Green Commons Application Feedback
If Your Application Was Not Funded
We appreciate the time and effort that goes into each Green Commons Awards application! Unfortunately, due to limited funding and a competitive review process, we’re not able to support all proposals submitted. We understand that receiving a “no” can be disappointing, especially when the project reflects creativity and commitment to the environment and important issues.
Common Reasons Green Commons Awards Applications Are Not Accepted
- Project Duplication: The proposed project is already underway or substantially overlaps with an existing campus initiative, program, or departmental effort. We encourage applicants to research current Georgetown sustainability projects and consult with relevant departments prior to submission.
- Insufficient Alignment with Values Statement: The project does not clearly advance the Green Commons Awards’ Values Statement, including community engagement, celebration of the Earth, or preparation for sustainability leadership in the spirit of integral ecology.
- Lack of Identified Administrative Support: For student-led projects, there is no confirmed faculty or staff mentor or departmental home to support project execution.
- Budget Issues: The proposed budget includes ineligible expenses (such as salaries, stipends, or office operating costs) or lacks sufficient detail to determine responsible use of funds.
- Incomplete or Ineligible Application: Required elements of the application—such as a signed advisor letter, a complete budget, or Center for Student Engagement approval (for student organizations)—were missing or incomplete.
Why We Don’t Provide Individualized Feedback
Given the volume of applications and the limited capacity of our team, we are not able or required to provide detailed feedback on every declined application. Awards are determined based on a combination of factors including alignment with the Green Commons Values Statement, feasibility and eligibility, potential for campus impact, and available budget.
Next Steps You Might Consider
We encourage applicants to view this not as the end of a project idea, but as part of a longer process of growth and refinement.
Revise and Resubmit: If your project remains a priority for you, consider refining the project and proposal and submitting it during a future Green Commons Awards cycle. The best advice: make sure your project aligns and clearly communicates this alignment with our Green Commons Values Statement, feasibility and eligibility, and potential for campus impact. There are multiple opportunities each academic year.
Explore Other Campus Resources: Many departments and centers across Georgetown offer support for student- or faculty-led projects. The Mortara Center, the Office of Sustainability, or other student groups may be able to advise you or even partner with you for additional options.
Seek Collaborators or Mentors: Connecting with a faculty or staff mentor early in the process can help strengthen your project design, budget, and alignment with campus priorities. They may also be able to advise you on additional resources for your project.
We’re grateful to be part of a campus community full of ideas and energy for environmental change—and we hope you’ll continue working toward your goals.