2009-2010 AmeriCorps Grant Application
      2009 AmeriCorps Kansas Nofo (PDF)   
      2009 AmeriCorps Kansas Grant Application (PDF)

  Provisions/Regulations
      AmeriCorps Provisions and Federal Regulations

Who can apply
State and local nonprofit organizations, community and faith-based organizations, educational institutions, state and local governments, territories, may apply.

  Selection Criteria
  Program Design, Organizational Capacity, Cost-Effectiveness and Budget Adequacy

Information regarding eGrants
All AmeriCorps*Kansas grant applicants must submit their application online through eGrants (http://www.nationalservice.org/egrants/). Instructions for how to apply appear in the RFP. Please contact our office, 785-368-6207 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , if you have any questions, or contact the eGrants Help Desk at 888-677-7849 or 202-606-7506 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

eGrants is an online grant application and administration system through the Corporation for National and Community Service. All programs seeking funding through the KVC must first download the AmeriCorps*Kansas Nofo and Application documents, then submit their application through eGrants, per the instructions, at http://www.nationalservice.org/egrants/.

eGrants Help Web Site
https://egrants.cns.gov/espan/webhelp/!SSL!/WebHelp/eGrants.htm 

FAQs

What is the timeline of the application process?
There are two types of applications with two different windows of opportunity, competitive and formula.  Competitive applications are those that are selected by the KVC to go into a national competition for funding; versus formula funding applicants which is strictly a statewide competition.  The competitive window is now closed.   Awards for competitive applicants will be announced May 23-24, 2008. 
Formula applicants must submit their applications into eGrants by April 10, 2008, no later than 4 p.m. Central Standard Time.  Formula award announcements will be take place in early June, with specific date to be determined.

Can for-profit organizations host AmeriCorps members?
No, federal regulations prohibit AmeriCorps members from providing a direct benefit to for-profit businesses.

BUDGET

What's the limit on the total amount I can request?

The only limit to the total amount would be that you can only have $12,600.00 per Member Service Year (MSY).  The term MSY and how to calculate it is explained in the application. (There are other limits within the budget itself, such as the 5% administrative cap.) Obviously another limitation would be the amount of match you are able to provide. 

If I am approved for funding will I get the full amount I proposed?

There may be budget adjustments.  The Kansas Volunteer Commission reserves the right to partially fund programs and request budget changes. 

Is cost per Member Service Year a factor in consideration of an application for funding?

Generally, a lower cost per MSY will make your program more attractive but it is not the only factor in determining funding.

FISCAL AGENT AS APPLICANT

Can we be a fiscal agent and contract with a non-profit to provide program support?

Yes, but this must be made clear in the application. The Organizational Capability section of the application will give you an opportunity to outline your ability to be a fiscal agent; your strengths and experiences with other federal grants.

HOST SITES

What if we aren’t sure which sites we will be working with yet?

You may still apply and outline your plans.  Confirmed sites will make your application more competitive. 

Do we have to keep the same sites throughout the three year grant cycle?

No, we recognize that changes may occur however any changes must still comply with your program design.

MEMBERS

Does it matter if I want part time members instead of full time?

No, however the type of members you propose must fit the program design (i.e., can you accomplish what you propose with only part time members?). You can also have different types of member slots (full time, half time, etc.) in your program.  Remember, though, that full time members have to have a minimum living allowance of $11,400 and have to be provided health insurance.

When do enrollment periods for members end?

It depends on when you start your program.  Most programs start in August 1st or September 1st and end the following July 31st or August 31st, respectively.  The enrollment periods (start date/end date) for members must be within the program year.  Programs set a final enrollment date for each slot type during contract negotiations. Full-time members must have a minimum of 9 months to a maximum of 12 months to complete their terms. Less than full-time members must be enrolled with an adequate amount of time to complete their terms by the end of your program year.

Does the KVC offer any assistance with grant writing?
Yes, please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions about your applications.

Jonathan Loppnow,  AmeriCorps*Kansas Program Officer
Kansas Volunteer Commission
Kansas State Department of Education
120 SE 10th Ave
Topeka, KS 66612
785.368.6232 (phone)
785.368.6284 (fax)