Show that you understand the current state of research on your topic.
The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.
One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.
Download our research proposal template
Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:
See an example
Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.
Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:
The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.
Your introduction should:
To guide your introduction , include information about:
Discover proofreading & editing
As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.
In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:
Following the literature review, restate your main objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.
? or ? , , or research design? | |
, )? ? | |
, , , )? | |
? |
To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.
For example, your results might have implications for:
Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .
Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.
Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.
Download our research schedule template
Research phase | Objectives | Deadline |
---|---|---|
1. Background research and literature review | 20th January | |
2. Research design planning | and data analysis methods | 13th February |
3. Data collection and preparation | with selected participants and code interviews | 24th March |
4. Data analysis | of interview transcripts | 22nd April |
5. Writing | 17th June | |
6. Revision | final work | 28th July |
If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.
Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:
To determine your budget, think about:
If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.
Methodology
Statistics
Research bias
Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .
Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.
I will compare …
A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.
Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.
A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.
A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.
A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.
All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.
Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.
Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.
The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.
McCombes, S. & George, T. (2023, November 21). How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved August 10, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-process/research-proposal/
Other students also liked, how to write a problem statement | guide & examples, writing strong research questions | criteria & examples, how to write a literature review | guide, examples, & templates, "i thought ai proofreading was useless but..".
I've been using Scribbr for years now and I know it's a service that won't disappoint. It does a good job spotting mistakes”
Educational resources and simple solutions for your research journey
Writing a research grant proposal can be a challenging task, especially for those who are new to the process. However, a well-written proposal can increase the chances of receiving the necessary funding for your research.
This guide discusses the key criteria to consider when writing a grant proposal and what to include in each section.
Table of Contents
When writing a grant proposal, there are five main criteria that you need to consider. These are:
The funding body will look for these criteria throughout your statement, so it’s important to tailor what you say and how you say it accordingly.
Significance refers to the value of the research you are proposing. It should address an important research problem and be significant in your field or for society. Think about what you are hoping to find and how it could be valuable in the industry or area you are working in. What does success look like? What could follow-on work lead to?
Approach refers to the methods and techniques you plan to use. The funding body will be looking at how well-developed and integrated your framework, design, methods, and analysis are. They will also want to know if you have considered any problem areas and alternative approaches. Experimental design, data collection and processing, and ethical considerations all fall under this group.
Innovation means that you are proposing something new and original. Your aims should be original and innovative, or your proposed methods and approaches should be new and novel . Ideally both would be true. Your project should also challenge existing paradigms or develop new methodologies or technologies.
Investigators here refer to you and your team, or proposed team. The funding body will want to know if you are well-trained and have the right qualifications and experience to conduct the research . This is important as it shows you have the ability to undertake the research successfully. One part of this evaluation will be, have you been awarded grants in the past. This is one reason to start early in your career with grant applications to smaller funds to build up a track record.
Environment refers to the scientific environment in which the work will be done. The funding body will want to know if the scientific environment will contribute to the overall probability of success. This could include your institution, the building or lab you will be working in, and any collaborative arrangements you have in place. Any similar research work conducted in your institution in the past will show that your environment is likely to be appropriate.
It’s almost impossible to generalize across funders, since each has its own highly specific format for applications, but most applications have the following sections in common.
The abstract is a summary of your research proposal. It should be around 150 to 200 words and summarize your aims, the gap in literature, the methods you plan to use, and how long you might take.
The literature review is a review of the literature related to your field. It should summarize the research within your field, speaking about the top research papers and review papers. You should mention any existing knowledge about your topic and any preliminary data you have. If you have any hypotheses, you can add them at the end of the literature review.
The aims section needs to be very clear about what your aims are for the project. You should have a couple of aims if you are looking for funding for two or three years. State your aims clearly using strong action words.
In this section, you should sell the significance of your research. Explain why your research is important and why you deserve the funding.
It’s essential to identify the research questions you want to answer when writing a grant proposal. It’s also crucial to determine the potential impact of your research and narrow your focus.
1.Innovation and Originality
Innovation is critical in demonstrating that your research is original and has a unique approach compared to existing research. In this section, it’s essential to highlight the importance of the problem you’re addressing, any critical barriers to progress in the field, and how your project will improve scientific knowledge and technical capabilities. You should also demonstrate whether your methods, technologies, and approach are unique.
2. Research approach and methodology
Your research approach and methodology are crucial components of your grant proposal. In the approach section, you should outline your research methodology, starting with an overview that summarizes your aims and hypotheses. You should also introduce your research team and justify their involvement in the project, highlighting their academic background and experience. Additionally, you should describe their roles within the team. It’s also important to include a timeline that breaks down your research plan into different stages, each with specific goals.
In the methodology section, detail your research methods, anticipated results, and limitations. Be sure to consider the potential limitations that could occur and provide solutions to overcome them. Remember, never give a limitation without providing a solution.
Knowing the common reasons why grant proposals fail can help you avoid making these mistakes. The five key reasons for grant failure are:
By avoiding these pitfalls, you will increase your chances of receiving the funding you need to carry out your research successfully.
Writing a successful grant proposal requires careful planning and execution. Here are some tips to help you create a strong grant proposal:
Writing a successful grant proposal is an important skill for any researcher. By following the key criteria and tips outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of securing funding for your research. Remember to be clear, concise, and innovative in your writing, and to address any potential weaknesses in your proposal. With a well-written grant proposal, you can make your research goals a reality.
If you are looking for help with your grant application, come talk to us at GrantDesk. We have grant experts who are ready to help you get the research funding you need.
Anthony Esposito Senior Account Manager at PandaDoc
Reviewed by:
Brittany Farnham Senior Program Manager, Marketing
Get personalized 1:1 demo with our product specialist.
By submitting this form, I agree that the Terms of Service and Privacy Notice will govern the use of services I receive and personal data I provide respectively.
A grant proposal is a request for funding that organizations submit to grant-making bodies.
In grant proposals, organizations present an initiative, explain its objectives and expected timeline, provide evidence of its importance, and describe how they would use grant funds to implement it.
To be successful, a grant proposal must convince potential funders of the value and impact of the proposed project.
In this guide, we outline how to efficiently create a winning grant proposal.
→DOWNLOAD NOW: FREE GRANT PROPOSAL TEMPLATE
Grant writing can open doors to funding sources that are vital to your project’s success.
In fact, submitting three to five grant applications may put your chances of winning at least one grant at around 90% .
Keep in mind that grant-making entities want to invest in projects and initiatives that will have a powerful impact on issues they care about.
The United States government offers thousands of grants that nonprofit organizations may apply for, providing various amounts of funding for projects that will have an impact across the country.
Additionally, around 40% of Fortune 500 companies have volunteer grant programs, through which they provide financial grants to nonprofits and recognize volunteer work done by their employees.
Before you start writing, take the time to prepare carefully. Consider each of the following.
Applying for grants means setting aside time to search for the right grants, writing proposals, and going through the grant selection process.
Plan for this time as well as any associated costs, such as for research and professional writing help.
Most organizations rely on multiple funding sources, and grant opportunities shouldn’t change that.
Remember that grants can be competitive and funding limited.
Compare the value of an award against the time you will need to invest before pursuing an opportunity.
Be clear about desired outcomes, estimated timelines, and other funding sources before you start writing a grant application.
Your proposal will be evaluated by grant-making bodies and committees who may choose to award funds to your competitors or simply choose not to award any funding due to a lack of matching and/or credible proposals.
You may also need to create an online account and go through verification processes before you can submit grant applications — for example, organizations seeking federal funding need to register with the federal grant program before they can request a grant.
See if submitting a grant inquiry first makes sense.
If the grant-making body responds positively to your inquiry and sends you a request for a formal grant proposal, you can proceed with writing a detailed RFP response .
Document management software can assist you in preparing a thorough and professional grant application.
And modern software tools can handle quotes as well as agreements, contracts , and other types of documents that grants may require.
With those basics out of the way, let’s look at the structure you should adhere to for a standard grant proposal.
A well-written grant proposal is your chance to make a great impression on a potential funder.
It should be engaging and to the point, highlighting why your project is important and deserves the grant.
Follow the steps below to create a compelling proposal that will help you win the grant you need.
Your cover letter is the perfect opportunity to captivate a funder with a casual tone and urge them to delve into your proposal.
Here are some dos and don’ts when it comes to cover letters:
Get to the point quickly and state your intentions up front. Don’t exceed three to four paragraphs. | There’s no need to write a heartfelt story about your mission or organization. Convey your message in a conversational manner, but stay focused on your arguments. |
At the very beginning of the cover letter, mention how much money you need and for what purpose. Don’t be afraid to be direct — you deserve this grant, so make sure the reader knows it. | Don’t reference or compare yourself to competing organizations. Just state your desired outcome and make a good first impression. |
Show that you understand the funder and draw a straight line from their mission and funds to your proposed project. | This isn’t the place to recap what you wrote in your proposal. Instead, provide additional information that is valuable to the reader. |
Here is how a good cover letter can start:
Dear Mr. Jones,
[Name of Clinic] respectfully requests a grant of $30,000 for our veterinary hospital project in South Boston.
As the largest independent pet hospital in this part of the city, we are aware of the challenges pet owners in our service area are facing. We are particularly concerned about the lack of service quality in South Boston given that it has the largest number of pets per capita of any neighborhood in the city.
We are committed to solving this issue by growing our community and providing our expertise to the people and animals of South Boston by the end of 2024.
The veterinary hospital project will allow us to provide access […]
No fluff and right to the point!
To produce a winning grant proposal, you should start with an executive summary.
Also known as a proposal summary, an executive summary is a brief synopsis of the entire proposal.
It should introduce your organization, market segment, and project goals, offering specifics yet getting right to the point.
Provide just enough information to give the grantor a solid idea of who you are and what you need the money for. | The only place to do this is in the cover letter. In the grant application, the tone should be more formal. |
Mention the funds you’re requesting, and briefly explain your methodology when it comes to spending them. | Don’t go too deep into the project description, as you will have space for this later. |
Tell the grantor (in brief) about your organization’s history, mission, and objectives. |
Here are some questions that a good grant writer will answer in the executive summary:
1. What is the organization’s mission and history ? What does the organization do?
2. What is the project about? Who will it help?
3. What problem is the organization solving , and why does it matter?
4. What is the end goal for the project, and how can the organization measure its achievement?
5. Why should the organization receive the grant? What are the organization’s competencies ?
6. How much money does the organization need, and how does it plan to finance the project in the future ? Are there other funding sources ?
Now that you’ve set the stage for the entire proposal, you can start with introducing your organization.
Share as much relevant information as you can about your infrastructure, history, mission, experience, etc.
Here, you should include information about key staff members, success stories demonstrating your track record and highlighting your expertise, and an explanation of the organization’s goals and philosophy.
Client recommendations , letters of thanks , and feedback from customers and the general public should definitely be included in a grant proposal.
Be sure to also include valid industry certifications ( ISO or quality certifications ), licenses, and business and indemnity insurance details.
You need to show that your company or organization has the capacity to produce all deliverables while meeting all legal, safety, and quality obligations.
You may also need to provide solvency statements to prove that you can meet your financial commitments to your staff and contractors.
It’s easy to start patting yourself on the back a little too much and try to convince grant reviewers that you’re the best of the best. Try to avoid this trap and stay factual. | You don’t need to list of your employees by name. Provide short bios of key staff (like the executive director) and simply mention the total number of employees. |
When was the company/organization started, and why? Try to connect your mission to that of the grantmaker as naturally as possible. | This entire section should be formulated to make the point that you’re the organization best suited to make good use of the funding. |
One of the most important parts of the grant proposal structure is the problem statement.
Also known as the needs statement or statement of need , this is where you explain the problem you have identified and how you can solve it.
You may have to do extensive research on the history of the underlying problem, including previous solutions that were implemented and potentially failed.
Then, you should explain why your solution will make a difference.
In a winning grant proposal, the problem statement will heavily rely on quantitative data and clearly display how your organization answers a need.
Look at the results achieved by others who have already implemented your solution or a similar solution. | It’s not that needs the grant funding; it’s . |
Underline why it’s essential to start this project rather than later. | For example, instead of saying that , talk about . That should be the thinking behind your writing process. |
Stick to the key problem you’re addressing rather than talking about contributing factors. |
Here’s how a brief problem statement could look:
A 2023 report from [Name of Institution] showed that the city of [Name of City] has the highest [problem + rate] per capita in the state of [Name of State]. Another study by [Name of Institution] confirmed these findings in 2024 , highlighting the importance of [potential solution] in dealing with these issues.
There is a need for education and professional services in [list of fields and industries], backed by expertise and strong infrastructure.
To meet this need, [Name of Organization] proposes a program for [program’s purpose] that would, for the first time, address the problem of [description of problem].
With PandaDoc, you get a free grant proposal template that has all of these sections incorporated!
Grant Proposal Template
Used 10888 times
4.3 rating (81 reviews)
Reviewed by Denis Malkov
Another important part of the grant proposal is clearly stating your goals and objectives.
Whereas goals are broad statements of what you wish to achieve, objectives are specific, with measurable outcomes and time frames.
Many grant proposals fail because they do not present clear goals or do not define how objectives will be measured.
This section is key to providing information on the benefits that the funder, community, government, or client (if different from the funder) will see for their investment.
An objective is something you want to , not . | Make sure your goals are attainable, and don’t get ahead of yourself. |
You can’t track your progress if your objectives aren’t : Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound. | Goals should be stated as results and measurable outcomes with a deadline, not as processes. |
The final result of your project should always be the betterment of your community, expressed in a measurable way. |
Here is an example of a well-formulated goal and objective.
Goal: Improve literacy and the overall ability to express oneself among children from inner-city schools in [Name of Community].
Objective: To improve, by the end of the 2024 school year, the results of reading and writing tests among fourth-graders in [Name of Community] by at least 20% compared to current results (average 55/100).
Notice how the goal is optimistic and abstract while the objective is measurable and specific.
Now that the funding agency knows your goals, it’s time to tell them how you plan on achieving them.
List the new hires and skills, facilities, means of transportation, and other resources you need to deliver the project and achieve your definition of success.
Your strategies need to be connected to the objectives you’ve outlined, as well as to the needs statement. | Don’t approach topics assuming the reader is well-versed in the field. Be specific and introduce your methodologies as though you’re talking to someone who knows nothing about your organization or your ideas. |
If you can, find examples of when these same strategies worked for previous projects. | You need to demonstrate that the particular strategies you have chosen make sense for your audience. |
Make sure that the grantmaker realizes your methods are rational, well-researched, and cost-effective. |
In this section of your grant proposal, you need to cover how you will track your program’s progress.
You should also include the time frame needed for evaluation and who will complete it, including the specific skills or products needed and the cost of the evaluation phase of the project.
This is one of the most important steps in writing a grant proposal, as all funders will look for evaluations.
Whether government agencies or private foundations, grantmakers want to know if the programs they have invested in make a difference.
Keep in mind that an evaluation can be expensive, so you should clearly define the scope of activities involved as well as your methodologies.
However you imagine your evaluation process, it needs to include some sort of feedback from the community affected by the project. | You need to clearly outline measurement methods for metrics that will tell both you and your funders how the program is doing. |
whether your own staff will be doing the assessment or you will hire an external agency to perform it independently. | It’s not just about measuring success; it’s about measuring success . Make sure your evaluation strategies are periodic. |
To go back to our child literacy example, here is how an evaluation strategy might look:
Project Evaluation
Program facilitators will administer a set of pre-tests and post-tests to students in order to determine to which degree the project is fulfilling objectives. Tests will be created by external collaborators (experts in child education) and will take place on a monthly basis for the duration of the program.
After each session, participating teachers will be asked to write a qualitative evaluation in order to identify areas for improvement and generate feedback […]
Your funders won’t like the idea of investing in a short-term project that has no prospects.
They’ll be much more willing to reward a promising project that can run on a larger scale.
That’s why you need to show how you can make this happen.
This section of your grant proposal is for funding requirements that go beyond the project: the total cost of ownership including ongoing maintenance, daily business operations, and operational support.
You should articulate projected ongoing costs for at least five years.
An accurate cost model needs to include inflation, specialist skills, ongoing training, potential future growth, and decommissioning expenses when the project or product reaches the end of its life cycle.
Most grant reviewers will know a thing or two about business plans, so you need to show a viable blueprint for sustainability. Exactly how will you generate revenue and keep the project going? | Don’t leave space for speculation or filling in the blanks. Everything needs to be outlined and you need to show — without a doubt — that your program can run even after the initial resources are gone. |
If you plan to get more government funding, this is the place to mention it, as doing so is a good long-term strategy. |
Of course, one of the most important grant proposal topics is budgeting . This is the moment when you go into detail about exactly how you’ll use the grant resources.
Make sure to justify all expenses. Remember that the project budget section is the true meat of your grant proposal.
Having too high of a budget can lose you the grant and even be seen as an attempt at profiteering.
Underquoting might win you the grant, but you may not be able to deliver on your proposal, which could harm your standing as a grantee in the funder’s eyes.
Many grant writers underquote in the hope of increasing their attractiveness and then looking for additional funding at a later stage.
However, this is a dangerous game to play and could affect your individual or company brand, community standing, and industry reputation.
Everything needs to be covered. Travel costs, supplies, advertising, personnel — don’t leave anything out. | Especially if you’re not that good with numbers, don’t hesitate to include other people and assemble a team to tackle this task. |
It can be easy to leave out a zero or move a decimal point and distort all your figures. Be thorough! | A lot of grant writers leave out indirect costs like insurance, utilities, and trash pickup. These can stack up, so don’t forget them! |
A lot of decimal values and uneven numbers make the proposed budget harder to follow. |
Here’s how a project budget might look for a cross-country research study grant:
Item | Qty. | Cost | Subtotal | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|
LA-London (roundtrip) | 4 | $1,100 | $4,400 | $4,400 |
Research Assistant | 6 months | $500 | $3,000 | |
Moderator | 6 months | $400 | $2,400 | |
SD memory cards | 10 | $50 | $500 | |
Laptop Computer | 2 | $1,120 | $2,240 | |
Automation software subscription | 6 months | $20 | $120 | |
Camera and aux. equipment | 1 | $2,400 | $2,400 | |
Office space | 6 months | $1,200 | $7,200 | |
Transportation within country | 6 months | $2,000 | $12,000 | |
Below a table like this one, you can further clarify any key points, like what a research assistant will do and why they’re needed for the study.
Writing an accurate and effective grant proposal can be time-consuming and costly, but you can use software to save time and money.
With hundreds of customizable templates , the PandaDoc platform can help you ensure that your proposal is professional and tailored to your organization’s specific needs.
You can use it to seamlessly create, eSign, and share your grant proposals, then later leverage comprehensive document analytics and tracking to monitor their impact in real time.
Schedule a demo to learn more about optimizing and expediting your grant proposal writing.
What is the difference between a grant proposal and a grant letter.
It’s quite easy to confuse a grant proposal with a grant letter.
But a grant proposal contains all the sections we mentioned: the project’s summary, a cover letter, problem statement, etc. and is typically pretty long.
Some companies or individual investors consider this document too long and prefer a grant letter, which is a shorter, much more streamlined document. A grant letter typically doesn’t exceed 3-4 pages although it has a similar structure.
Here you should emphasize the significance of your project and its contribution to science if implemented successfully.
Back it up with relevant statistics, scientific facts, and research data on the subject. It’s important to use simple terms comprehensible to the prospective Grantee.
Also, explain why you are the one who can finish this project: provide some proof of your expertise to make your proposal stronger.
Besides the project description, you need to mention how it will improve the education system.
Detail how your project will improve student’s productivity, increase their knowledge, and make their overall learning process better.
Educational projects usually involve a team of people who will put the idea into practice. Provide more information about each team member and why this person can perform their duties.
Even though the inspiration can’t be forced, an art project should be time-specific. Mention the start and end date of your activity.
Otherwise, a prospective grant may not take it seriously.
Primarily you should convey your message to the grant-making organization, even if they don’t know much about the kind of art you create. Explain the idea in the simplest way so anybody can understand it clearly.
Unlike other organizations, an NGO needs to drill down to the key community issues and show how deeply its work can affect the people it’s meant to serve.
Given the democratic and often local nature of NGOs, their work will be viewed more through an altruistic lens.
An NGO also needs to pay special attention to demonstrating the sustainability of the project over time, since that’s a unique problem to NGOs and something that commercial businesses have already dealt with.
There isn’t a strict rule when it comes to grant proposals — their length will always depend on the complexity of the issue it covers and the amount of research behind it.
Typically, a grant proposal should be up to 25 pages , although different funding institutions will often put this in their “ Rules ” section — so read those carefully!
Proposal writing is slightly different from regular writing: it needs to follow a specific structure and rules.
Add to that all the research and argumentation needed to write a good proposal, and you’ll be looking at hours, days, or even weeks if you’re really a perfectionist.
As a rule of thumb, you should devote one week to writing a proposal. Although you might finish earlier, it’s good to have enough time to cover everything.
PandaDoc is not a law firm, or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. This page is not intended to and does not provide legal advice. Should you have legal questions on the validity of e-signatures or digital signatures and the enforceability thereof, please consult with an attorney or law firm. Use of PandaDocs services are governed by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Originally was published March 2014 and has been updated for comprehensiveness in May, 2024
Proposals 12 min
Proposals 14 min
Proposals 24 min
Securing grants requires strategic planning. Identifying relevant opportunities, building collaborations, and crafting a comprehensive grant proposal are crucial steps. Read our ultimate guide on grant writing, finding grants, and applying for grants to get the funding for your research.
Updated on February 22, 2024
Embarking on a journey of groundbreaking research and innovation always requires more than just passion and dedication, it demands financial support. In the academic and research domains, securing grants is a pivotal factor for transforming these ideas into tangible outcomes.
Grant awards not only offer the backing needed for ambitious projects but also stand as a testament to the importance and potential impact of your work. The process of identifying, pursuing, and securing grants, however, is riddled with nuances that necessitate careful exploration.
Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a budding academic, navigating this complex world of grants can be challenging, but we’re here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps of applying for grants, providing expert tips and insights along the way.
Prior to diving into the application phase, the process of finding grants involves researching and identifying those that are relevant and realistic to your project. While the initial step may seem as simple as entering a few keywords into a search engine, the full search phase takes a more thorough investigation.
By focusing efforts solely on the grants that align with your goals, this pre-application preparation streamlines the process while also increasing the likelihood of meeting all the requirements. In fact, having a well thought out plan and a clear understanding of the grants you seek both simplifies the entire activity and sets you and your team up for success.
Apply these steps when searching for appropriate grant opportunities:
Before embarking on the grant-seeking journey, clearly articulate why you need the funds and how they will be utilized. Understanding your financial requirements is crucial for effective grant research.
Grants operate on specific timelines with set award dates. Align your grant-seeking efforts with these timelines to enhance your chances of success.
Build a checklist of your most important, non-negotiable search criteria for quickly weeding out grant options that absolutely do not fit your project. Then, utilize the following resources to identify potential grants:
After familiarizing yourself with the criteria of each grant, including paperwork, deadlines, and award amounts, make a spreadsheet or use a project management tool to stay organized. Share this with your team to ensure that everyone can contribute to the grant cycle.
Here are a few popular grant management tools to try:
Consider large funding sources : Explore major agencies like NSF and NIH.
Reach out to experts : Consult experienced researchers and your institution's grant office.
Stay informed : Regularly check news in your field for novel funding sources.
Know agency requirements : Research and align your proposal with their requisites.
Ask questions : Use the available resources to get insights into the process.
Demonstrate expertise : Showcase your team's knowledge and background.
Neglect lesser-known sources : Cast a wide net to diversify opportunities.
Name drop reviewers : Prevent potential conflicts of interest.
Miss your chance : Find field-specific grant options.
Forget refinement : Improve proposal language, grammar, and clarity.
Ignore grant support services : Enhance the quality of your proposal.
Overlook co-investigators : Enhance your application by adding experience.
Now that you’ve taken the initial step of identifying potential grant opportunities, it’s time to find collaborators. The application process is lengthy and arduous. It requires a diverse set of skills. This phase is crucial for success.
With their valuable expertise and unique perspectives, these collaborators play instrumental roles in navigating the complexities of grant writing. While exploring the judiciousness that goes into building these partnerships, we will underscore why collaboration is both advantageous and indispensable to the pursuit of securing grants.
Some grant funding agencies outline collaboration as an outright requirement for acceptable applications. However, the condition is more implied with others. Funders may simply favor or seek out applications that represent multidisciplinary and multinational projects.
To get an idea of the types of collaboration major funders prefer, try searching “collaborative research grants” to uncover countless possibilities, such as:
For exploring grants specifically for international collaboration, check out this blog:
Either way, proposing an interdisciplinary research project substantially increases your funding opportunities. Teaming up with multiple collaborators who offer diverse backgrounds and skill sets enhances the robustness of your research project and increases credibility.
This is especially true for early career researchers, who can leverage collaboration with industry, international, or community partners to boost their research profile. The key lies in recognizing the multifaceted advantages of collaboration in the context of obtaining funding and maximizing the impact of your research efforts.
Before embarking on the search for a collaborative partner, it's essential to crystallize your objectives for the grant proposal and identify the type of support needed. Ask yourself these questions:
1)Which facet of the grant process do I need assistance with:
2) Is my knowledge lacking in a specific:
3) Do I have access to the necessary:
Use these questions to compile a detailed list of your needs and prioritize them based on magnitude and ramification. These preliminary step ensure that search for an ideal collaborator is focused and effective.
Once you identify targeted criteria for the most appropriate partners, it’s time to make your approach. While a practical starting point involves reaching out to peers, mentors, and other colleagues with shared interests and research goals, we encourage you to go outside your comfort zone.
Beyond the first line of potential collaborators exists a world of opportunities to expand your network. Uncover partnership possibilities by engaging with speakers and attendees at events, workshops, webinars, and conferences related to grant writing or your field.
Also, consider joining online communities that facilitate connections among grant writers and researchers. These communities offer a space to exchange ideas and information. Sites like Collaboratory , NIH RePorter , and upwork provide channels for canvassing and engaging with feasible collaborators who are good fits for your project.
Like any other partnership, carefully weigh your vetted options before committing to a collaboration. Talk with individuals about their qualifications and experience, availability and work style, and terms for grant writing collaborations.
Transparency on both sides of this partnership is imperative to forging a positive work environment where goals, values, and expectations align for a strong grant proposal.
It’s time to assemble the bulk of your grant application packet – the proposal itself. Each funder is unique in outlining the details for specific grants, but here are several elements fundamental to every proposal:
This list of multi-faceted components may seem daunting, but careful research and planning will make it manageable.
Start by reading about the grant funder to learn:
Next, view sample applications to get a feel for the length, flow, and tone the evaluators are looking for. Many funders offer samples to peruse, like these from the NIH , while others are curated by online platforms , such as Grantstation.
Also, closely evaluate the grant application’s requirements. they vary between funding organizations and opportunities, and also from one grant cycle to the next. Take notes and make a checklist of these requirements to add to an Excel spreadsheet, Google smartsheet, or management system for organizing and tracking your grant process.
Finally, understand how you will submit the final grant application. Many funders use online portals with character or word limits for each section. Be aware of these limits beforehand. Simplify the editing process by first writing each section in a Word document to be copy and pasted into the corresponding submission fields.
If there is no online application platform, the funder will usually offer a comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) to guide the structure of your grant proposal. The RFP:
Cover letter.
Though not always explicitly requested, including a cover letter is a strategic maneuver that could be the factor determining whether or not grant funders engage with your proposal. It’s an opportunity to give your best first impression by grabbing the reviewer’s attention and compelling them to read further.
Cover letters are not the place for excessive emotion or detail, keep it brief and direct, stating your financial needs and purpose confidently from the outset. Also, try to clearly demonstrate the connection between your project and the funder’s mission to create additional value beyond the formal proposal.
Like an abstract for your research manuscript, the executive summary is a brief synopsis that encapsulates the overarching topics and key points of your grant proposal. It must set the tone for the main body of the proposal while providing enough information to stand alone if necessary.
Refer to How to Write an Executive Summary for a Grant Proposal for detailed guidance like:
After the executive summary is the project narrative . This is the main body of your grant proposal and encompasses several distinct elements that work together to tell the story of your project and justify the need for funding.
Include these primary components:
Briefly outline the names, positions, and credentials of the project’s directors, key personnel, contributors, and advisors in a format that clearly defines their roles and responsibilities. Showing your team’s capacity and ability to meet all deliverables builds confidence and trust with the reviewers.
A compelling needs assessment (or problem statement) clearly articulates a problem that must be urgently addressed. It also offers a well-defined project idea as a possible solution. This statement emphasizes the pressing situation and highlights existing gaps and their consequences to illustrate how your project will make a difference.
To begin, ask yourself these questions:
Here are some helpful examples and templates.
Goals are broad statements that are fairly abstract and intangible. Objectives are more narrow statements that are concrete and measurable. For example :
Focus on outcomes, not processes, when crafting goals and objectives. Use the SMART acronym to align them with the proposal's mission while emphasizing their impact on the target audience.
It is vitally important to explain how you intend to use the grant funds to fulfill the project’s objectives. Detail the resources and activities that will be employed. Methods and strategies are the bridge between idea and action. They must prove to reviewers the plausibility of your project and the significance of their possible funding.
Here are some useful guidelines for writing your methods section that are outlined in " Winning Grants: Step by Step ."
A comprehensive evaluation plan underscores the effectiveness and accountability of a project for both the funders and your team. An evaluation is used for tracking progress and success. The evaluation process shows how to determine the success of your project and measure the impact of the grant award by systematically gauging and analyzing each phase of your project as it compares to the set objectives.
Evaluations typically fall into two standard categories:
1. Formative evaluation : extending from project development through implementation, continuously provides feedback for necessary adjustments and improvements.
2. Summative evaluation : conducted post-project completion, critically assesses overall success and impact by compiling information on activities and outcomes.
Creating a conceptual model of your project is helpful when identifying these key evaluation points. Then, you must consider exactly who will do the evaluations, what specific skills and resources they need, how long it will take, and how much it will cost.
Presenting a solid plan that illustrates exactly how your project will continue to thrive after the grant money is gone builds the funder's confidence in the project’s longevity and significance. In this sustainability section, it is vital to demonstrate a diversified funding strategy for securing the long-term viability of your program.
There are three possible long term outcomes for projects with correlated sustainability options:
(E.g., digitizing records, cleaning up after an oil spill)
(E.g., medical device, technology, farming method)
(E.g., space exploration, hurricane tracking)
Along with strategies for funding your program beyond the initial grant, reference your access to institutional infrastructure and resources that will reduce costs.
Also, submit multi-year budgets that reflect how sustainability factors are integrated into the project’s design.
The budget section of your grant proposal, comprising both a spreadsheet and a narrative, is the most influential component. It should be able to stand independently as a suitable representation of the entire endeavor. Providing a detailed plan to outline how grant funds will be utilized is crucial for illustrating cost-effectiveness and careful consideration of project expenses.
A comprehensive grant budget offers numerous benefits to both the grantor , or entity funding the grant, and the grantee , those receiving the funding, such as:
Because the grant proposal budget is all-encompassing and integral to your efforts for securing funding, it can seem overwhelming. Start by listing all anticipated expenditures within two broad categories, direct and indirect expenses , where:
After compiling your list, review sample budgets to understand the typical layout and complexity. Focus closely on the budget narratives , where you have the opportunity to justify each aspect of the spreadsheet to ensure clarity and validity.
While not always needed, the appendices consist of relevant supplementary materials that are clearly referenced within your grant application. These might include:
Now that your grant application is finished, make sure it's not just another document in the stack Aim for a grant proposal that captivates the evaluator. It should stand out not only for presenting an excellent project, but for being engaging and easily comprehended .
Keep the language simple. Avoid jargon. Prioritizing accuracy and conciseness. Opt for reader-friendly formatting with white space, headings, standard fonts, and illustrations to enhance readability.
Always take time for thorough proofreading and editing. You can even set your proposal aside for a few days before revisiting it for additional edits and improvements. At this stage, it is helpful to seek outside feedback from those familiar with the subject matter as well as novices to catch unnoticed mistakes and improve clarity.
If you want to be absolutely sure your grant proposal is polished, consider getting it edited by AJE .
When used efficiently, AI is a powerful tool for streamlining and enhancing various aspects of the grant process.
Remember that AI provides a diverse array of tools; there is no universal solution. Identify the most suitable tool for your specific task. Also, like a screwdriver or a hammer, AI needs informed human direction and control to work effectively.
Check out these resources:
The bottom line – applying for grants is challenging. It requires passion, dedication, and a set of diverse skills rarely found within one human being.
Therefore, collaboration is key to a successful grant process . It encourages everyone’s strengths to shine. Be honest and ask yourself, “Which elements of this grant application do I really need help with?” Seek out experts in those areas.
Keep this guide on hand to reference as you work your way through this funding journey. Use the resources contained within. Seek out answers to all the questions that will inevitably arise throughout the process.
The grants are out there just waiting for the right project to present itself – one that shares the funder’s mission and is a benefit to our communities. Find grants that align with your project goals, tell your story through a compelling proposal, and get ready to make the world a better place with your research.
The AJE Team
See our "Privacy Policy"
Reference management. Clean and simple.
Why should you write a grant proposal, format of a grant proposal, how to write a grant proposal, step 1: decide what funding opportunity to apply for, and research the grant application process, step 2: plan and research your project, preliminary research for your grant proposal, questions to ask yourself as you plan your grant proposal, developing your grant proposal, step 3: write the first draft of your grant proposal, step 4: get feedback, and revise your grant proposal accordingly, step 5: prepare to submit your grant proposal, what happens after submitting the grant proposal, final thoughts, other useful sources for writing grant proposals, frequently asked questions about writing grant proposals, related articles.
You have a vision for a future research project, and want to share that idea with the world.
To achieve your vision, you need funding from a sponsoring organization, and consequently, you need to write a grant proposal.
Although visualizing your future research through grant writing is exciting, it can also feel daunting. How do you start writing a grant proposal? How do you increase your chances of success in winning a grant?
But, writing a proposal is not as hard as you think. That’s because the grant-writing process can be broken down into actionable steps.
This guide provides a step-by-step approach to grant-writing that includes researching the application process, planning your research project, and writing the proposal. It is written from extensive research into grant-writing, and our experiences of writing proposals as graduate students, postdocs, and faculty in the sciences.
A grant proposal is a document or collection of documents that outlines the strategy for a future research project and is submitted to a sponsoring organization with the specific goal of getting funding to support the research. For example, grants for large projects with multiple researchers may be used to purchase lab equipment, provide stipends for graduate and undergraduate researchers, fund conference travel, and support the salaries of research personnel.
As a graduate student, you might apply for a PhD scholarship, or postdoctoral fellowship, and may need to write a proposal as part of your application. As a faculty member of a university, you may need to provide evidence of having submitted grant applications to obtain a permanent position or promotion.
Reasons for writing a grant proposal include:
The experience of writing a proposal can be helpful, even if you fail to obtain funding. Benefits include:
All sponsoring agencies have specific requirements for the format of a grant proposal. For example, for a PhD scholarship or postdoctoral fellowship, you may be required to include a description of your project, an academic CV, and letters of support from mentors or collaborators.
For a large research project with many collaborators, the collection of documents that need to be submitted may be extensive. Examples of documents that might be required include a cover letter, a project summary, a detailed description of the proposed research, a budget, a document justifying the budget, and the CVs of all research personnel.
Before writing your proposal, be sure to note the list of required documents.
Writing a grant proposal can be broken down into three major activities: researching the project (reading background materials, note-taking, preliminary work, etc.), writing the proposal (creating an outline, writing the first draft, revisions, formatting), and administrative tasks for the project (emails, phone calls, meetings, writing CVs and other supporting documents, etc.).
Below, we provide a step-by-step guide to writing a grant proposal:
Now that you know what you are applying for, you can think about matching your proposed research to the aims of the agency. The work you propose needs to be innovative, specific, realizable, timely, and worthy of the sponsoring organization’s attention.
To facilitate intelligent thinking and shape the overall direction of your project, try answering the following questions:
Create an actionable plan for your research project using the answers to these questions.
At this stage, you should have identified the aims of your project, what questions your work will answer, and how they are relevant to the sponsoring agency’s call for proposals. Be able to explain the originality, importance, and achievability of your proposed work.
Now that you have done your research, you are ready to begin writing your proposal and start filling in the details of your outline. Build on the writing routine you have already started. Here are some tips:
After writing your first draft, read it carefully to gain an overview of the logic of your argument. Answer the following questions:
Now take time away from your proposal, for at least a week or more. Ask trusted mentors or collaborators to read it, and give them adequate time to give critical feedback.
Now you are almost ready to submit. This is exciting! At this stage, you need to block out time to complete all final checks.
Now you wait! If the news is positive, congratulations!
But if your proposal is rejected, take heart in the fact that the process of writing it has been useful for your professional growth, and for developing your ideas.
Bear in mind that because grants are often highly competitive, acceptance rates for proposals are usually low. It is very typical to not be successful on the first try and to have to apply for the same grant multiple times.
Here are some tips to increase your chances of success on your next attempt:
You learn about your field and grow intellectually from writing a proposal. The process of researching, writing, and revising a proposal refines your ideas and may create new directions for future projects. Professional opportunities exist for researchers who are willing to persevere with submitting grant applications.
➡️ Secrets to writing a winning grant
➡️ How to gain a competitive edge in grant writing
➡️ Ten simple rules for writing a postdoctoral fellowship
A grant proposal should include all the documents listed as required by the sponsoring organization. Check what documents the granting agency needs before you start writing the proposal.
Granting agencies have strict formatting requirements, with strict page limits and/or word counts. Check the maximum length required by the granting agency. It is okay for the proposal to be shorter than the maximum length.
Expect to spend many hours, even weeks, researching and writing a grant proposal. Consequently, it is important to start early! Block time in your calendar for research, writing, and administration tasks. Allow extra time at the end of the grant-writing process to edit, proofread, and meet presentation guidelines.
The most important part of a grant proposal is the description of the project. Make sure that the research you propose in your project narrative is new, important, and viable, and that it meets the goals of the sponsoring organization.
A grant proposal typically consists of a set of documents. Funding agencies have specific requirements for the formatting and organization of each document. Make sure to follow their guidelines exactly.
We use essential cookies to make Venngage work. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.
Manage Cookies
Cookies and similar technologies collect certain information about how you’re using our website. Some of them are essential, and without them you wouldn’t be able to use Venngage. But others are optional, and you get to choose whether we use them or not.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
These cookies are always on, as they’re essential for making Venngage work, and making it safe. Without these cookies, services you’ve asked for can’t be provided.
Show cookie providers
Functionality Cookies
These cookies help us provide enhanced functionality and personalisation, and remember your settings. They may be set by us or by third party providers.
Performance Cookies
These cookies help us analyze how many people are using Venngage, where they come from and how they're using it. If you opt out of these cookies, we can’t get feedback to make Venngage better for you and all our users.
Targeting Cookies
These cookies are set by our advertising partners to track your activity and show you relevant Venngage ads on other sites as you browse the internet.
Blog Business How to Write a Grant Proposal [Templates Included]
Written by: Tobi Ojenike Feb 28, 2024
If you work for a nonprofit organization or are a researcher, you’ll know that a grant proposal is a document submitted to a funding agency.
Grant proposals are also known as a request for application, notice of funding opportunity, or request for quotes and qualifications.
Grant proposals are your chance to convince grantmaking bodies (agencies that distribute funds) to hand over money. Generally, grant proposals include information such as an organization’s mission and budgetary needs.
In this post, I’ll show you how to write a successful grant proposal (tips and templates included!) and then teach you how to make a grant proposal using a Proposal Maker and grant proposal templates .
Click to jump ahead:
Sample grant proposal templates.
Here are some extra tips to help you write a grant proposal that stands out.
Grant writing can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be if you understand the basics.
In this section, I’ll give you tips on how to write grant proposals that’ll impress prospective funders (grant writers take note!).
The cover letter is not technically part of a grant proposal but they’re core to a successful grant application because it helps funders understand who you are.
Busy decisionmakers want to know who they’ll be funding and look for clues in your cover letter after reading through your proposal.
In your cover letter, don’t be afraid to bring out your personality, but also make sure you cover the basics like how your project fits with the funder’s objective.
The executive summary is probably the first (and maybe only) part of a grant proposal read by a funding organization.
It needs to be concise and summarize key points such as goal, strategy, people involved, expected results, and budgetary needs.
Here’s an example executive summary for some inspiration.
Providing organizational information in a grant proposal helps build credibility and establishes trust.
More importantly, this section allows funders to assess the alignment between their funding priorities and your organization’s goals and activities.
Therefore, make sure to answer questions like: What is your mission? Do you have an organizational history? What will be the impact of this project? What other programs or services do you render?
Here’s an example of background organizational information you can make your own.
Early in your grant proposal, you should state the objectives of your project, the target audience, and expected results.
This underscores the feasibility of your project within a grant timeframe and can influence funders’ decision on a project’s worthiness (i.e.; the difference between a yes and no).
Here’s a great example of a grant proposal that nails this section.
The statement of needs section is used to build strong case for your project.
In this section, use data, facts and figures to back statements. This will be more meaningful than just words alone.
But make sure your data is accurate. There’s nothing worse than misleading information which can lead to rejections and damage your reputation.
Here’s a grant proposal template that has a customizable statement of needs.
You’ve identified a problem and solution, but how are you going to achieve what you plan to do?
That’s what the methods and strategies section is for. Here, potential funders want to see how you’ll use their funds to determine if the project is viable.
For example, maybe your objective is to enhance community health through a mobile clinic initiative.
Detail each step of this process from procurement of medical equipment and vehicles, recruitment and training process for healthcare professionals, and logistics for deploying mobile clinics.
Here’s an example of a grant proposal that first lists goals and objectives and immediately provides an overview of the path to success.
When funders hand out money, they have certain conditions, like making sure you are held accountable of project progress. Often, you’ll only get more money to continue as you complete milestones.
The evaluation plan section is where you show funders how you’ll spend money as described in your grant proposal to ease their fears and doubts.
This section also shows funders that you have a realistic timeline for the project and that you’re not using the funds for any other purposes.
Perhaps the most part of your grant proposal is the project budget. This is where you reveal exactly how you’ll be using funds.
Be transparent and provide a full overview of expenses and detail where and how it’ll be spent.
A great way to do this is to use an itemized table or financial plan.
When presenting an overall sum, make sure you don’t overstate or understate your needs. You don’t want funders to doubt your true intent or doubt project viability.
Here’s a grant proposal with a budget section you can use.
Most grant writers overlook including a long-term financial sustainability plan.
Most funders view grants as a long-term investment and want to back projects that can be sustainable even after the money stops rolling in.
Demonstrating a clear understanding of these factors shows funders that you have thoroughly considered the project’s financial trajectory and are prepared to manage it responsibly.
What should you include here? Total cost of future ownership, maintenance costs, inflation, ongoing, and future growth potential are a few ideas.
Treat grant proposals as official documentation.
At the end of your grant proposal, include your (or your company’s) contact details. This makes it easier for the funders to reach out to you and do their research on you and your team.
Here’s an example of a grant proposal with a great ‘about us’ section.
Now that you understand the basics of a grant proposal, it’s time to get to work and create your own.
But you don’t need to start from scratch. Instead, edit these grant proposal templates and convert them into your own winning proposal
(Hint: visit the links to see the entire template).
If you want to create grant proposals that grab attention, look no further than Venngage.
With Venngage, you can you communicate boring technical info with engaging visuals and customize our professionally-designed grant proposal templates.
You don’t need to be a designer to use Venngage. If you know how to work Microsoft Word or Google Slides or similar tools, you can use Venngage.
Sign up for a Venngage account for free using your email, Gmail or Facebook.
Venngage already has grant proposal templates you can edit to suit your idea and vision.
To find them, go to our templates page and choose the “Proposals” category. After selecting it, this screen should load.
Note : Some of our grant proposal templates are free to use and some require a small monthly fee. Sign-up is always free, as is access to Venngage’s online drag-and-drop editor.
Look for the grant proposals subcategory in the proposals template page and select it.
Browse our selection of grant proposal templates. Once you find one you like, click on it to launch the editor tool.
Here, you’ll be able to add your own text, change the design, and customize the template as you like.
Some of your customization options include:
For example, let’s pretend I chose this grant proposal template to customize.
Let’s edit this together.
For example, I want to replace the logo to reflect my company. Well, just select it and click the “ Replace ” feature on the top left.
Once you click “ Replace “, a tab will open where you can select visuals from our library of icons. You can also upload an image (your logo).
By the way, our in-editor library has thousands of free, professional icons, plus diverse icons.
Now, let’s say I want to change the background color of some of my template.
That’s easy as well! Just select the text or background and select the “Replace” feature again. This time, you’ll be prompted with another pop-up where you can select a different color.
If you sign up for a Business Plan, you’ll also get access to My Brand Kit . With this, you can apply your brand colors to any design with one click.
When your grant proposal is complete, you can save it as a PDF or PNG file if you’re on a Business Plan.
However, all users will always have access to shareable link that they can send potential funders.
A well-structured grant proposal with appealing visuals can make a lasting impression on funders and tip the balance in your favor.
Don’t waste your time with tools like Word, Google Docs where you’ll get limited design flexibility and visuals that don’t engage.
Instead, head over to Venngage’s grant proposal templates to give yourself a winning edge.
How long is a grant proposal?
The length of a grant proposal depends on the funder but a typical grant proposal is usually between 5-20 pages. The funding body might request additional documents as well, so it’s important to know funding guidelines.
What is the writing style for a grant proposal?
The writing style for a grant proposal is formal. You want to be concise and objective, so focus on clarity, impact and your alignment with the priorities of the funder.
What is the lifecycle of a grant proposal?
The grant proposal lifecycle begins with research, planning and development, followed by drafting, revising and editing the narrative and budget. Applications are then submitted before funders review and make decisions. If successful, negotiations may occur to finalize details, after which the funded project is implemented according to the approved plan. Finally, progress and final reports are submitted to the funder. This cyclical process ensures accountability and project success.
What is the difference between a proposal and grant proposal?
Proposal is a broader term encompassing various applications for funding, resources, or partnerships whereas a grant proposal specifically refers to an application for grant funding from a foundation, government agency, or other organization.
What is the difference between a grant proposal and a grant letter?
A grant proposal is a detailed document that includes the project description, methodology, financial plan, and financing rationale. A grant letter, on the other hand, can be a more straightforward request or statement of interest.
Discover popular designs
Infographic maker
Brochure maker
White paper online
Newsletter creator
Flyer maker
Timeline maker
Letterhead maker
Mind map maker
Ebook maker
Writing and submitting a grant proposal is not a task enjoyed by most people. However, if you’re a researcher, writing a grant proposal is something that you will probably need to undertake many times. And that is why, questions like how to write a grant proposal for research are commonly asked in the field of academia.
Research grant proposals are critical for showcasing your work and convincing funders to back your research project. While obtaining grants brings prestige to the researcher and the institution, in some fields such as medicine, academic success depends on the number of grants and amount of funding received 1 . So, how can you write a persuasive research grant proposal that will impress funders and enable you to grow your career?
The importance of planning in research grant proposal writing, how to write a research grant proposal: detailed steps, frequently asked questions (faqs).
As with most major projects, the key to writing a successful research grant proposal is planning. This includes an effective plan for not only writing the grant but also a strong plan for the research itself. Planning is extremely important for writing a successful research grant proposal because your final submission needs to be a complete and consistent story of your proposed work. Imagine trying to draft a novel linearly from start to finish without knowing the ending beforehand. Writing a successful research grant proposal requires that you attend to every detail, which means you need a plan.
Remember, you are telling a story through your written grant application . Therefore, every part of the grant proposal must work together, with nothing extra to distract the reader. This requires detailed planning.
The core of a research grant proposal is the research plan. A poorly planned study will not impress the funders. In addition to clearly showing the reader what your proposed study will look like, you will also want to emphasize the positive impact the study results will have on the field and on society at large. Planning time will also need to be spent in identifying a suitable funding source and ensuring that their mission aligns with your research. The story you tell when writing your research grant proposal needs to be a story that interests them.
Remember to be confident and definitive when discussing the need for this study. It’s always a good idea to read and study successful samples of grant proposals from the organization to get an idea of what they want to see.
Write a convincing research proposal with Paperpal’s AI writing assistant
A research grant proposal is a comprehensive document that outlines your project or program, explains its significance, and requests funding. It typically includes sections such as an executive summary, introduction, project description, budget, and evaluation plan. On the other hand, a grant letter is a shorter document that serves as an initial contact with a potential funder. It is typically a letter of inquiry or a letter of intent that provides a brief overview of your project, highlights its relevance, and expresses your interest in seeking funding. A grant letter is often used to gauge the funder’s interest before submitting a full grant proposal.
The length of a grant proposal can vary depending on the specific guidelines provided by the funding organization. It is important to carefully review the application instructions or guidelines to determine the preferred length. In general, grant proposals can range from a few pages to several dozen pages. However, most funders specify a preferred page limit. Commonly, grant proposals may be around 10 to 20 pages, excluding supporting documents such as budgets, appendices, or letters of support. It’s essential to follow the funder’s guidelines regarding page limits and formatting requirements.
To make your grant proposal stand out, consider the following tips: a. Thoroughly research the funder: Understand the goals, priorities, and preferences of the funding organization. Tailor your proposal to align with their mission and objectives. b. Clearly articulate the problem or need: Clearly describe the issue your project aims to address and explain its significance. Provide compelling evidence and data to support your claims. c. Develop a well-structured and logical proposal: Organize your proposal into sections that flow logically, including an engaging executive summary, a detailed project plan, a realistic budget, and a comprehensive evaluation strategy. d. Highlight your project’s innovation and impact: Emphasize the unique aspects of your project or program. Demonstrate how it fills a gap in existing services or approaches. Clearly articulate the potential positive outcomes and impact your project will have. e. Provide evidence of your capabilities: Showcase your organization’s track record, expertise, and experience in successfully implementing similar projects. Highlight the qualifications of your team members and partnerships that strengthen your proposal. f. Write with clarity and conciseness: Use clear, concise, and persuasive language. Avoid jargon and technical terms that may confuse the reader. Ensure your proposal is well-organized and free from errors.
Yes, seeking feedback on your grant proposal before submission is highly recommended. Feedback from colleagues, mentors, or individuals with experience in grant writing can provide valuable insights and help improve the quality of your proposal. They can offer suggestions on clarity, organization, persuasiveness, and adherence to the funder’s guidelines. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas that may need further development or revision.
Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.
Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.
Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!
Duplicate publications: how to avoid overlapping publications in research, you may also like, how to write a research proposal: (with examples..., how to write your research paper in apa..., how to choose a dissertation topic, how to write a phd research proposal, how to write an academic paragraph (step-by-step guide), research funding basics: what should a grant proposal..., how to write an abstract in research papers..., how to write dissertation acknowledgements, how to structure an essay, what is the importance of a concept paper....
Are these real grants written by real students.
Yes! While each proposal represents a successfully funded application, there are two things to keep in mind: 1) The proposals below are final products; no student started out with a polished proposal. The proposal writing process requires stages of editing while a student formulates their project and works on best representing that project in writing. 2) The samples reflect a wide range of project types, but they are not exhaustive . URGs can be on any topic in any field, but all must make a successful argument for why their project should be done/can be done by the person proposing to do it. See our proposal writing guides for more advice. The best way to utilize these proposals is to pay attention to the proposal strengths and areas for improvement on each cover page to guide your reading.
When students first look through the database, they are usually compelled to read an example from their major (Therefore, we often hear complaints that there is not a sample proposal for every major). However, this is not the best approach because there can be many different kinds of methodologies within a single subject area, and similar research methods can be used across fields.
It does not matter whether the samples you read are summer grants (SURGs) or academic year grants (AYURGs). The main difference between the two grant types is that academic year proposals (AYURG) require a budget to explain how the $1,000 will be used towards research materials, while summer proposals (SURG) do not require a budget (the money is a living stipend that goes directly to the student awardee) and SURGs have a bigger project scope since they reflect a project that will take 8 weeks of full time research to complete. The overall format and style is the same across both grant cycles, so they are relevant examples for you to review, regardless of which grant cycle you are planning to apply.
Do not submit a first draft: These sample proposals went through multiple rounds of revisions with feedback from both Office of Undergraduate Research advisors and the student’s faculty mentor. First, it helps to learn about grant structure and proposal writing techniques before you get started. Then, when you begin drafting, it’s normal to make lots of changes as the grant evolves. You will learn a lot about your project during the editing and revision process, and you typically end up with a better project by working through several drafts of a proposal.
Work with an advisor: Students who work with an Office of Undergraduate Research Advisor have higher success rates than students who do not. We encourage students to meet with advisors well in advance of the deadline (and feel free to send us drafts of your proposal prior to our advising appointment, no matter how rough your draft is!), so we can help you polish and refine your proposal.
Review final proposal checklists prior to submission: the expectation is a two-page, single-spaced research grant proposal (1″ margins, Times New Roman 12 or Arial 11), and proposals that do not meet these formatting expectations will not be considered by the review committee. Your bibliography does not count towards this page limit.
Academic Year URG Submission Checklist
Summer URG Application Checklist
Research methodologies.
The proposed project involves collecting primary sources held in archives, a Special Collections library, or other repository. Archival sources might include manuscripts, documents, records, objects, sound and audiovisual materials, etc. If a student proposes a trip to collect such sources, the student should address a clear plan of what will be collected from which archives, and should address availability and access (ie these sources are not available online, and the student has permission to access the archive).
The proposed project involves developing models to numerically study the behavior of system(s), often through computer simulation. Students should specify what modeling tool they will be using (i.e., an off-the-shelf product, a lab-specific codebase), what experience they have with it, and what resources they have when they get stuck with the tool (especially if the advisor is not a modeler). Models often involve iterations of improvements, so much like a Design/Build project, the proposal should clearly define parameters for a “successful” model with indication of how the student will assess if the model meets these minimum qualifications.
The proposed project has a creative output such playwriting, play production, documentary, music composition, poetry, creative writing, or other art. Just like all other proposals, the project centers on an answerable question, and the student must show the question and method associated with the research and generation of that project. The artist also must justify their work and make an argument for why this art is needed and/or how it will add to important conversations .
The proposed project’s output centers around a final product or tool. The student clearly defines parameters for a “successful” project with indication of how they will assess if the product meets these minimum qualifications.
The project takes place in a lab or research group environment, though the methodology within the lab or research group vary widely by field. The project often fits within the larger goals/or project of the research group, but the proposal still has a clearly identified research question that the student is working independently to answer.
The project studies, evaluates, and interprets literature or composition. The methods are likely influenced by theory within the field of study. In the proposal, the student has clearly defined which pieces will be studied and will justify why these pieces were selected. Context will be given that provides a framework for how the pieces will be analyzed or interpreted.
The project proposes to analyze data from non-numeric information such as interview transcripts, notes, video and audio recordings, images, and text documents. The proposal clearly defines how the student will examine and interpret patterns and themes in the data and how this methodology will help to answer the defined research question.
The project proposes to analyze data from numeric sources. The proposal clearly defines variables to be compared and provides insight as to the kinds of statistical tests that will be used to evaluate the significance of the data.
The proposed project will collect data through survey(s). The proposal should clearly defined who will be asked to complete the survey, how these participants will be recruited, and/or proof of support from contacts. The proposal should include the survey(s) in an appendix. The proposal should articulate how the results from these survey(s) will be analyzed.
The proposed project will use theoretical frameworks within their proposed area of research to explain, predict, and/or challenge and extend existing knowledge. The conceptual framework serves as a lens through which the student will evaluate the research project and research question(s); it will likely contain a set of assumptions and concepts that form the basis of this lens.
Group project.
A group project is proposed by two or more students; these proposals receive one additional page for each additional student beyond the two page maximum. Group projects must clearly articulate the unique role of each student researcher. While the uploaded grant proposal is the same, each student researcher must submit their own application into the system for the review.
Projects may take place internationally. If the proposed country is not the student’s place of permanent residence, the student can additionally apply for funding to cover half the cost of an international plane ticket. Proposals with international travel should likely include travel itineraries and/or proof of support from in-country contacts in the appendix.
Projects may be conducted in a non-English language. If you have proficiency in the proposed language, you should include context (such as bilingual, heritage speaker, or by referencing coursework etc.) If you are not proficient and the project requires language proficiency, you should include a plan for translation or proof of contacts in the country who can support your research in English.
Subject Area | Methodology | Proposal Feature | Review Committee |
---|---|---|---|
(608.19 KB) | Fieldwork; Interviews; Quantitative Data Analysis | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
(668.31 KB) | Computational/Mathematical Modeling | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
(3.42 MB) | Creative output; Survey | Arts, Humanities & Performance | |
(473.84 KB) | Lab-based | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
(538.77 KB) | Lab-based | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
Lab-based | Natural Sciences & Engineering | ||
(506.62 KB) | Qualitative Data Analysis; Quantitative Data Analysis | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
Computational/Mathematical Modeling; Design/Build | Natural Sciences & Engineering | ||
(571.6 KB) | Design/Build; Survey | Group Project | Natural Sciences & Engineering |
Creative Output; Literary/Composition Analysis | Non-English Language Proficiency | Arts, Humanities & Performance | |
(666.04 KB) | Lab-based | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
(1.24 MB) | Surveys; Interviews; Fieldwork; Qualitative Data Analysis | International Travel | Social Sciences & Journalism |
(565.53 KB) | Interviews; Qualitative Data Analysis | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
Literary/Composition Analysis; Theory | Arts, Humanities & Performance | ||
(596.44 KB) | Literary Analysis | Arts, Humanities & Performance | |
(545.94 KB) | Lab-based | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
(1.84 MB) | Archival; Literary/Compositional Analysis | International Travel; Non-English Language Competency | Arts, Humanities & Performance |
Archival; Literary/Compositional Analysis | Social Sciences & Journalism | ||
Archival; Literary/Composition Analysis | Arts, Humanities & Performance | ||
Indigenous Methods; Creative Output; Interviews; Archival | Social Sciences & Journalism | ||
Journalistic Output, Creative Output, Interviews | Social Sciences & Journalism | ||
(1.1 MB) | Interviews; Creative Output; Journalistic Output | Group Project; International Travel; Non-English Language Proficiency | Social Sciences & Journalism |
(475.41 KB) | Archival | Arts, Humanities & Performance | |
(606.53 KB) | Theory | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
(830.19 KB) | Design/Build | Group Project | Natural Sciences & Engineering |
(822.21 KB) | Creative Output | Group Project; | Arts, Humanities & Performance |
(692.36 KB) | Literary/Compositional Analysis; Theory | Arts, Humanities & Performance | |
(1.17 MB) | Lab-based | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
(854.84 KB) | Literary/Composition Analysis; Theory | Arts, Humanities & Performance | |
(597.87 KB) | Fieldwork; Lab-based | Natural Sciences & Engineering | |
(549.81 KB) | Quantitative Analysis | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
(777.07 KB) | Survey; Quantitative Data Analysis | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
Creative Output | Arts, Humanities & Performance | ||
(933.69 KB) | Interviews; Fieldwork | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
(468.76 KB) | Fieldwork; Quantitative Data Analysis | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
(828.69 KB) | Design/Build; Quantitative Data Analysis; Lab-based | Social Sciences & Journalism | |
(555.08 KB) | Creative Output | Arts, Humanities & Performance |
Home » Research Proposal – Types, Template and Example
Table of Contents
Research proposal is a document that outlines a proposed research project . It is typically written by researchers, scholars, or students who intend to conduct research to address a specific research question or problem.
Research proposals can vary depending on the nature of the research project and the specific requirements of the funding agency, academic institution, or research program. Here are some common types of research proposals:
This is the most common type of research proposal, which is prepared by students, scholars, or researchers to seek approval and funding for an academic research project. It includes all the essential components mentioned earlier, such as the introduction, literature review , methodology , and expected outcomes.
A grant proposal is specifically designed to secure funding from external sources, such as government agencies, foundations, or private organizations. It typically includes additional sections, such as a detailed budget, project timeline, evaluation plan, and a description of the project’s alignment with the funding agency’s priorities and objectives.
Students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree often need to submit a proposal outlining their intended research for their dissertation or thesis. These proposals are usually more extensive and comprehensive, including an in-depth literature review, theoretical framework, research questions or hypotheses, and a detailed methodology.
This type of proposal is often prepared by researchers or research teams within an organization or institution. It outlines a specific research project that aims to address a particular problem, explore a specific area of interest, or provide insights for decision-making. Research project proposals may include sections on project management, collaboration, and dissemination of results.
Researchers or scholars applying for research fellowships may be required to submit a proposal outlining their proposed research project. These proposals often emphasize the novelty and significance of the research and its alignment with the goals and objectives of the fellowship program.
In cases where researchers from multiple institutions or disciplines collaborate on a research project, a collaborative research proposal is prepared. This proposal highlights the objectives, responsibilities, and contributions of each collaborator, as well as the overall research plan and coordination mechanisms.
A research proposal typically follows a standard outline that helps structure the document and ensure all essential components are included. While the specific headings and subheadings may vary slightly depending on the requirements of your institution or funding agency, the following outline provides a general structure for a research proposal:
———————————————————————————————–
Here’s an example of a research proposal to give you an idea of how it can be structured:
Title: The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Well-being: A Mixed-Methods Study
This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of social media on the well-being of adolescents. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data. The research objectives include examining the relationship between social media use and mental health, exploring the role of peer influence in shaping online behaviors, and identifying strategies for promoting healthy social media use among adolescents. The findings of this study will contribute to the understanding of the effects of social media on adolescent well-being and inform the development of targeted interventions.
1. Introduction
1.1 Background and Context:
Adolescents today are immersed in social media platforms, which have become integral to their daily lives. However, concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact of social media on their well-being, including increased rates of depression, anxiety, and body dissatisfaction. It is crucial to investigate this phenomenon further and understand the underlying mechanisms to develop effective strategies for promoting healthy social media use among adolescents.
1.2 Research Objectives:
The main objectives of this study are:
2. Literature Review
Extensive research has been conducted on the impact of social media on adolescents. Existing literature suggests that excessive social media use can contribute to negative outcomes, such as low self-esteem, cyberbullying, and addictive behaviors. However, some studies have also highlighted the positive aspects of social media, such as providing opportunities for self-expression and social support. This study will build upon this literature by incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to gain a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between social media and adolescent well-being.
3. Methodology
3.1 Research Design:
This study will adopt a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The quantitative phase will involve administering standardized questionnaires to a representative sample of adolescents to assess their social media use, mental health indicators, and perceived social support. The qualitative phase will include in-depth interviews with a subset of participants to explore their experiences, motivations, and perceptions related to social media use.
3.2 Data Collection Methods:
Quantitative data will be collected through an online survey distributed to schools in the target region. The survey will include validated scales to measure social media use, mental health outcomes, and perceived social support. Qualitative data will be collected through semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of participants. The interviews will be audio-recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis.
3.3 Data Analysis:
Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis to examine the relationships between variables. Qualitative data will be analyzed thematically to identify common themes and patterns within participants’ narratives. Integration of quantitative and qualitative findings will provide a comprehensive understanding of the research questions.
4. Timeline
The research project will be conducted over a period of 12 months, divided into specific phases, including literature review, study design, data collection, analysis, and report writing. A detailed timeline outlining the key milestones and activities is provided in Appendix A.
5. Expected Outcomes and Significance
This study aims to contribute to the existing literature on the impact of social media on adolescent well-being by employing a mixed-methods approach. The findings will inform the development of evidence-based interventions and guidelines to promote healthy social media use among adolescents. This research has the potential to benefit adolescents, parents, educators, and policymakers by providing insights into the complex relationship between social media and well-being and offering strategies for fostering positive online experiences.
6. Resources
The resources required for this research include access to a representative sample of adolescents, research assistants for data collection, statistical software for data analysis, and funding to cover survey administration and participant incentives. Ethical considerations will be taken into account, ensuring participant confidentiality and obtaining informed consent.
7. References
Writing a research proposal can be a complex task, but with proper guidance and organization, you can create a compelling and well-structured proposal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
The length of a research proposal can vary depending on the specific guidelines provided by your institution or funding agency. However, research proposals typically range from 1,500 to 3,000 words, excluding references and any additional supporting documents.
The purpose of a research proposal is to outline and communicate your research project to others, such as academic institutions, funding agencies, or potential collaborators. It serves several important purposes:
The research proposal holds significant importance in the research process. Here are some key reasons why research proposals are important:
The timing of when to write a research proposal can vary depending on the specific requirements and circumstances. However, here are a few common situations when it is appropriate to write a research proposal:
Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer
Table of Contents
The importance of a well-written research proposal cannot be underestimated. Your research really is only as good as your proposal. A poorly written, or poorly conceived research proposal will doom even an otherwise worthy project. On the other hand, a well-written, high-quality proposal will increase your chances for success.
In this article, we’ll outline the basics of writing an effective scientific research proposal, including the differences between research proposals, grants and cover letters. We’ll also touch on common mistakes made when submitting research proposals, as well as a simple example or template that you can follow.
The main purpose of a scientific research proposal is to convince your audience that your project is worthwhile, and that you have the expertise and wherewithal to complete it. The elements of an effective research proposal mirror those of the research process itself, which we’ll outline below. Essentially, the research proposal should include enough information for the reader to determine if your proposed study is worth pursuing.
It is not an uncommon misunderstanding to think that a research proposal and a cover letter are the same things. However, they are different. The main difference between a research proposal vs cover letter content is distinct. Whereas the research proposal summarizes the proposal for future research, the cover letter connects you to the research, and how you are the right person to complete the proposed research.
There is also sometimes confusion around a research proposal vs grant application. Whereas a research proposal is a statement of intent, related to answering a research question, a grant application is a specific request for funding to complete the research proposed. Of course, there are elements of overlap between the two documents; it’s the purpose of the document that defines one or the other.
Although there is no one way to write a scientific research proposal, there are specific guidelines. A lot depends on which journal you’re submitting your research proposal to, so you may need to follow their scientific research proposal template.
In general, however, there are fairly universal sections to every scientific research proposal. These include:
Remember, the best research proposal can be rejected if it’s not well written or is ill-conceived. The most common mistakes made include:
There are countless examples that you can find for successful research proposals. In addition, you can also find examples of unsuccessful research proposals. Search for successful research proposals in your field, and even for your target journal, to get a good idea on what specifically your audience may be looking for.
While there’s no one example that will show you everything you need to know, looking at a few will give you a good idea of what you need to include in your own research proposal. Talk, also, to colleagues in your field, especially if you are a student or a new researcher. We can often learn from the mistakes of others. The more prepared and knowledgeable you are prior to writing your research proposal, the more likely you are to succeed.
One of the top reasons scientific research proposals are rejected is due to poor logic and flow. Check out our Language Editing Services to ensure a great proposal , that’s clear and concise, and properly referenced. Check our video for more information, and get started today.
You may also like.
Input your search keywords and press Enter.
An official website of the United States government
The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.
The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.
Preview improvements coming to the PMC website in October 2024. Learn More or Try it out now .
Anita e. weidmann.
1 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Innsbruck University, Innsbruck, Austria
2 School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
3 Department of Social and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
4 Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
5 Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
6 Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
7 Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
8 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
9 University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
10 Department of Pharmacy, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
Considering a rejection rate of 80–90%, the preparation of a research grant is often considered a daunting task since it is resource intensive and there is no guarantee of success, even for seasoned researchers. This commentary provides a summary of the key points a researcher needs to consider when writing a research grant proposal, outlining: (1) how to conceptualise the research idea; (2) how to find the right funding call; (3) the importance of planning; (4) how to write; (5) what to write, and (6) key questions for reflection during preparation. It attempts to explain the difficulties associated with finding calls in clinical pharmacy and advanced pharmacy practice, and how to overcome them. The commentary aims to assist all pharmacy practice and health services research colleagues new to the grant application process, as well as experienced researchers striving to improve their grant review scores. The guidance in this paper is part of ESCP’s commitment to stimulate “ innovative and high-quality research in all areas of clinical pharmacy ”.
Writing research grants is a central part of any good quality research. Once a detailed research proposal has been submitted, it is subjected to an expert peer review process. Such reviews are designed to reach a funding decision, with feedback provided to improve the study for this and any future submissions. Depending on the length of the proposal, complexity of the research and experience of the research team, a proposal can take between six to twelve months to write [ 1 ]. Ample time must be given to the writing of hypothesis/research aim, budgeting, discussion with colleagues and several rounds of feedback [ 2 ]. The draft research proposal should always be completed well before the deadline to allow for last minute delays. An application which is not fully developed should not be submitted since it will most likely be rejected [ 3 ].
Despite the large effort that goes into each grant application, success rates are low. Application success rates for Horizon 2020 were < 15% [ 4 ] and < 20% for the National Institute of Health (NIH) [ 5 – 8 ]. With these statistics in mind, it is evident that often repeated submissions are required before securing funding. Due to a paucity of specific clinical pharmacy grant awarding bodies, writing a grant application for a clinical pharmacy or pharmacy practice research project often involves multidisciplinary collaborations with other healthcare professions and focus on a specific patient population or condition. There is no guarantee of success when trying to secure funding for research. Even the most seasoned researchers will have applications rejected. The key is to never give up. This commentary provides useful pointers for the planning and execution of grant writing.
Before writing a research grant proposal/application, consider what the research should achieve in the short, medium, and long term, and how the research goals will serve patients, science and society [ 9 , 10 ]. Practical implications of research, policy impact or positive impact on society and active patient/public involvement are highly valued by many research agencies as research should not be conducted “only for research”, serving the researchers’ interests. EU health policy and action strategies (CORDIS database) and other national strategies, such as national mental health strategy for grants within mental disorders, should be considered, as well as dissemination strategies, project deliverables, outcomes and lay public invitations to participate. The Science Community COMPASS has developed a useful “Message Box Tool” that can help in the identification of benefits and solutions, as well as the all-important “So What?” of the research [ 11 ]. Clearly determine what the lead researcher’s personal and professional strengths, expertise and past experiences are, and carefully select the research team to close these gaps [ 12 – 14 ].
When trying to identify the right type of grant according to the research ambitions, one should be mindful that several types of grants exist, including small project grants (for equipment, imaging costs), personal fellowships (for salary costs, sometimes including project costs), project grants (for a combination of salary and project costs), programme grants (for comprehensive project costs and salary for several staff members), start-up grants and travel grants [ 15 ]. Types of grants include EU grants (e.g. Horizon, Norway Grant), commercial grants (e.g. healthcare agencies and insurance companies), New Health Program grants ideal for new, reimbursed clinical pharmacy service projects and national grants (e.g. FWF (Austria), ARRS (Slovenia), NKFIH (Hungary), NCN (Poland), FWO (Belgium), HRZZ (Croatia), GAČR (Czech Republic), SNSF (Switzerland), SSF (Sweden). It is worth remembering that early career researchers, normally within ten years of finishing a PhD, have a particular sub-category within most grants.
Many national agencies only have one “Pharmacy” category. This results in clinical pharmacy and advanced clinical pharmacy practice projects competing with pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmaceutical biology and pharmacy technology submissions, thereby reducing the success rate as these research areas can often be very advanced in most EU countries compared to clinical and advanced pharmacy practice. A second possible submission category is “Public Health”. Several essential factors can impact the grant selection, such as research field, budget capacity, leading researcher’s experience and bilateral grants. Examples of successful clinical pharmacy funded research studies can be found in the published literature [ 16 – 20 ].
One key element of successful grant writing is the ability to plan and organise time. In order to develop a realistic work plan and achieve milestones, it is imperative to note deadlines and to be well-informed about the details of what is required. The development of a table or Gantt Chart that notes milestones, outcomes and deliverables is useful [ 21 ].
All funders are quite specific about what they will and will not fund. Research your potential funders well in advance. It is vital to pay attention to the aims, ambitions and guidelines of the grant awarding bodies and focus your proposal accordingly. Submitting an application which does not adhere to the guidelines may lead to very early rejection. It is helpful to prepare the grant application in such a way that the reviewers can easily find the information they are looking for [ 15 , 22 ]. This includes checking the reviewers’ reports and adding “bolded” sentences into the application to allow immediate emphasis. Reviewers’ reports are often available on the agencies’ websites. It is extremely useful to read previously submitted and funded or rejected proposals to further help in the identification of what is required in each application. Most funding agencies publish a funded project list, and the ‘Centre for Open Science (COS) Database of Funded Research’ enables tracking of funding histories from leading agencies around the world [ 23 ]. Another useful recommendation is to talk to colleagues who have been successful when applying to that particular funder. Funding agency grant officers can provide advice on the suitability of the proposal and the application process.
It is important to pay particular attention to deadlines for the grant proposal and ensure that sufficient time is allocated for completion of all parts of the application, particularly those that are not fully within one’s own control, for example, gathering any required signatures/approvals. Funders will generally not review an application submitted beyond the deadline.
Lastly, it is important to obtain insight into the decision process of grants. Research applications are sent to several reviewers, who are either volunteers or receive a small compensation to judge the application on previously determined criteria. While the judging criteria may vary from funder to funder, the key considerations are:
The key to good grant proposal writing is to be concise yet engaging. The use of colour and modern web-based tools such as #hashtags, webpage links, and links to YouTube presentations are becoming increasingly popular to improve the interest of a submission and facilitate a swift decision-making process. Ensure use of the exact section headings provided in the guidance, and use the keywords provided in the funding call documentation to reflect alignment with the funding bodies’ key interests. Attention to detail cannot be overstated; the quality and accuracy of the research proposal reflect the quality and accuracy of the research [ 24 ]. Try to adopt a clear, succinct, and simple writing style, making the grant easy to read. Having a clear focus can help to boost a grant to the top of a reviewer’s pile [ 25 , 26 ]. A clearly stated scientific question, hypothesis, and rationale are imperative. The reviewer should not have to work to understand the project [ 27 ]. Allow for plenty of time to incorporate feedback from trusted individuals with the appropriate expertise and consider having reviews for readability by non-experts.
Abstract, lay summary and background/rationale.
Take sufficient time to draft the scientific abstract and summary for the lay public. These should clearly state the long-term goal of the research, the aim and specific testable objectives, as well as the potential impact of the work. The research aim is a broad statement of research intent that sets out what the project hopes to achieve at the end. Research objectives are specific statements that define measurable outcomes of the project [ 28 , 29 ].
The lay summary is important for non-subject experts to quickly grasp the purpose and aims of the research. This is important in light of the increased emphasis on patient and public involvement in the design of the research. The abstract is often given little attention by the applicants, yet is essential. If reviewers have many applications to read, they may form a quick judgement when reading the abstract. The background should develop the argument for the study. It should flow and highlight the relevant literature and policy or society needs statements which support the argument, but at the same time must be balanced. It should focus on the need for the study at the local, national and international level, highlighting the knowledge gap the study addresses and what the proposed research adds. Ensure this section is well-referenced. The innovation section addresses the ‘‘So what?’’ question and should clearly explain how this research is important to develop an understanding in this field of practice and its potential impact. Will it change practice, or will it change the understanding of the disease process or its treatment? Will it generate new avenues for future scientific study? [ 30 ].
For the hypothesis, state the core idea of the grant in one or two sentences. It should be concise, and lead to testable specific aims. This section is fundamental; if it is unclear or poorly written, the reviewers may stop reading and reject the application. Do not attempt to make the aims overly complex. Well-written aims should be simply stated. Criteria such as PICO (population, intervention, comparison, outcomes) [ 31 ], and FINER (feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, relevant) [ 32 ], provide useful frameworks to help in writing aim(s), research question(s), objective(s) and hypotheses. Pay attention to the distinction between aim(s), research question(s), objective(s) and hypotheses. While it is tempting to want to claim that enormously complex problems can be solved in a single project, do not overreach. It is important to be realistic [ 25 ].
The methodology is one of the most important parts of getting a grant proposal accepted. The reviewing board should be convinced that the relevant methodology is well within the research teams’ expertise. Any evidence of potential success, such as preliminary results or pilot studies strengthen the application significantly [ 33 ]. The methodology must relate directly to the aim. Structuring this section into specific activities/ set of activities that address each research question or objective should be considered. This clarifies how each question/ objective will be addressed. Each work-package should clearly define the title of the research question/objective to be addressed, the activities to be carried out including milestones and deliverables, and the overall duration of the proposed work-package. Deliverables should be presented in table format for ease of review. Each subsequent work-package should start once the previous one has been completed to provide a clear picture of timelines, milestones and deliverables which reflect stakeholder involvement and overall organisation of the proposed project. Using relevant EQUATOR Network reporting guidelines enhances the quality of detail included in the design [ 34 ]. Key elements of this methodology are detailed in Table 1 .
Summary of the key elements of the experimental design, methods and expertise
Key elements of experimental design, methods and expertise | |
---|---|
Study design | State, justify and explain the study design and methodology. |
Setting | Where will the study be conducted? Explain and justify the setting. |
Target population | What is the study population? What are the inclusion and exclusion criteria? |
Sampling, sample size | Is sampling required? If so, what is the sampling approach and sample size needed? |
Recruitment | What is the approach for recruitment? |
Data collection | What is the plan for data collection? How are tools to be developed, tested and piloted? |
Outcome measures | What is going to be ‘measured’ (noting that the term ‘measure’ is different in qualitative studies)? The outcome measures should directly relate to the specific research questions/ objectives. |
Validity, reliability, trustworthiness | What steps are planned to maximise data validity and reliability (and possibly responsiveness) for quantitative studies and trustworthiness for qualitative studies? |
Analysis | What are the plans for analysis? The analysis plan must relate directly to the research question (s)/ objective (s). |
Monitoring | What are the milestones and key performance indicators for the study? Depending on the funding body and the nature of the study, a monitoring and oversight/ advisory committee may need to be established. |
Limitations, mitigation | What are the risks? What could go wrong? It is imperative to highlight these and plan mitigation measures. |
Expertise | The research team must have the appropriate level of experience and expertise from relevant disciplines to give the reviewers confidence that the study will be delivered as planned. It is not mandatory for all team members to be highly experienced, since developing research capacity is also important, however all team members should have defined roles. |
Patient and public engagement | Depending on the funding body it may be very important to thoroughly consider patient and public involvement in the study design, development of the research aim planning of the study design, written grant proposal and participation in the proposed study [ ]. Engaging the public in the research can improve the quality and impact of the research proposal [ ]. |
Ethics and governance | Details of ethics board approvals including to be obtained for the study are crucial as are details of all governance measures followed. |
The budget should be designed based on the needs of the project and the funding agency’s policies and instructions. Each aspect of the budget must be sufficiently justified to ensure accountability to the grant awarding body [ 35 ]. Costing and justification of the time of those involved, any equipment, consumables, travel, payment for participants, dissemination costs and other relevant costs are required. The funders will be looking for value for money and not necessarily a low-cost study. Ensure that the total budget is within the allocated funding frame.
Provide a breakdown of the key work packages and tasks to be completed, as well as an indication of the anticipated duration. Include a Gantt chart (A table detailing the most general project content milestones and activities) to demonstrate that all aspects of the proposal have been well thought through [ 21 ].
It is important to detail any strengths and limitations of the proposed project. Omitting these will present the reviewing board with sufficient grounds to reject the proposal [ 36 ]. Provide a clear statement about the short and long-term impact of the research [ 37 , 38 ]. The reviewers will pay particular attention to the differences the study can make and how potential impact aligns with the funding bodies goals as well as national policies. This statement is essential to make an informed decision whether or not to support the application. Useful diagrams summarise the different levels of impact [ 39 ].
Table 2 provides a summary of the key elements of project grants and key questions to ask oneself.
Summary of the key elements of project grants and key questions to ask oneself.
(Adapted from [ 5 ]: Koppelmann GH, Holloway JW. Successful grant writing. Paediatr Respir Rev. 2012; 13:63–66.)
Key questions to ask oneself | |
---|---|
What is the research question being addressed? How important, or how big is the identified knowledge gap? Why is this research project needed? What previous literature is available on this research topic? How innovative is the grant proposal compared to already published or ongoing research? What would the impact of the study results on healthcare, economics and society be? What research is being done by other groups? What type of methodological approach would be required in an ideal world to address this issue? What is needed to bring this research project to a wider audience? Does the researcher and team have all the relevant skills, techniques, and knowledge? Am I ready to be a principal investigator or should I be a co-investigator? |
Although the grant writing process is time-consuming and complex, support is widely available at each stage. It is important to involve colleagues and collaborators to improve the proposal as much as possible and invest time in the detailed planning and execution. Even if the grant is not awarded, do not be disheartened. Use the feedback for improvement and exercise resilience and persistence in pursuing your research ambition.
The guidance in this paper is part of ESCP’s commitment to stimulate “innovative and high-quality research in all areas of clinical pharmacy”. In a previous ESCP survey, it was found that few opportunities for collaboration (especially for grant applications) was one of the key barriers for members towards conducting research [ 40 ]. ESCP promotes networking, which is essential for multi-centre grant applications, both among ESCP members and with other organisations as it recognises the need for “multi-centre research in all areas of clinical pharmacy both within countries and between countries or differing healthcare delivery systems”. ESCP is planning to relaunch its own research grant which was paused during the pandemic, and it is also planning to provide ESCP members with information about the research grants offered by other organizations. ESCP is exploring partnering with other organisations to develop research proposals in areas of common interest and, in the near future, it will ask its members about their research priorities. Taken together, these initiatives will inform ESCP’s research strategy and help it to formulate policies to address the challenges its members face.
Research works of Assoc. Prof. Fialová were also supported by the institutional program Cooperation of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University.
Open access funding provided by University of Innsbruck and Medical University of Innsbruck. This work was conducted without external funding.
The authors have not disclosed any competing interests.
Publisher’s Note
Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.
5-tips-for-writing-a-successful-funding-application.
Helen Eassom, Copywriter, Wiley
January 27, 2022
How to Write a Research Grant Proposal
Most researchers in health and science come across grant proposals or applications at some point in their careers. In fact, many positions depend on them, whether they are doctoral students who require fellowships, postgraduates setting up relatively simple projects as they start employment, or more senior staff who need to have a steady stream of research projects. Although a significant amount of money is available from governmental bodies, charities and commercial organizations, there is a large pool of researchers, so competition can be very competitive. Developing a grant application can feel daunting at first, but with practice and good support, becomes easier with experience.
1. Get Visible – The Sooner, the Better!
It’s a good idea to start building up your profile within academia early on. Make use of all the resources available to you to showcase yourself, your research, and your achievements thus far. These include your page on your institution’s website, your personal website if you have one, and social media sites such as LinkedIn.
2. Collaboration Is Key
Try to build up your publication record as early as possible. This can obviously be tricky if you don’t have funding in the first place but think about collaborating with other academics who do have funding available to them. If you’re in the earlier stages of your career, you might consider applying for funding as a junior co-investigator with more senior academics. You might also want to think about making connections via social media, or through research networks, to establish relationships with potential collaborators.
3. Think Carefully About the Content
Your application will need to address some basics:
You’ll need to provide a clear justification for all costs, so think carefully about the time and resources needed to complete the research successfully within the specified period. Make sure you also devote enough space in your application to describing the research that you intend to carry out as well as the research design and methods that you will use.
If you’re unsure about what to include in your proposal, ask advice from senior or more experienced colleagues.
4. Review, Review, Review.
Make sure you leave plenty of time to review your application before submitting it. Begin drafting your application as soon as possible – don’t leave it until just before the deadline!
The more people you can get to review your draft application, the better, especially those from outside your specific area of research. Remember that most members of funding panels will have their own areas of subject expertise, so you’ll want to write your application so that it can be understood by a broader audience. Keep your language clear, simple, and free of any jargon.
Don’t forget to check your spelling, punctuation, and grammar – you may have written a brilliant application but if it’s full of spelling errors or grammatical mistakes it’s likely to be rejected.
5. Don’t give up!
Many good funding applications get rejected for a myriad of reasons, so don’t be discouraged by your first (or fifth) rejection. You do need to be in it to win it. Make sure that you address any feedback received and refine your proposal accordingly ready to try again.
Please enter your Email Address
Please enter valid email address
Please Enter your First Name
Please enter your Last Name
Please enter your Questions or Comments.
Please enter the Privacy
Please enter the Terms & Conditions
Related articles.
User Experience (UX) Research is the process of discovering and understanding user requirements, motivations, and behaviours
Learn how Wiley partners with plagiarism detection services to support academic integrity around the world
Medical student Nicole Foley shares her top tips for writing and getting your work published.
Wiley and Lumina are working together to support the efforts of researchers at Harvard Medical School to develop and test new machine learning tools and artificial intelligence (AI) software that can
Learn more about our relationship with a company that helps scientists identify the right products to use in their research
What is ISBN? ISSN? DOI? Learn about some of the unique identifiers for book and journal content.
Learn how medical practitioners can easily access and search visual assets from our article portfolio
Explore free-to-use services that can help you discover new content
Watch this webinar to help you learn how to get published.
Atypon launches Scitrus, a personalized web app that allows users to create a customized feed of the latest research.
FOR INDIVIDUALS
FOR INSTITUTIONS & BUSINESSES
WILEY NETWORK
ABOUT WILEY
Corporate Responsibility
Corporate Governance
Leadership Team
Cookie Preferences
Copyright @ 2000-2024 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., or related companies. All rights reserved, including rights for text and data mining and training of artificial technologies or similar technologies.
Rights & Permissions
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
You’re passionate about your research. Your work is crucial for scientific discovery and deserves to be carried out. We know that, and we love what you’re doing. So why can it be so challenging for academic researchers to obtain research funding? At Nicoya, we speak with researchers all over the world. We hear the same story about an amazing research project that can’t get funded. A worthy research proposal might not even get read by a reviewer if it lacks key elements stated in the grant requirements. Or, a well-structured grant proposal can fall short if the project isn’t a good fit for the grant that it was submitted to.
At Nicoya, we aim to improve human life by helping scientists succeed. We’re here to help you write a successful grant proposal to bring your next big idea to life. From grant prospecting to grant submission, we did our research to provide insight on each stage of the grant writing process. Let’s start at the beginning and choose the right grant for your project!
If you’ve looked for academic funding before, you know that there is an alarming amount of publicly funded grants available. This overwhelming process is a lot easier when you know what you’re looking for. Before diving into open grants, take some time to identify the needs and focus of your research:
What will your research accomplish? Who directly benefits from the outcome of your research? This might sound like an obvious tip, but having a clear picture of the significance of your research will make it much easier to filter by the right research area. Choosing an appropriate audience from the beginning will also significantly increase your chances of success.
What are your credentials? If you’re a newer researcher, there are funding opportunities specifically tailored for you! These grants usually come with smaller budgets and timelines to help you get started. Alternatively, if you are a distinguished professor, you likely have a full team to support and a long project to carry out. This means that you will need a more competitive grant that offers significant funding and multiple years of support. Luckily, your previous experiences have set the stage for you to take on a larger project. Think about what size of budget and timeline fits well with your current career stage to help you be more selective of different grants.
So where should you look? If you’re based in the United States, here are some great places to start:
If you are based in Canada, check out the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) . NSERC is the major funding source in Canada for natural science researchers – students and professors alike.
Now that you have selected some grants that fit your research and needs, it’s time to start working on the application. The next thing you should do – and I cannot stress this enough – is read through the grant application guidelines ( Grants.gov). These guidelines will cover the elements required in your proposal, the questions that the reviewers want answered, and how the application should be structured. We’ve summarized some tips for the most common elements of a proposal in a format that you can keep handy for later:
These are just some of the elements that are normally required in a grant application. Each grant application will have its required elements and structure, so follow your grant guidelines meticulously.
Congratulations! You now have a draft of your proposal completed. Stretch your legs, grab a cup of coffee and settle in as we highlight a few more tips to increase the chances of getting your project funded substantially.
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. While quality is better than quantity, applying for multiple grants will give you more opportunities to get funded. Since these proposals are incredibly time-consuming, write a general grant application for your project and then tailor it to each funding body.
Know your audience . It doesn’t matter how impactful your research is if it isn’t a good fit for the funding agency you’re applying to. The goals of your research should always circle back to the overall theme of the grant. This may require some rewording of your research outcomes to align better with the views of the funding agency. Check out our tips on publication writing for more advice on writing for your audience.
Use innovative techniques. As technology advances, so should your research techniques. For instance, using SPR to measure quantitative binding kinetics for your bio-molecular interactions will give you a huge advantage against your competitors. Since the OpenSPR is affordable and easy-to-use, we’ve had many researchers use the OpenSPR as leverage to get their grants approved. Check out The Power of OpenSPR below to see how easily SPR can be included in your proposal.
Review, review, review. Plenty of eyes should see your research funding proposal before the reviewers do. Consider getting your work reviewed by experts and non-experts in your field. It is also recommended to have a writing expert review your work for structure and style. If you let your proposal sit for a week and then pick it up again, you will be able to catch more mistakes with fresh eyes.
Read your grant requirements. Have we mentioned this already? A funding agency’s first screening of your proposal will be to see if you have followed their instructions. Just sticking to their guidelines will significantly increase your chances of success (Grants.gov; The Writing Center, UNC).
With the finishing touches added to your award-winning grant proposal, we wanted to leave you with some closing thoughts on the difference SPR will make in your research. More and more reviewers (funding agencies and academic journals alike) are asking for quantitative binding kinetics data over simple yes/no binding confirmation for biomolecular interactions. SPR is a label-free technique that gets you this data in real-time and has never been more accessible with the OpenSPR . Your reviewers are going to love that you’ve chosen an instrument that provides the same quality of data of instruments over ten times its cost.
Let us help you take your grant proposal to the next level.
Accelerate your drug discovery with Alto.
" * " indicates required fields
Rising investigators in spr, detecting emerging viral variants, laboratory automation, navigating the post-covid research landscape, covid-19 diagnostics using spr, binding techniques, enter the nicosystem, publish faster with binding kinetics & affinity data.
Over 600 researchers worldwide are using OpenSPR™ to get the data reviewers are looking for. Read our brochure to learn more!
Interested in learning more about how Alto can accelerate your drug discovery? Fill out the form below to download a product brochure.
13+ sample research funding proposal, what is a research funding proposal, different types of research funding proposal, basic components of a research funding proposal , how to write a research funding proposal, what are some examples of a research funding proposal, what are the fundamental elements of a research funding proposal, what are the major types of research or grant funding, how to approach major donors for funding.
1. faculty scholarship and research funding opportunity grant proposal, 2. electronic research administration funding proposal, 3. research funding proposal from scholar activities committee, 4. research proposal for external funding, step 1: develop an engaging cover page , step 2: state the issue, goals, objectives and desired outcomes, step 3: present the research activities and plans, step 4: explain the sustainability, budget and other components of the research project, step 5: prepare the final draft, share this post on your network, you may also like these articles, title project proposal.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essentials of crafting an effective Title Project Proposal. Whether you're applying for a grant, pitching a new project, or seeking approval…
Navigating the intricate world of construction demands a seasoned company with a proven track record. Our comprehensive guide on the Construction Company Proposal is your blueprint to understanding the…
Internal funding opportunities.
2024-2025 Research Instrumentation Fund (RIF)
Deadline: 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, January 9th, 2025. Applications for the RIF program will be due on the second Thursday of January each year starting FY25.
Click here to apply!
The Research Instrumentation Fund (RIF) provides support to faculty and core facilities necessary research instrumentation purchases and upgrades/replacements. Research instrumentation purchased with RIF funds is meant to be shared as broadly as possible and must be used to facilitate externally funded research and scholarship. RIF only awards research instrumentation requests that fall into one of the below categories:
Funding decisions are based on merit of the proposal, demonstrated need, impact of the equipment on the U of U research community, likelihood that equipment purchase will be leveraged to secure extramural funding, and availability of funds.
Applications for the 2024-2025 RIF cycle are due by 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, January 9th, 2025. Interested applicants should thoroughly review all FY25 RIF Guidelines before preparing an application. Questions about this program should be directed to Whitney MacKay .
Faculty Small Grant Program (FSGP) – FY25 Cycle
Deadline: 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, December 5th, 2024. Beginning FY25, the FSGP will conduct one cycle per fiscal year. This is to maximize available funding for the program and provide potential applicants with substantial time to prepare their application. Also starting in FY25, applications for the FSGP will be due the first Thursday in December each year.
The Faculty Small Grant Program (FSGP) provides grants of up to $10,000 over 1 year to support scholarly publications and creative research. Scholarly activity is defined as a work of scholarship that is peer reviewed and publicly disseminated. Examples of scholarly activity should demonstrate discovery and/or integration of new knowledge, technologies, methods, or materials. Creative research activity is defined as original contributions to an investigator’s field of study that are produced through writing, creating, composing, designing, recording, performing, curating, etc.
New for FY25: The Faculty Small Grant Program will have a tiered funding option. Total budget requested must align with one of the following tiers:
Applications for the 2024-2025 cycle are due by 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, December 5 th , 2024. Interested applicants should thoroughly review all FY25 FSGP Guidelines before preparing an application. Questions about this program should be directed to Whitney MacKay .
2024-2025 Distinguished Research Award (DRA)
Deadline: 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, December 12 th , 2024. Beginning FY25, DRA nominations will be due the second Thursday of December, annually. Nominations must be submitted using InfoReady. Late nominations will not be accepted.
The Distinguished Research Award (DRA) is a prestigious faculty award designed to recognize outstanding achievements in research by three University of Utah faculty each year. This prestigious research award provides the faculty member with a $10,000 grant to pursue research and/or creative pursuits and recognition at the UofU Commencement. Nominees are evaluated on the impact and significance of their career research or scholarly work to their field, as well as to the improvement and enrichment of the human condition. Faculty who have held an appointment with the University of Utah for a minimum of five years are eligible to receive this award. Nominations may be made by any faculty member, department, or college within the University.
Nominations for the 2024-2025 cycle are due by 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, December 12 th , 2024, and must be submitted using this submission link . Please thoroughly review all FY25 DRA Guidelines before preparing a nomination. Questions about this program should be directed to Whitney MacKay .
2024-2025 Faculty Fellow Awards (FFA)
Deadline: 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024.
The Faculty Fellow Awards (FFA) provide awarded faculty members one semester of full release time (from teaching and administrative tasks) at full salary for scholarly and creative projects. Scholarly activity is defined as a work of scholarship that is peer reviewed and publicly disseminated. Examples of scholarly activity should demonstrate discovery and/or integration of new knowledge, technologies, methods, or materials. Creative research activity is defined as original contributions to an investigator’s field of study that are produced through writing, creating, composing, designing, recording, performing, curating, etc. Departments of awarded faculty will receive up to $15,000 to defer the cost of the awardee’s release time.
The semester of leave must take place in the next academic year. Individuals applying to the 2024-2025 cycle would apply for Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 as their requested semester of leave.
The FFA program accepts applications once per year. The FFA application process is two steps:
Interested applicants should thoroughly review all FY25 FFA Guidelines before preparing an application. Questions about this program should be directed to Whitney MacKay .
Indiana University Indiana University IU
About this opportunity.
Indianapolis
Alicia Gahimer, algahime@iupui.edu
March 31, 2023
Funding available:.
The IAHI Summer Academy Fellows program supports Indianapolis researchers who wish to participate in the IAHI Summer Academy, an intensive and immersive program focused on aiding scholars in accelerating sustainable major interdisciplinary, collaborative projects that integrate arts, humanities, or qualitative social science approaches into their core research agenda. Summer Academy Fellows participate in a full-time, three-week academy that provides them the time, space, and support to advance promising research and creative activity at Indianapolis. For the 2023 Summer Academy, the IAHI will help fellows conceptualize and produce a major external grant proposal or project over a three-week time frame. Dates for the Summer Academy will be scheduled to align with the availability of academy fellows.
The Summer Academy fellowship emphasizes the importance of collaborative, interdisciplinary work. Because of this, we encourage fellows to participate as a team of two or more individuals from different disciplines. However, we will accept applications from individual scholars as well. We also encourage faculty to propose research projects that support undergraduate and/or graduate research opportunities. Recipients of the 2023 Summer Academy Fellowship will be chosen based on 1) a high potential for external funding, 2) their capacity to generate high quality research or creative projects that result in nationally or internationally recognized research outputs.
Eligible pis.
Proposal requirements.
Apply to this program through the InfoReady portal. Download the Guidelines and Application form. Applications are to be submitted as one pdf file. Competitions close at 11:59pm on the deadline date. Apply for IAHI Summer Academy Fellows Grant
Fast-Track proposals will be accepted.
Direct-to-Phase II proposals will NOT be accepted.
Number of anticipated awards: 2-4
Budget (total costs, per award):
Phase I: up to $400,000 for up to 12 months
Phase II: up to $2,250,000 for up to 2 years
Synthetic, advanced biomaterials encompass a diverse range of materials, biological components, and applications that are poised to transform cancer research through precise 3D tumor models and microenvironment simulations and could lead to developments that reduce treatment side effects and improve cancer patient outcomes. These sophisticated models can accelerate drug development, by allowing researchers to predict how drugs might work in the human body more accurately. Traditional biomaterials (e.g., scaffolds and hydrogels) are generally static in morphology, and animal-derived products can induce inflammatory responses, and often degrade at unpredictable and uncontrolled rates. Traditional biomaterials sourced from tumors have inter- and intra- batch variability, quick gelation times, and requires careful handling for mechanical property modifications. Growth factor content can also stimulate confounding signaling cascades making it difficult for use in mechanistic cancer studies. Improved integration of existing biomaterials with advanced synthetic biomaterials (e.g. acrylates, collagen, hyaluronic acid, polyethylene glycol, tumor-sourced extracellular cellular matrix, alginate, chitosan, etc.) with cutting-edge sensors, AI, microfluidics, 3D/4D bioprinting, and other biomaterials may also open new avenues for research. Additionally, advances in biomaterials have the potential to address key issues like reproducibility (i.e. reduced batch-to-batch variability), bioactivity (e.g. active motifs promoting cell adhesion), mechanical properties (e.g. stiffness, strain, cross-linking, and plasticity), and biocompatibility. These tunable mechanics are possible through novel approaches that integrate photomediated, enzymatic, and polymerization-based chemistries. Successful commercialization of such biomaterials could enable broader access to advanced biomaterial-based cancer models and propel cancer biology research.
The short-term goal of this topic is to support the development and commercialization of versatile and accessible set of biomaterial-based tools (kits and reagents), and services for improved biomaterial-based cancer models to enable more rigorous and reproducible cancer research (basic and preclinical). The mid-term goal is providing the research community improved in vitro models to complement or replace in vivo models for regulatory use and the long-term goal to integrate biomaterials into personalized cancer models capable of improving treatment strategies for patients. Specific activities responsive to this solicitation topic should fall into one of the following three areas: 1) kits and reagents that are user-friendly (no specific skills or non- standard/expensive lab equipment required); 2) biomaterials allowing researchers (if kits and reagents) or the small business (if services) to program or tune the biomaterial for specific cancer applications: 3) biomaterials with the capacity to change or adapt in response to tumor initiation, progression, or metastasis (e.g., adaptable response to tumor, changes in stiffness, strain or crosslinking, local heat sensitive responses) to probe the mechanisms of cancer biology or for passive diagnostic readout (e.g. fluorescence, pH change, temperature fluctuations, imaging readout of polymer alignment).
Projects considered responsive to this solicitation include, but are not limited to: biomaterials that enable the culture of cancer cells that are difficult or can’t currently be cultured, or the long-term culture and manipulation of cancer tissue or organoids that are free from xenogeneic contaminants and are chemically defined, biomaterial that mimic aspects of the immune system (e.g., neutrophils, immunomodulatory molecules or tertiary lymphoid structures), or biomaterials that enable dynamic remodeling of the tumor or its microenvironment.
Activities not responsive to announcement: Materials that are not biocompatible and/or do not modulate or mimic the environment or tissue in a cancer-relevant manner will not be considered responsive (i.e. biomaterials that don’t allow the study of cancer (tumor, microenvironment, or hostresponse, drug efficacy or toxicity); biomaterials intended solely for drug delivery or therapeutic use (e.g. microneedles, nanovesicles, etc.); biomaterials used in static phantoms intended solely for advancing imaging capabilities; technologies not directly applicable to cancer; services not applicable to cancer.
Develop an advanced biomaterial prototype or suite of biomaterial-based services with a cancer biological context and/or application:
Receipt date: Friday, October 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m. ET
Apply for this topic on the Contract Proposal Submission (eCPS) website .
View the full PHS2025-1 Contract Solicitation .
COMMENTS
This handout will help you write and revise grant proposals for research funding in all academic disciplines (sciences, social sciences, humanities, and the arts). ... application is a document or set of documents that is submitted to an organization with the explicit intent of securing funding for a research project. Grant writing varies ...
Research proposal length. The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor's or master's thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.
When writing a grant proposal, there are five main criteria that you need to consider. These are: Significance. Approach. Innovation. Investigators. Environment. The funding body will look for these criteria throughout your statement, so it's important to tailor what you say and how you say it accordingly. 1.
Consider each of the following. 1. Plan your time and expenses. Applying for grants means setting aside time to search for the right grants, writing proposals, and going through the grant selection process. Plan for this time as well as any associated costs, such as for research and professional writing help. 2.
for their projects. A well-dra ed proposal can con vince funding agencies about scienti c, commercial. and social impact of the research project and also researcher' s competence and skill ...
Give a clear and concise account of your identity, funding needs, and project roadmap. Write in an instructive manner aiming for an objective and persuasive tone. Be convincing and pragmatic about your research team's ability. Follow the logical flow of main points in your proposal.
Step 2: Plan and research your project. Preliminary research for your grant proposal. Questions to ask yourself as you plan your grant proposal. Developing your grant proposal. Step 3: Write the first draft of your grant proposal. Step 4: Get feedback, and revise your grant proposal accordingly.
Grant Proposal. Grant Proposal is a written document that outlines a request for funding from a grant-making organization, such as a government agency, foundation, or private donor. The purpose of a grant proposal is to present a compelling case for why an individual, organization, or project deserves financial support.
Here are some extra tips to help you write a grant proposal that stands out. Start early. Apply early and often. Get feedback and revise your proposal accordingly. Be brief, concise and clear. Be organized and logical. Be explicit and specific. Be realistic in designing the project. Follow up after the proposal.
Purpose of A Proposal. To show you have a worthwhile research project to undertake. To demonstrate that YOU have the competence to complete it. To discuss all relevant aspects of the research process. To enable others to evaluate whether enough information exists to want to support the proposed study. As a supervisor (e.g. a thesis)
Research the funder and topic: Once you have identified a suitable funder, spend a lot of time on their website. Read about their mission and history, and find out what they have been funding recently. Examine the Call for Proposals very carefully. Consider calling the program officer for the grant of interest 4.
The project takes place in a lab or research group environment, though the methodology within the lab or research group vary widely by field. The project often fits within the larger goals/or project of the research group, but the proposal still has a clearly identified research question that the student is working independently to answer.
A research proposal is commonly written by scholars seeking grant funding for a research project when enrolling for a research-based postgraduate degree. Graduate and post-graduate students also embark on a university dissertation to obtain a degree or get that Ph.D. Although it is just a course assignment, a student must treat the introduction ...
Research Proposal Format. The format of a research proposal may vary depending on the specific requirements of the institution or funding agency. However, the following is a commonly used format for a research proposal: 1. Title Page: Include the title of your research proposal, your name, your affiliation or institution, and the date. 2. Abstract:
Academic Research Proposal. This is the most common type of research proposal, which is prepared by students, scholars, or researchers to seek approval and funding for an academic research project. It includes all the essential components mentioned earlier, such as the introduction, literature review, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Whereas a research proposal is a statement of intent, related to answering a research question, a grant application is a specific request for funding to complete the research proposed. Of course, there are elements of overlap between the two documents; it's the purpose of the document that defines one or the other.
Writing a Funding Proposal Toolkit by Janet Shapiro (email: [email protected] ) - - 1 - - OVERVIEW Brief description This toolkit deals with planning and researching a funding proposal before you write it; how to write the proposal; and the follow-up required once it is written and sent off. There is also an example of a funding proposal to ...
This book is a guide to writing scientific research proposals for sub-mission to funding agencies. It approaches the topic by placing it in the larger context of planning and carrying out a research project, of-fering guidance on selecting a suitable research topic, organizing and planning the project, identifying a funding agency, writing the ...
The draft research proposal should always be completed well before the deadline to allow for last minute delays. ... Most funding agencies publish a funded project list, and the 'Centre for Open Science (COS) Database of Funded Research' enables tracking of funding histories from leading agencies around the world . Another useful ...
Developing a grant application can feel daunting at first, but with practice and good support, becomes easier with experience. 1. Get Visible - The Sooner, the Better! It's a good idea to start building up your profile within academia early on. Make use of all the resources available to you to showcase yourself, your research, and your ...
Introduce your research group, highlight the significance of your project, and state the budget you are requesting. These are just some of the elements that are normally required in a grant application. Each grant application will have its required elements and structure, so follow your grant guidelines meticulously.
Define the title of the research funding project. Then, write your full name as the applicant or if it is a student-submitted proposal, provide the email address, phone number and faculty or staff mentor name. Indicate the number of students to be involved in the research and their names. Specify the start and stop dates of the project.
of that project, event, or activity. * This proposal is to request funding in order for me to meet with the co-author of my Business Research Methods textbook. We are in the 3rd edition of the text, and since the inception of our co-authored joint venture publication, we have worked collaboratively as a "virtual team". We
Understanding the priorities and interests of the funding body is crucial. Tailor your proposal to resonate with their goals by thoroughly researching their mission statement and funded projects.
Applications will be accepted via the online portal listed in the How to Submit section. Project Proposals/Protocols should be single-spaced using Calibri 12-point font and 1-inch margins. Note there is a 15-page limit exclusive of references. When uploading your Full Proposal please ensure it addresses the following sections: Goals and Objectives
the research for ICTR CEnR Pilot Grant funding. Any new collaborations or highly innovative aspects should be succinctly noted. Relevance to the translational nature of the CEnR program should also be indicated. • Project Milestones and Timeline: Submissions must include a timeline of one or more
Funding decisions are based on merit of the proposal, demonstrated need, impact of the equipment on the U of U research community, likelihood that equipment purchase will be leveraged to secure extramural funding, and availability of funds. Applications for the 2024-2025 RIF cycle are due by 11:59pm (MST) on Thursday, January 9th, 2025.
As funding is one of the key pillars of research activity, identifying the factors that impact the evaluation results in research funding competitions remains challenging, due to the heterogeneity of funding instruments. In this context, our study aims to identify the elements that ensure the application's success, comparing two perspectives: one of the applicant and the other based on the ...
We also encourage faculty to propose research projects that support undergraduate and/or graduate research opportunities. Recipients of the 2023 Summer Academy Fellowship will be chosen based on 1) a high potential for external funding, 2) their capacity to generate high quality research or creative projects that result in nationally or ...
proposals that exceed the budget or project duration listed above may not be funded. Summary Synthetic, advanced biomaterials encompass a diverse range of materials, biological components, and applications that are poised to transform cancer research through precise 3D tumor models and microenvironment simulations and could lead to developments ...