How often should we communicate with CICW?
We want to support and encourage you throughout the grant year. Feel free to email us with any questions, frustrations or excitements regarding your grant. We will send an occasional email to all grant recipients to share highlights of some of the grants and to provide additional information or reminders about the grant process. If a telephone conversation would be helpful for you, please let us know by writing us at worshipgrants@calvin.edu.
Are there any publicity guidelines?
Yes, publicity must ALWAYS be submitted to us for approval in advance. Page 3 of the Letter of Agreement states "No release shall be made without the Institute’s approval." In any publicity or other printed material about this program, this notice must be included: "This program is made possible through a Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grant from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, Grand Rapids, Michigan, with funds provided by Lilly Endowment Inc."
You may wish to establish a relationship with a local reporter who will publish information about your receipt of the grant, about events you are planning that are open to the public, and about results that may emerge from your project. Having photos available will help promote your grant. We ask that you send us links to or copies of any articles that have been published.
Must we use the publicity wording in internal communications?
We appreciate your using the publicity guidelines for all public announcements and advertisements. We trust your judgment for using the guidelines in your organization's communications, or in the bulletins and newsletters of any churches with which you may be working. While we understand you may not want to repeat the publicity statement every week, we trust you will ensure that your institution knows the funding source of your project.
Can I change the project?
If you find new ideas and new learning leads you to propose a change to your plan, within the overall purposes of your approved grant project, please let us know! We would consider those changes along with a budget revision proposal. Just remember that the same restrictions on funding for equipment or personnel, etc., will apply.
Can I increase the amount of the grant?
No, we cannot increase the amount of the grant that was approved and awarded.
Can I ask for budget revisions?
Yes. You may need to revise your budget as you implement your project and find that either costs have changed or your learning compels you to go in different directions.
Can I apply for another grant next year?
We have learned that it is best to focus on the grant you have this year, and leave thinking about a new grant for another year.
Can I have an extension? A year isn’t long enough!
We have learned that extensions usually are not effective. It is better to stick with your timeline and plan. So, it is important to begin well and to finish well...and on time!
What if my contact information changes?
Please notify us in writing (preferably an email to worshipgrants@calvin.edu) if there is any information change for anyone associated with your project, including changes in organizational personnel or contact information.
Do staff members of CICW offer consulting and coaching?
Assistance and consultation are available to grant recipients through the expertise of the staff of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship and some of its recommended partners. If you desire some coaching, contact the grants team for advice.