Criteria

The Sachs Program grantmaking criteria and priorities are the guideposts for our grantmaking process—intended to clarify for applicants and evaluating committees what is expected of a competitive application.

All Sachs Program grant applications will be evaluated using the following criteria.

The application is clear and thorough: it is understood what the applicant is proposing and how they will implement the project if it’s successful; the budget supports the proposed activities.
The applicant makes a compelling case for how their project supports Sachs Program grantmaking priorities. It is understood that not all priorities are relevant to every project or grant category.
When a Fiscal Conduit is needed, the applicant has confirmed a department, program, or center to manage the funds if the grant is awarded. Please refer to our general information page about grants disbursement for complete guidelines about receiving grant funds.
When an applicant’s proposal includes events, such as demonstrations, protests, rallies, or guest speakers on campus, the applicant has confirmed that they have reviewed and intend to follow the University of Pennsylvania Temporary Standards for Campus Events and Demonstrations and that they have read and understand the university’s Guidelines on Open Expression.
When appropriate, the applicant has identified audiences or intended beneficiaries for their project, and the proposal includes a realistic and thoughtful plan for engagement, marketing, and communication.
The applicant clearly outlines why Sachs Program funding is important, how it will be used, and if and where other resources might be coming from.
No other Penn funding source would be more appropriate to support the proposed project.
If the applicant’s budget is larger than their request to The Sachs Program, they discuss in their application how they intend to implement the project if they are not able to obtain additional support.
The partners listed represent the expertise and experience necessary for the proposed project; roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
Project partners are confirmed whenever possible, OR a) it is clear that the applicant has discussed the project with them; b) there is a clear plan for approaching project partners on a reasonable timeline. This includes departmental approval and venues, when applicable.
If an applicant’s project has been supported by The Sachs Program or another Penn entity previously, the applicant makes a strong case for why this proposal should receive additional support from The Sachs Program at this time (in relation to Sachs Program grantmaking priorities).