The Grant Program

Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Online Application

The Grant Program of the United States Institute of Peace is pleased to announce the launch of WebGrants, an Internet-based application system that saves time and reduces paperwork for applicants to the Annual Grant Competition. WebGrants is secure and reliable, and allows prospective grantees to complete the application at their own pace, saving changes as they proceed and returning to the site at any time.

First-time WebGrants users will be prompted to create a username and password. Upon entering the site, applicants will see the “Main Menu,” where they can click “Instructions” for an explanation of how to navigate the system. Applicants should also download and read the Annual Grant Competition guidelines before starting an application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. My browser isn’t loading WebGrants properly. What should I do?
2. I forgot my password. What should I do?
3. When I paste text from a word processor into the rich text fields of the application, the system changes the formatting of my document. Is there a way to avoid this?
4. How do I submit reference letters?
5. I do not have regular access to the Internet. May I submit a paper application?

1. My browser isn’t loading WebGrants properly. What should I do?

WebGrants should load properly on all browsers, but Internet Explorer and Safari have been found to be the most reliable. You can download free copies of these browsers from the Internet.

2. I forgot my password. What should I do?

Click on the “Forgot Password” link on the login screen. After entering your username and email address, you will be guided through a series of steps to reset your password. If you continue to experience difficulties, you may contact the Grant Program by telephone at (202) 429-3842 or by email at grants@usip.org.

3. When I paste text from a word processor into the rich text fields of the application, the system changes the formatting of my document. Is there a way to avoid this?

When completing an application component that contains a rich text field, you will notice a formatting toolbar. The farthest right button on the toolbar is a clipboard image with the letter W. Click this button, and a secondary window will appear. (You may need to modify your browser settings to enable pop-ups.) Paste the text directly from your word processor into this field, and click “insert.”

This should allow you to insert your text with minimal disruption to the formatting. We do recommend, however, that you double-check your application before submitting it.

4. How do I submit reference letters?

WebGrants has a reference letter screen that prompts you to enter your referees’ contact information. After you finish all components of the application and click “submit,” WebGrants will automatically send an email to each of your three referees. The email will include a link through which your referee will be able to upload your letter of recommendation.

Please be advised, however, that the emails to your referees will not be sent until you have completed all components of the application. For this reason, the deadline for receipt of letters of reference is October 15, two weeks later than the application deadline, October 1.

We strongly recommend that you contact your referees before submitting your application to advise them that they will be receiving an email from WebGrants. It is also advisable that you follow up with your referees to ensure that they have uploaded your letters of recommendation.

5. I do not have regular access to the Internet. May I submit a paper application?

The United States Institute of Peace strongly prefers that all prospective applicants to the Annual Grant Competition use WebGrants to submit their applications, but exceptions will be considered in extenuating circumstances. Please contact the Grant Program by telephone at (202) 429-3842 or by email at grants@usip.org.