added blog post for funding opportunity

blog/2025-02-10-pecanrfp.md

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+---
+slug: pecanrfp
+title: PEcAn Request for Proposals
+authors: david_lebauer
+tags: [funding]
+---
+
+# **Call for Proposals: PEcAn Project Community Development Fund**
+
+The PEcAn Project is excited to announce the availability of funding for small projects and activities. This fund is made possible by GSOC mentor stipends.
+
+We invite proposals for small grants to support activities that advance and promote PEcAn-related work.
+
+## **Supported Activities**
+
+The objective of this funding is to build and support the PEcAn community. A broad scope of activities could be supported. Examples include:
+
+- **Community Engagement:** PEcAn-related swag or outreach activities that enhance community visibility and engagement.
+- **Workshops:** Funding to help coordinate in-person PEcAn-related meetups.
+- **Conference Participation:** Support for presenting PEcAn-related work at conferences.
+- **Publications:** Assistance with publication costs for PEcAn-related papers.
+- **Other Uses:** We are open to creative proposals that support the PEcAn community.
+
+## **Expected Award Size**
+
+All proposals will be considered contingent on available funds. We anticipate typical awards between $500-$3000 USD.
+
+## **Eligibility**
+
+- Open to all PEcAn community members.
+
+## **Out of Scope / Excluded Activities**
+
+- Activities that already have funding.
+- PEcAn Software Development.
+- Travel expenses for PEcAn workshops.
+
+## **How to Apply**
+
+Submit a brief proposal (1-2 pages) that includes:
+
+1. **Your Name & Affiliation**
+2. **Description of Proposed Activity**
+
+- Scope of work
+- Deliverables
+- How it benefits the PEcAn community
+
+3. **Estimated Itemized Budget**
+4. **Timeline** (when funds will be used)
+
+## **Submission**
+
+Proposals will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Prior to formal submission, post ideas and ask questions on the #pecan Slack channel.