5 Reasons Municipalities Turn to Engineering Firms to Secure Grant Funding
Government funding is essential for municipalities to start and complete successful projects such as new bridges and improved roads. But knowing the ins and outs of each available grant is necessary in securing that funding. With municipality staff wearing many hats and pulled in different directions, working with a team of experienced grant writers who are knowledgeable in civil engineering can be the difference between successful projects and projects that never get off the ground.
That’s why many municipalities turn to long-standing engineering firms for guidance on grant research, writing, and submission.
Here are five reasons municipalities work with engineering firms to secure grant funding:
Outlook and plan. The first step in any project is having a plan. This can be a comprehensive capital improvement plan or a simple list of streets that need specific improvements in the near future. But don’t worry if your municipality doesn’t have a capital improvement plan; an engineering firm can help create one. Not only does this plan help the municipality and the firm determine project priorities, but it also helps determine short- and long-term grant opportunities.
Proven history. Engineering firms with an established background in the industry and relationships with agency decision-makers know what is needed for each grant opportunity and can anticipate challenges that might present themselves to securing that funding.
Research and expertise. Engineering firms that strongly value continuing education stay up to date on the ever-changing list of funding opportunities from a variety of public agencies. Engineers who attend industry events, seminars, webinars, and various other learning opportunities are able to communicate directly with key agency leaders to discuss grant specifics. This provides the foundation for a highly educated, engaged, and skilled grant-writing team.
Partnership. As soon as the process starts, an engineering firm becomes an extension of the municipality. This can mean driving out in the field to see the project in its current state or attending municipal board meetings or planning sessions to encourage stakeholder buy-in. Consistent and clear communication is essential in making sure everyone is on the same page and has all the key information required to write a strong application.
Customization. In many cases, projects can be tailored to fit specific opportunities, increasing the likelihood of grant awards. Additionally, there may be multiple grant opportunities for a single project, further reducing the local municipalities out of pocket. Due to the close relationship established from the start of the process, the team will work with municipalities to customize each application, hoping to turn the grant application into a project reality.
Batterman is there for you.
For many years, Batterman has helped municipalities secure over $10M in funding for a wide variety of projects. We are ready to partner with you to build a better community. Contact the Batterman team to learn more and get started.
Photo caption: State Line Road, Town of Sharon – Batterman helped secure $717,000 in grant funding for the Town.