What are some common mistakes people experience when applying and what are the best ways to avoid them? Will all applications be considered for funding?  

All applications that meet the below screening criteria will be considered for funding. If all the screening criteria are not met, the application will not be moved forward for review by the independent review committee.

​To reduce errors, read the RFP carefully. Answer each item fully. Be sure to upload all the fully completed required documentation. Meet all the screening criteria stated in sections 6.2. as only those applications that meet the documented screening criteria will be considered.

For an application to be reviewed, it must meet the following requirements:

• Applications must be submitted electronically via SM Apply no later than the due date and time documented in the RFP.
• Applicants must complete the budget form, budget narrative, and program implementation timeline found in the application portal, in accordance with sections 7 and 8 of the RFP. All forms must be completed using the original format of the provided templates. No other forms, formats or alterations will be accepted.
• The budget must include a minimum match of 25% of the total program budget. You must use the following calculation to determine the minimum 25% match value:
  • Funds Requested / 3 = Minimum Match Amount.
  • Applicants who do not use this calculation to determine match will not be moved forward for consideration. The budget form and budget narrative also contain the formula to assist in determining the minimum 25% match requirement. Refer to section 4.3.1.
• Applications must include an executive summary of the proposed program that does not exceed 100 words, in accordance with section 7.1.6.