In order to be eligible for consideration Seed Grant, a project must have a Lisle Mentor review and sponsor it. Lisle mentors guide applicants through the grant making process once their Request to Apply (RTA) is approved.
A Lisle mentor is a member familiar with Lisle’s mission, goals, and history, ensuring project alignment with Lisle’s values and vision. Mentors guide applicants approved for the Global Seed Fund (GSF) through the grant process, evaluating project ideas for suitability and assisting with applications. They serve as the primary contact and address any concerns raised by GSF applicants.
Since 2004, Lisle has awarded over 85 seed grants to organizations worldwide, particularly those not typically funded by traditional donors. We acknowledge that grant writing can be challenging, and not everyone is familiar with the formal application process. Lisle believes in a people-to-people approach to lighten this burden. Mentoring is integral to the GSF application process, each applicant required to have a mentor after their RTA is approved.
A mentor is expect to:
- Get to know the applicant and the organization’s work.
- Explain Lisle’s mission and the Global Seed Grants process as needed.
- Clarify questions regarding key grant terminology or processes.
- Help the applicant determine if their project meets Lisle’s grant eligibility.
- Correspond with the applicant to strengthen project design and presentation.
- If, at any point, the mentor deems an application unprepared for submission and consideration, they will promptly inform the applicant.
- Review the application before final submission and ensure agreement with the applicant. Applications submitted without mentor approval will not proceed for further review.
- Serve as a liaison between the applicant and the Lisle Board, coordinating communications and conveying comments on the grant proposal’s fit with Lisle to the Board.
- Manage expectations regarding Lisle’s funding limitations.
- Provide feedback to the Board to improve the Grant program and decision-making processes.
Mentors can either be assigned or pre-arranged. If a RTA names a mentor, known to Lisle, who has already agreed to support a project, that person typically serves as the mentor. However, if an applicant submits a RTA without a mentor and is invited to submit a full application, then a mentor is assigned.
A formal letter of introduction is sent to both the assigned mentor and applicant, along with a copy of the RTA submitted by the applicant. The applicant is then responsible for contacting the mentor to arrange consultation during the application process, which may be conducted via email, phone, or virtual call.
Mentoring starts immediately following the introduction referenced above. Once the letter is sent out, all applicants or selected mentees are encouraged to initiate contact. While mentors may sometimes take the initiative to reach out first, the primary responsibility lies with the applicants. Mentors typically remain actively engaged throughout not only the grant writing process but also during the project, offering insights and ideas to assist.
Applicants should view mentors as companions in the process rather than individuals tasked with writing the proposal. Mentors will assist applicants in editing and refining their proposed projects to enhance their suitability for grant funding consideration. Additionally, mentors may offer guidance to improve the proposal writing skills of potential grantees as needed. It’s important to note that while mentors can provide insights into Lisle priorities, their review does not constitute final approval of a submitted application.
If either the applicant or mentor attempts to connect with their assigned partner and doesn’t receive a response after two attempts, they should inform the Lisle Program Manager. The Program Manager will assist in assessing whether the partner is able to fulfill their role.