Read Critically Article
When preparing an application, the first and most important step is to read the Request for
Application (RFA) critically and carefully. In other words, read and reread the solicitation,
and then read it again. Reading critically involves doing some detective work to find and
analyze the following:
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What’s required for the application
What responsibilities funders will expect from the Tribe as a grantee
How your program might impact your Tribe and what results you might expect
Funders do their best to explain all their funding expectations and requirements in one
comprehensive document. This means that RFAs are often complex and multi-faceted, so
reading critically is especially important. Here are some suggestions for how to read
critically and effectively:
1. Read the RFA once from cover to cover. Take notes on your first impressions and any
questions you have. Mark the possible purpose area(s) that would best fit your Tribe or
program, based on both the needs in your Tribe and your capacity as an applicant.
2. Read it again, keeping the following questions in mind:
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Does a purpose area in this solicitation match the needs of my Tribe?
o Who specifically would benefit from this funding?
o What does the funder hope to accomplish for the funding recipient?
Note: For CTAS, this means determining what your purpose areas are.
Does the Tribe have the capacity to comply with the requirements and standards set by
the funder?
o What are the reporting requirements?
o When and how often will these requirements need to be met?
o Do you have the financial infrastructure to comply with all the financial and
reporting requirements?
Are you eligible for this funding?
o What are the eligibility requirements?
o What types of Tribal organizations or Tribal consortiums can apply?
Is it feasible to apply?
o When is the application due?
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o Do you have the capacity to form a CTAS team to guide, contribute, and write
your application?
o Do you have someone on your team that will act as the primary writer and/or
editor of the written application?
o Can you design an effective program that addresses the needs of your Tribe and
also write a compelling application in the time available?
Note: It can take a while to upload documents to the Grants Management
System, so be sure to build in time for that.
What data and back-up documentation are required for the application, and how will
you collect them?
3. Read the RFA with others. Different sections of the RFA may require a certain level of
knowledge and expertise to understand them fully. Find the people in your Tribe or
program (such as financial or budget personnel, grant-writing staff, Tribal Elders, or
potential partners) who can lend their expertise to help you read through these sections
critically. Another set of eyes may catch things you didn’t!
4. Revisit the RFA frequently while designing your program. Once you have determined
that you and your team are eligible and willing to apply, begin your strategic planning
and grant-writing process. As you design your program, revisit the RFA frequently,
reading critically to ensure that you are within the guidelines and scope that the
solicitation sets forth.
5. Read it again as you write each section. As you begin writing the application, read and
take note of the scoring requirements for each section. Some key considerations:
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What does this section need to include?
How long can this section be?
How is it scored?
What percentage is this section worth? What is its impact on the overall score?
What information must be included in this section? What questions need to be
answered?
Are we required or allowed to include supplemental attachments that may support
statements made in the narrative?
After you’ve completed a section of the application, check it against the RFA requirements
for that section.
After you’ve completed the budget, check it against the financial requirements in the RFA.
General Tips
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Make sure you’re reading with fresh eyes. Take breaks and rest your eyes as needed.
Slow down while you read, and make sure that you read every word.
Take notes
Read out loud.
If you have a question about the RFA and you can’t find the answer, look for contact
information toward the front of the RFA. Usually there’s an e-mail address or phone
number you can contact to get the information you need.