There are typically five project life cycle phases: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closure. Initiation is where you define the goals, scope, budget, and timeline. Planning follows, focusing on creating a detailed action plan. Execution then carries out the plans to deliver the product.

A microproject is a short-term fundraising effort to help achieve a specific activity or support a specific individual. Microprojects are a great fundraising tool that helps you capture the attention of donors with a specific, actionable goal and an urgent giving deadline.

A mega construction project is a construction project spanning more than a year, with a value of at least $25 million. OFCCP developed its Mega Construction Project Program to facilitate construction contractors' access to a pipeline of diverse talent for some of this nation's largest construction projects.

Think about what's happening in your community or in the headlines. Or consider the books, movies, or music that have students buzzing. Developing a project from news or pop culture is often a pathway to authenticity and engagement.