Grant Application & Evaluation Criteria

Take note that we’ve changed the timeline of our grant cycles; the winter cycle will begin in mid-December for the following year with a second cycle in spring, beginning in mid-April. We are getting started earlier in our process to help you better prepare for the growing seasons. Read on for the information critical to writing a successful grant application.

grant review criteria

(updated 10-2026)
CMGA grants are reviewed and evaluated based on the five following categories and are scored from ‘ideal practice’ to ‘unacceptable practice’. It’s suggested that you read past successful grant applications on this page to better understand how to prepare yours.

• Project Description - factors that led to the project design and the grant application, what project will accomplish

• Key Steps - up to 5 specific, measurable steps that will help achieve the goal

• Audience & Community Impact - who will benefit from the project and how it supports the CMGA mission to promote horticultural knowledge and/or improve the community through gardening

• Master Gardeners & other volunteers - (approximate) number of MGs, Interns, and other volunteers to be included in the project, and the recruiment strategy to source them

• Budget - expenses are clearly described, including financial support from other sources

Each grant application is reviewed and rated using this Grant Evaluation Rubric/Rating Chart that describes how the Grant Review Criteria are scored. Reviewing the chart before you begin writing your application can help you make your application explanations clear.

Still have questions?

Please email the CMGA Grants Committee at grants@ctmga.org

We want to help you to be successful in applying for and receiving a CMGA grant to benefit your community!