In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements (see Eligibility), a successful applicant will demonstrate:
- Clearly defined need for and timeliness of this project that can lead to measurable impacts.
- Commitment and ability to put values and vision into action, plans and/or policies and to steward these commitments over the long term.
- Strong commitment from the municipality and community partners to participate in the project and provide matching resources, technical assistance, participation and guidance.
- Commitment to and readiness for a high level of diverse citizen engagement, youth participation, and shared decision-making based on an understanding of who lives and works in the community.
- Clear and achievable project concept that includes the five core elements of the Heart & Soul approach, with a willingness to experiment with new tools and processes.
- Realistic preliminary budget with adequate match and demonstrated capacity within the community to successfully complete the project and implement the results.
- Capacity for effective project communications and coordination
- Commitment to evaluate and share results of the project and the likelihood that results will inform the Foundation’s Heart & Soul Community Planning program and will be useful to community planning efforts in other communities.