Funding

Finding the funds to either begin or expand an effort is always a challenge. There are, however, a number of steps you can take to be sure you are positioning your institution to be at the ready when a funding opportunity presents itself. Track your student veterans’ admissions, retention, grade point averages, graduation rates, etc.  The statistics you keep will become key to making a case for funding and support with internal and external partners.

Keep current on state and national public and private grants for veterans programming and subscribe to updates from government entities with funding opportunities.  Be sure community members, local veteran service organizations, as well as business and industry know you exist.

Business and industry will view you as a worthy partner when you demonstrate an understanding of the needs of their current and future work force. To the extent possible, get involved with local Chambers of Commerce, civic organizations, and small business development centers. You may find a direct correlation between your proactive networking/connections to the community and potential funding opportunities.