ICF Project Grants - Assessment Criteria
ICF project grants are assessed by rotating panels of Indigenous community members. Applications are assessed using a five-point rating system:
- 5 = excellent, 4=very good, 3=good, 2=fair but not quite ready for funding, and 1=not ready for funding
- Applications must be evaluated at a rating of 3 or higher to be considered for funding.
- If unsuccessful in their grant application, applicants are encouraged to get feedback from the ICF Grants Facilitator, who can support them in reapplying at a later deadline.
Assessors base their scoring on the following criteria, which is equally weighted:
- Strength and Clarity of Project Vision
- The intentions, goals and desired outcomes of the project are clearly articulated and distinct.
- There is a clear and compelling history or past activities that connect the applicant to the project.
- There are vital and relevant community influences and connections.
- If there are collaborators or partners, they are highly suited to the project activities.
- Community Impact
- There are clear and relevant goals and plans for having an impact for communities, audiences, and/or participants.
- There is a unique and compelling contribution to applicant’s development or the group/collective/organization’s objectives.
- The community context is clearly articulated, and the project is suited to that context and considers local protocols.
- If the project has collaborators or partners they are well-chosen and highly appropriate to the community context.
- Project Readiness and Viability
- Past history of project and budget management is clear, relevant to the current project and indicates a high probability of success.
- The work plan is coherent and realistic, includes all the major activities required, and has sufficient time and resources dedicated to each phase.
- If there is a plan for raising any additional funds, it is realistic and includes a strong contingency plan. Projections of fees and other expenses are backed up by careful research and planning, and compensate collaborators appropriately.
- If the project has collaborators or partners, the roles are clearly outlined and they have the demonstrated experience to fulfill their expected responsibilities on the project.