INPS Offering Grants to Chapters
The INPS Board of Directors has earmarked $2000 for the regional chapters to use for special projects. The grant is intended to make it possible for the smaller chapters to fund projects that advance the INPS mission in their regions.
The impetus for this grant program is the recognition that regional chapters with smaller memberships are hard-pressed to come up with funds for substantial projects. By policy, each chapter receives 7 percent of member dues, but that leaves new and developing chapters with few funds to support more than their own operating expenses.
Chapters with large enrollments, such as Central and South Central, garner enough funds from the state organization to offer their own grants to local applicants. The new grant opportunity from the state organization will enable smaller chapters to mount similar projects that could increase interest in native plants in their areas.
Application Guidelines
The grant program will operate on two cycles: a December 10 deadline with funds payable the following January; and, if all budgeted funds have not been allocated, a May 1 deadline payable in June.
Applicants may request up to $2000.
Applications must be submitted online by the chapter president, with a statement of approval of the request.
The INPS Board will review requests and award grants.
Criteria for Judging Requests
- The funding request or project is aligned with the INPS mission and one or more of its aspirations.
- The proposal clearly explains a need that cannot be met by local resources.
- Preference will be given to one-time requests or special projects or purchases rather than to funding for regular chapter activities.
- Preference will be given to requests that allow a chapter to increase the scope and/or outreach of its programs.
- Projects should include a plan for sustainability after the initial funding is depleted, if applicable.