Finding External Funding in Graduate School Dr. Jennifer Teitle The University of Iowa Graduate College The picture shows a treasure chest, but external funding can actually provide much more than just money. *Opportunities to network with other scholars *Travel/ learning opportunities * External validation *

Steps for Finding Funding Learn Learn about funding opportunities Think broadly about your work Plan Develop a timeline and plan What must happen, in what order Search Communicate and use local networks Search with large-scale databases

Learn About Funding Internships: Paid or unpaid work experience Residencies: Room and board within an artist/ scholar community Scholarships: Funding for education Awards: Funding in recognition of scholarly or creative excellence Fellowships: For graduate and post-graduate research and/or education Grants: Support for research, travel, projects

Learn: Think Broadly about Funding

Plan your academic timeline Define Your Academic Goals what you want to do where you want to be what you need to get there Create Your Search Timeline what has to happen, in what order timing is everything, think at least one year in advance Make a calendar with deadlines (letters, writing, revision)

Communicate your plans and use the available social networks Search: Local Communicate your plans and use the available social networks Other students Advisor/mentors Online networks Conferences Professional associations

The Division of Sponsored Programs (DSP) Homepage: Search: Global The Division of Sponsored Programs (DSP) Homepage: SPIN Searches

University Database Searches Search: Global Grants 4 Hawks University Database Searches

Search: Global Crowdfunding Rally Kickstarter Indiegogo More ideas from Imagining America and Animating Democracy…

Finding Funding Takes Time Schedule blocks of time for your funding searches (30-45 minutes) Search regularly Keep records Set goals

How can I tell if an opportunity is right for me? A good match between a funder and applicant is essential. When you find an opportunity ask: Am I eligible? What is the funder’s mission and does my work fit into it? Who else has this funder supported?

Remember—there are many opportunities out there! Don’t force it Remember—there are many opportunities out there! Many funders now have website that show their opportunities, interests, and mission statement. You may also be able to investigate winners from previos years and even read their abstracts! Example:

Need help? Contact Jennifer at dsp-gradgrants@uiowa.edu Individual interviews/search strategies Hands-on training to use the databases Proposal Review

Start today!