501(c)3 – An organization that is legally recognized as a nonprofit organization.  It allows donors to know that the organization is officially a nonprofit, and it provides them with the ability to make a tax-deductible donation.  Many foundations and corporations ONLY give money to 501(c)3 organizations.  Some schools have alumni associations or parent associations that are registered as a 501(c)3. 

Common Application – The New York Regional Association of Grantmakers (NYRAG) has created a common application form that many foundations and corporations accept for grant applications.  Filling out this application will allow you to apply for several grants with only one form.  Each foundation/corporation may still ask for different materials in addition to the Common Application, so it is very important to read a foundation’s guidelines carefully.  A copy of the NYRAG Common Application form can be downloaded here, along with additional information about funders who accept this form.

Local Education Agency (LEA) – This term applies mainly to government grants.  Sometimes grants indicate that only an LEA can apply.  In this case, the school cannot apply directly for the grant by itself.  You must apply through the Department of Education Government Grants office.

Request for Proposal (RFP) – The request from a foundation or corporation to write a proposal.  The RFP will contain guidelines for what the foundation wants to know about the school and its program in order to consider giving the grant.