course description

This course explores the necessary art of proposal writing and introduces as well key tools related to project management for projects that contribute to urban sustainability. Proposal writing does not stand alone as it must be part of a process of planning and of research on, outreach to, and cultivation of potential foundation and corporate donors, as well as being grounded in the conviction that a partnership should develop between the nonprofit and the donor or investor. Raising funds is an investment in the future of your community and your aim should be to build a network of foundation and corporate funders, many of which give small gifts on a fairly steady basis and a few of which give large, periodic grants.​

Course Impact

Course Expectations

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Understand that importance and concepts of being a Global Citizen
• Recognize the essential building blocks of professional proposals and grant applications
• Have the ability to understand and create a logic model as part of a working framework
• Draft professional proposals and grant applications for future submission
• Identify the need for and how to build effective partnerships
• ​Recognize the steps used towards effective project management and report writing

Course Approach and methods

​This is a collaborative learning experience requiring students to engage in on­line discussions, several real­time virtual lectures and presentations. Students will also be instructed on how to use the online platform to upload and share assignments, as well as dialogue amongst themselves to share experiences, successes and challenges. Each week students will be assigned an activity requires them to engage with each other, businesses and governmental institutions, and their community.

Proposed Timeline

Week:

1. Making Global Citizens
   
2. Building Blocks of a Proposal
   
3. Your Turn to Draft a Proposal
   
4. How to Build Partnerships and The Use of Social Media
   
5. Framework for Project Reporting
   
6. Key Steps to Project Management
   

Evaluation

• 20% Project Management Portfolio
• 20% Draft Proposal
• 20% Evaluation and Sustainability Plan
• 15% Weekly Discussion Assignments, On­line Participation and Group Activities 
• 15% Community Impact Statement
• 10% Creation of a Social Media Tool