Show Me the Money: Tips for Writing Successful IMLS Grant Applications

Do you want to know more about writing successful IMLS grant applications and discover common pitfalls to avoid? This session is for you. Following a brief introduction to its grant programs and initiatives, the Institute of Museum and Library Services will host a dialogue with three recent panel reviewers who are also successful applicants. The panelists will share their experiences as IMLS reviewers and offer recommendations on how to write competitive proposals and offer tips for writing and submitting applications.

Engaging the library field and sharing information with professionals of all levels of experience is an important goal of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Based upon feedback from the field, we recognize that there is great appreciation and support from hearing directly from library colleagues who have not only participated in the IMLS review process but also submitted successful applications. This session will combine both of these objectives.

The first part of the session will provide an overview of current IMLS funding opportunities as well as introducing any new focus areas and initiatives. The next part of the session will be a moderated discussion between IMLS staff and experienced panel reviewers. Topics addressed in the discussion will include: brief overview of IMLS review process, identifying characteristics of competitive applications, offering tips to ensure applications receive favorable reviews, highlighting the importance of applications following the notice of funding opportunity instructions, and focusing on the connection between project outcomes and program funding goals. The session will conclude with final tips.

Participants will benefit from the knowledge and experiences of the panel reviewers, develop a greater understanding of current IMLS funding programs, and get tips to move from being potential grantees to successful grantees.