once awarded, funds may be used as approved in the proposal. If you need to purchase items not originally included, you must submit a formal request through the Grant Revision Request Google Form for approval.
Can I use a grant to pay myself or my staff?
Grant funds may be used for stipends if those expenses are clearly outlined and approved in the original proposal.
after you apply
How will I know if I was awarded a grant?
Applicants will be notified by email regarding whether their proposal was approved or declined.
How long does it take to find out if I was selected?
Our grants review committee typically takes one month to review and select proposals after the application close date.
What happens if I'm declined — can I reapply?
If a proposal is declined by the district through the FPS Intent to Apply process, it is not eligible for FPEF funding. If a proposal is declined by FPEF, applicants are welcome to revise and reapply during future grant cycles.
How long does it take to receive the funds after approval?
Following notification of award, recipients will be scheduled for a Grant Orientation and Contract Signing, typically within a few weeks. Funding is distributed via debit card during the orientation.
What are the reporting requirements once I receive a grant?
Grant recipients are required to complete a digital end-of-term report outlining project outcomes, implementation details, and expenses.
Can a grant be revoked after it's awarded?
Yes. Grant funding may be revoked in cases involving project termination, staff departure, or misuse of funds.
Have a question that's not on this page? Please email us at programs@fayedfoundation.org and we'll be happy to assist you.