We have recently received several questions regarding the Denver Metro Nonprofit Production Grant. Hopefully this list will provide more clarity as you are applying/deciding to apply for this training program.
Question:
It sounds like the decision about which projects will be chosen will happen almost immediately with the staff time needing to be committed in the summer months. Is that correct? The reason I ask is because we have a number of staff taking time off during the summer and early fall is very crazy for us with schools starting up. Would we be able to schedule trainings in October and November?
Answer:
Yes, the decision will happen very quickly, and unfortunately, we’re aiming to have the program completed by October/November. CFF and the Bamboo Fund are both interested in potentially extending the program before then, but that all depends on the success of this initial effort.
Staff & volunteer vacations are easily accommodated. This isn’t a full-time commitment, just 25-50 hours/month per organization for 2-3 months, and less after that to continue the efforts. From our perspective, it shouldn’t be a significant increase in marketing and PR efforts, but a re-direction of those efforts towards avenues that have a greater impact and return-on-investment.
Question:
Is there a geographical focus for organizations applying for this grant? Or can any organization within the state of Colorado apply?
Answer:
To us, the label "Denver Metro" includes organizations that are located within Boulder, Longmont, Arvada, Westminister, Littleton, Wheat Ridge, Brighton, Aurora, Golden, Morrison, and Englewood. Any organizations located within these areas are encouraged to apply.
Question:
Is there actual grant funding available in addition to the service package provided by Deproduction? if so, can funds be used to support staff time to work on the project?
Answer:
Good question. No, there are no funds available for staff time spent on the project. The reasoning behind this is both CFF and Deproduction are committed that this grant initiates a long-term, sustainable effort into using media and technologies to further an organization's mission. We expect the program to justify a re-direction of current marketing and outreach staff time towards more effective new media approaches, and we’re looking for organizations interested in committing to investing staff, volunteers, and other resources into this effort.
Question:
What is the time frame of the grant period?
Answer:
The Denver Metro Nonprofit Production Grant deadline June 14, 2008 and the production and training will take place over the next 3-4 months, with the expectation that the trained representatives of your organization will continue to utilize the included membership,s equipment access and resources for a year or more. We’re hoping that organizations will receive so much value, that after 1 year, they will elect to purchase a membership and continue working with us.
Question:
How are the required 25-50 hours of training accounted for per month? Is it per person or is it a cumulative for all of our employees who may be involved in the project?
Answer:
It is cumulative for all employees/volunteers, etc.