Introduction

When applying for a grant, it's crucial to provide clear and detailed milestones that outline the specifics of what you intend to achieve. A well-defined milestone not only showcases your understanding of the project but also instills confidence in the grant evaluators about your capability to deliver. This guide aims to help potential grantees understand how to present milestones effectively.

How to Write Good Milestones

  1. Be Specific: Avoid high-level descriptions. Instead of writing "Build admin dashboard", specify the exact functionalities the dashboard will contain.
  2. Pre-Research is Key: Before applying for a grant, ensure that all the research has been done. Milestones should not include phases like "defining grant objectives" or "researching technology".
  3. Provide an Architecture Overview: This gives a sense that you've thoroughly researched and are familiar with the platform you're building on. It's a testament to your preparedness and understanding of the project.
  4. Include User Stories: User stories help in understanding the user's perspective and the value they will derive from the project. For instance, "As a user, I want to be notified in detail by email if my KYC request has been approved or rejected and why."
  5. Detail the Interface: If you're building a service, provide a clear interface, including the argument and response types. If possible, write them in candid.
  6. Highlight IC Deployment: Clearly indicate which parts of the project are going to be deployed on the Internet Computer. Explain the rationale behind choosing the IC over other platforms. It's essential to justify why deploying on the IC is crucial for your project. Additionally, if you're leveraging unique features of the IC, such as HTTP outcalls, vetKD, or the direct bitcoin integration, elucidate how and why you're using these superpowers. This not only showcases your deep understanding of the IC but also underscores the project's alignment with the IC's capabilities.

How NOT to Write Milestones

  1. Avoid Vague Descriptions: Phrases like "improve backend functionality" or "improve UI" are too ambiguous. They don't give a clear picture of the scope of work.
  2. No Pre-Grant Phases: Milestones should not be about the preparatory phases of the project. Everything should be set before the grant starts.
  3. Steer Clear of Non-Technical Milestones: We do not fund milestones that focus on marketing, advertising, or any non-technical aspects. For instance, "During this initial phase, our strategy involves conducting surveys to address the problem we're solving. Additionally, we will run advertising campaigns" is a bad example.

Conclusion

Clear, detailed, and well-researched milestones are the backbone of a successful grant application. They reflect your commitment, understanding, and readiness to embark on the project. By following the guidelines above, you can significantly enhance the chances of your grant application being approved. Remember, it's not just about getting the funds; it's about showcasing your vision and capability to bring that vision to life.

Examples of good milestones