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Gothard Consulting
Gothard Consulting

315 E 5th Street
Waterloo, Iowa 50703

Book at 20-minute introductory call →

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Frequently asked questions

  • You lose nothing. I absorb the complete cost of the grant writing process. If unsuccessful, I'll analyze areas for improvement and can reapply in the next funding cycle, leveraging our combined experience to strengthen your application.

  • The Department of Justice's School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) typically opens around May each year. While I can complete applications within the standard 4 to 6-week submission window, I recommend beginning our partnership 6 months before the deadline. This timeline allows us to:

    • Conduct a thorough security assessment

    • Obtain multiple competing vendor bids

    • Develop a comprehensive implementation strategy

    • Prepare the strongest possible application

  • SVPP grants require a 25% local match. For example, if your project will cost $400,000, your district would need to contribute $100,000. While I charge no upfront fees and my services are covered by grant funds, schools need to plan for this match requirement. I'll help you understand the specifics during our initial consultation.

  • I have built positive relationships with reputable security integrators but remain vendor-neutral. This allows me to help you evaluate multiple competitive bids and select the best solutions for your specific needs without bias. All integration costs are covered by the grant funding (subject to the local match requirement).

  • SVPP grants can fund a wide range of security enhancements, including:

    Physical Infrastructure:

    • Access control systems

    • Surveillance systems

    • Emergency communications infrastructure

    • Physical security measures

    Program Development:

    • Security assessments and planning

    • Emergency response protocols

    • Staff training programs

    • Policy and procedure development

    • Law enforcement coordination

    I'll help you determine the most effective use of funds based on your specific needs.

  • While I handle the majority of the grant writing process, I do need focused engagement at key points:

    • Completing my initial security assessment survey

    • Participating in stakeholder discussions

    • Reviewing and approving grant narratives

    • Coordinating with local assets

    • Obtaining vendor bids (with my guidance)

    • Signing required documentation

    • Approving the application in the government portal

    I structure the process to minimize demands on your time while ensuring you maintain appropriate oversight and control.

  • I provide comprehensive support throughout implementation:

    • Guide you through grant acceptance and fund access

    • Oversee vendor coordination and project management

    • Conduct on-site Threat, Vulnerability, and Risk Assessment

    • Develop and review security policies

    • Coordinate with law enforcement

    • Guide staff training implementation

    • Ensure compliance with reporting requirements

    • Provide ongoing consultation for emerging needs

    My goal is to ensure your grant funds translate into effective, lasting security improvements.

  • To maintain my high success rate and ensure premium service levels, I limit the number of schools I partner with each cycle. My capacity depends heavily on timing—while I can effectively manage multiple schools with advance preparation, this capacity is significantly reduced if schools wait until the grant announcement to begin the process. I recommend reaching out early to secure your spot for the next funding cycle.

    Book a 20-minute introductory call →

  • The initial 20-minute call is an opportunity to:

    • Discuss your school's specific security needs and challenges

    • Learn about the SVPP grant process and timeline

    • Understand how my zero-risk model works

    • Get answers to your questions about working together

    If you choose to move forward after the call, I'll send you a services agreement and mutual non-disclosure agreement for review and e-signature. This protects both parties as we begin sharing more detailed and sensitive information about your security needs and my process.

    Book at 20-minute introductory call →