research grant proposal example pdf

Research Proposal Example/Sample

In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.

• Research proposal example/sample – Master’s-level (PDF/Word)
• Research proposal example/sample – PhD-level (PDF/Word)
• Proposal template (Fully editable) 

If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:

• Research Proposal Bootcamp : Learn how to write a research proposal as efficiently and effectively as possible
• 1:1 Proposal Coaching : Get hands-on help with your research proposal

FAQ: Research Proposal Example

Research proposal example: frequently asked questions, are the sample proposals real.

Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.

Can I copy one of these proposals for my own research?

As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.

You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .

How do I get the research proposal template?

You can access our free proposal template here .

Is the proposal template really free?

Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.

Where can I learn more about proposal writing?

For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.

For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.

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Planning and Writing a Grant Proposal: The Basics

Grant Proposal Writing is Exciting, Imaginative Work

Download this Handout PDF

Overview Additional Resources about Grants and Grant Writing Considering the Audience, Purpose, and Expectations of a Grant Proposal Common Elements of Grant Proposals General Tips Successful Sample Proposals

So, you want to write a grant proposal? This is exciting! This means that you have valuable research to do or a particular nonprofit to build or a community resource you’re passionate about developing. You have a distinct vision for how something could be improved or advanced, and you’re ready to ask for funding or other support to help this vision become a reality.

As you reach toward this unrealized vision by developing a grant proposal, you should think about successful grant writing as an act of imagination. Professor Kate Vieira, a Curriculum and Instruction professor at UW-Madison with considerable grant writing experience, describes grant proposal writing as a creative process akin to fiction writing—these are works of imagination. Professor Vieira recommends approaching the task of writing a grant proposal with an attitude of wonder and excitement as you strive to turn your ideas into something real. You have a great idea, and you think that you’re the best person to achieve a specific goal. Now you just need to convince others to get excited about this vision as well.

On this page, we offer some ways of thinking about grant proposals and advice about the process of planning and writing a proposal. We consider grant proposals; overall purposes, audiences, and expectations in order to make this information applicable across a range of contexts. However, this general approach has important limits . First, you will need to get more tailored advice about grant writing within your specific discipline or sphere. Second, you’ll need to follow very carefully the exact instructions about proposals from the granting agencies to which you are applying.

Talk with professors, mentors, previous grant recipients, the funding agency/group you are applying to, and trusted advisers in your field to learn more about what successful grant proposals look like in your situation and to get feedback on your plan and on your drafting process.

Before you start writing your grant proposal, you’ll want to make sure that you:

• develop a specific, meaningful, actionable plan for what you want to do and why you want to do it;
• consider how your plan will achieve positive results;
• locate a granting organization or source that funds projects like the one you have in mind;
• research that organization to make sure that its mission aligns with your plan;
• review the organization’s proposal guidelines; and
• examine sample proposals from your department, peers, and/or the organization.

When you’ve done all of this, you’re ready to start drafting your proposal!

Additional Resources about Grants and Grant Writing

For students, faculty, or staff at UW–Madison, a great place to learn more about grants, grant proposal writing, and granting institutions is the Grants Information Collection at UW–Madison’s Memorial Library. Check out their website and our review of some of their materials as well as links to other useful grant resources here.

Considering the Audience, Purpose, and Expectations of a Grant Proposal

A grant proposal is a very clear, direct document written to a particular organization or funding agency with the purpose of persuading the reviewers to provide you with support because: (1) you have an important and fully considered plan to advance a valuable cause, and (2) you are responsible and capable of realizing that plan.

As you begin planning and drafting your grant proposal, ask yourself:

• Who is your audience? Think about the people from the agency offering this grant who will read this proposal. What are the agency’s mission and goals? What are its values? How is what you want to do aligned with what this agency is all about? How much do these readers know about what you are interested in? Let your answers to these questions inform how you present your plan, what vocabulary you use, how much background you provide, and how you frame your goals. In considering your audience, you should think about the kind of information these readers will find to be the most persuasive. Is it numbers? If so, make sure that you provide and explain your data. Is it testimonials? Recommendations from other collaborators? Historical precedent? Think closely about how you construct your argument in relationship to your readers.
• What are the particular expectations for this grant? Pay attention to everything the granting organization requires of you. Your proposal should adhere exactly to these requirements. If you receive any advice that contradicts the expectations of your particular situation ( including from this website ), ignore it! Study representative samples of successful proposals in your field or proposals that have received the particular grant you are applying for.
• How do you establish your credibility? Make sure that you present yourself as capable, knowledgeable, and forward thinking. Establish your credibility through the thoroughness of your plan, the intentional way that you present its importance and value, and the knowledge you have of what has already been learned or studied. Appropriately reference any past accomplishments that verify your ability to succeed and your commitment to this project. Outline any partnerships you have built with complementary organizations and individuals.
• How can you clearly and logically present your plan? Make sure that your organization is logical. Divide your proposal into predictable sections and label them with clear headings. Follow exactly the headings and content requirements established by the granting agency’s call for proposals.Grant proposals are direct and to–the–point. This isn’t a good place for you to embroider your prose with flowery metaphors or weave in subtle literary allusions. Your language should be uncluttered and concise. Match the concepts and language your readers use and are familiar with. Your readers shouldn’t have to work hard to understand what you are communicating. For information about writing clear sentences, see this section of our writer’s handbook. However, use a vivid image, compelling anecdote, or memorable phrase if it conveys the urgency or importance of what you are proposing to do.

Common Elements of Grant Proposals

General Tips

Pay attention to the agency’s key interests..

As mentioned earlier, if there are keywords in the call for proposals—or in the funding organization’s mission or goal—be sure to use some of those terms throughout your proposal. But don’t be too heavy–handed. You want to help your readers understand the connections that exist between your project and their purpose without belaboring these connections.

Organize ideas through numbered lists.

Some grant writers use numbered lists to organize their ideas within their proposal. They set up these lists with phrases like, “This project’s three main goals are . . . ” or, “This plan will involve four stages . . . ” Using numbers in this way may not be eloquent, but it can an efficient way to present your information in a clear and skimmable manner.

Write carefully customized proposals.

Because grant funding is so competitive, you will likely be applying for several different grants from multiple funding agencies. But if you do this, make sure that you carefully design each proposal to respond to the different interests, expectations, and guidelines of each source. While you might scavenge parts of one proposal for another, never use the exact same proposal twice . Additionally when you apply to more than one source at the same time, be sure to think strategically about the kind of support you are asking from which organization. Do your research to find out, for example, which source is more likely to support a request for materials and which is more interested in covering the cost of personnel.

Go after grants of all sizes.

Pay attention to small grant opportunities as well as big grant opportunities. In fact, sometimes securing a smaller grant can make your appeal for a larger grant more attractive. Showing that one or two stakeholders have already supported your project can bolster your credibility.

Don’t give up! Keep on writing!

Writing a grant proposal is hard work. It requires you to closely analyze your vision and consider critically how your solution will effectively respond to a gap, problem, or deficiency. And often, even for seasoned grant writers, this process ends with rejection. But while grant writers don’t receive many of the grants they apply to, they find the process of carefully delineating and justifying their objectives and methods to be productive. Writing closely about your project helps you think about and assess it regardless of what the grant committee decides. And of course, if you do receive a grant, the writing won’t be over. Many grants require progress reports and updates, so be prepared to keep on writing!

Successful Sample Grant Proposals

One of the best ways to learn how to write grant proposals is to analyze successful samples. We’ve annotated and uploaded three very different kinds of successful proposals written by colleagues associated with UW–Madison. We encourage you to carefully read these samples along with the annotations we’ve provided that direct your attention to specific ways each one is doing the work of a strong proposal. But don’t stop with these! Find additional samples on your own of successful proposals like the one you’re writing to help guide and further your understanding of what has worked and been persuasive.

• Sample Grant Proposal 1 (PDF) Fellowship Proposal for UW–Madison’s Center for the Humanities’ Public Humanities Exchange (HEX)
• Sample Grant Proposal 2 (PDF) Proposal for a 3–Year National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship
• Sample Grant Proposal 3 (PDF) Madison Writing Assistance’s grant proposal to the Evjue Foundation

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ANNOTATED SAMPLE GRANT PROPOSALS

How to Use Annotated Sample Grants

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.

How do I decide which sample grants to read?

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.

• Read through the Methodology Definitions and Proposal Features  to identify which methodolog(ies) are most similar to your proposed project. 
• Use the Annotated Sample Grant Database ( scroll below the definitions and features) filters or search for this methodology to identify relevant proposals and begin reading!

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.  

How do I get my proposal to look like these sample grants?

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

METHODOLOGY DEFINITIONS & PROPOSAL FEATURES

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).

Computational/Mathematical Modeling

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.

Creative Output

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 .

Design/Build

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.

Literary/Composition Analysis

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.

Qualitative Data Analysis

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.

Quantitative Data Analysis

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.

Proposal Features

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.

International Travel

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.

Non-English Language Proficiency

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.

DATABASE OF ANNOTATED SAMPLE GRANTS

• About Grants
• How to Apply - Application Guide

Samples: Applications, Attachments, and Other Documents

As you learn about grantsmanship and write your own applications and progress reports, examples of how others presented their ideas can help. NIH also provides attachment format examples, sample language, and more resources below.

On This Page:

Sample Grant Applications

Nih formats, sample language, and other examples.

With the gracious permission of successful investigators, some NIH institutes have provided samples of funded applications, summary statements, and more. When referencing these examples, it is important to remember:

• The applications below used the form version and instructions that were in effect at the time of their submission. Forms and instructions change regularly. Read and carefully follow the instructions in your chosen funding opportunity and the Application Guide .
• The best way to present your science may differ substantially from the approaches used in these examples. Seek feedback on your draft application from mentors and others.
• Talk to an NIH program officer in your area of science for advice about which grant program would be a good fit for you and the Institute or Center that might be interested in your idea.
• Samples are not available for all grant programs. Because many programs have common elements, the available samples can still provide helpful information and demonstrate effective ways to present information.

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

• Sample Applications and Summary Statements (R01, R03, R15, R21, R33, SBIR, STTR, K, F, G11, and U01)
• NIAID Sample Forms, Plans, Letters, Emails, and More

National Cancer Institute (NCI)

• Behavioral Research Grant Applications (R01, R03, R21)
• Cancer Epidemiology Grant Applications (R01, R03, R21, R37)
• Implementation Science Grant Applications (R01, R21, R37) 
• Healthcare Delivery Research Grant Applications (R01, R03, R21, R50)

National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)

• Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) Applications and Summary Statements (K99/R00, K01, R01, R03, and R21)
• NHGRI Sample Consent Forms

National Institute on Aging (NIA)

• K99/R00: Pathway to Independence Awards Sample Applications and summary statements
• NIA Small Business Sample Applications (SBIR and STTR Phase 1, Phase 2, and Fast-Track)

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)

• Research Project Grants (R01) Sample Applications and Summary Statements
• Early Career Research (ECR) R21 Sample Applications and Summary Statements
• Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant (R21) Sample Applications and Summary Statements

NIH provides additional examples of completed forms, templates, plans, and other sample language for reference. Your chosen approach must follow the instructions in your funding opportunity and the How to Apply - Application Guide .

• Application Format Pages
• Annotated Form Sets
• Animal Document Samples from Office of Laboratory Animal Welfare (OLAW) for animal welfare assurances, study proposals, Memorandum of Understanding , and more
• Allowable Appendix Materials Examples
• Authentication of Key Biological and/or Chemical Resources Plan Examples
• Biosketch Format Pages, Instructions, and Samples
• Data Management and Sharing (DMS) Plan Samples
• Informed Consent Example for Certificates of Confidentiality
• Informed Consent Sample Language for secondary research with data and biospecimens and for genomic research
• Model Organism Sharing Plans
• Multiple PI Leadership Plan Examples
• Other Support format page, samples, and instructions
• Scientific Rigor Examples
• Person Months FAQ with example calculations
• Plain Language Examples for application title, abstract, and public health relevance statements
• Project Outcome Description Examples for interim or final Research Performance Progress Report (RPPR)

This page last updated on: June 10, 2024

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Grant Proposals (or Give me the money!)

What this handout is about.

This handout will help you write and revise grant proposals for research funding in all academic disciplines (sciences, social sciences, humanities, and the arts). It’s targeted primarily to graduate students and faculty, although it will also be helpful to undergraduate students who are seeking funding for research (e.g. for a senior thesis).

The grant writing process

A grant proposal or 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 widely across the disciplines, and research intended for epistemological purposes (philosophy or the arts) rests on very different assumptions than research intended for practical applications (medicine or social policy research). Nonetheless, this handout attempts to provide a general introduction to grant writing across the disciplines.

Before you begin writing your proposal, you need to know what kind of research you will be doing and why. You may have a topic or experiment in mind, but taking the time to define what your ultimate purpose is can be essential to convincing others to fund that project. Although some scholars in the humanities and arts may not have thought about their projects in terms of research design, hypotheses, research questions, or results, reviewers and funding agencies expect you to frame your project in these terms. You may also find that thinking about your project in these terms reveals new aspects of it to you.

Writing successful grant applications is a long process that begins with an idea. Although many people think of grant writing as a linear process (from idea to proposal to award), it is a circular process. Many people start by defining their research question or questions. What knowledge or information will be gained as a direct result of your project? Why is undertaking your research important in a broader sense? You will need to explicitly communicate this purpose to the committee reviewing your application. This is easier when you know what you plan to achieve before you begin the writing process.

Diagram 1 below provides an overview of the grant writing process and may help you plan your proposal development.

Applicants must write grant proposals, submit them, receive notice of acceptance or rejection, and then revise their proposals. Unsuccessful grant applicants must revise and resubmit their proposals during the next funding cycle. Successful grant applications and the resulting research lead to ideas for further research and new grant proposals.

Cultivating an ongoing, positive relationship with funding agencies may lead to additional grants down the road. Thus, make sure you file progress reports and final reports in a timely and professional manner. Although some successful grant applicants may fear that funding agencies will reject future proposals because they’ve already received “enough” funding, the truth is that money follows money. Individuals or projects awarded grants in the past are more competitive and thus more likely to receive funding in the future.

Some general tips

• Begin early.
• Apply early and often.
• Don’t forget to include a cover letter with your application.
• Answer all questions. (Pre-empt all unstated questions.)
• If rejected, revise your proposal and apply again.
• Give them what they want. Follow the application guidelines exactly.
• Be explicit and specific.
• Be realistic in designing the project.
• Make explicit the connections between your research questions and objectives, your objectives and methods, your methods and results, and your results and dissemination plan.
• Follow the application guidelines exactly. (We have repeated this tip because it is very, very important.)

Before you start writing

Identify your needs and focus.

First, identify your needs. Answering the following questions may help you:

• Are you undertaking preliminary or pilot research in order to develop a full-blown research agenda?
• Are you seeking funding for dissertation research? Pre-dissertation research? Postdoctoral research? Archival research? Experimental research? Fieldwork?
• Are you seeking a stipend so that you can write a dissertation or book? Polish a manuscript?
• Do you want a fellowship in residence at an institution that will offer some programmatic support or other resources to enhance your project?
• Do you want funding for a large research project that will last for several years and involve multiple staff members?

Next, think about the focus of your research/project. Answering the following questions may help you narrow it down:

• What is the topic? Why is this topic important?
• What are the research questions that you’re trying to answer? What relevance do your research questions have?
• What are your hypotheses?
• What are your research methods?
• Why is your research/project important? What is its significance?
• Do you plan on using quantitative methods? Qualitative methods? Both?
• Will you be undertaking experimental research? Clinical research?

Once you have identified your needs and focus, you can begin looking for prospective grants and funding agencies.

Finding prospective grants and funding agencies

Whether your proposal receives funding will rely in large part on whether your purpose and goals closely match the priorities of granting agencies. Locating possible grantors is a time consuming task, but in the long run it will yield the greatest benefits. Even if you have the most appealing research proposal in the world, if you don’t send it to the right institutions, then you’re unlikely to receive funding.

There are many sources of information about granting agencies and grant programs. Most universities and many schools within universities have Offices of Research, whose primary purpose is to support faculty and students in grant-seeking endeavors. These offices usually have libraries or resource centers to help people find prospective grants.

At UNC, the Research at Carolina office coordinates research support.

The Funding Information Portal offers a collection of databases and proposal development guidance.

The UNC School of Medicine and School of Public Health each have their own Office of Research.

Writing your proposal

The majority of grant programs recruit academic reviewers with knowledge of the disciplines and/or program areas of the grant. Thus, when writing your grant proposals, assume that you are addressing a colleague who is knowledgeable in the general area, but who does not necessarily know the details about your research questions.

Remember that most readers are lazy and will not respond well to a poorly organized, poorly written, or confusing proposal. Be sure to give readers what they want. Follow all the guidelines for the particular grant you are applying for. This may require you to reframe your project in a different light or language. Reframing your project to fit a specific grant’s requirements is a legitimate and necessary part of the process unless it will fundamentally change your project’s goals or outcomes.

Final decisions about which proposals are funded often come down to whether the proposal convinces the reviewer that the research project is well planned and feasible and whether the investigators are well qualified to execute it. Throughout the proposal, be as explicit as possible. Predict the questions that the reviewer may have and answer them. Przeworski and Salomon (1995) note that reviewers read with three questions in mind:

• What are we going to learn as a result of the proposed project that we do not know now? (goals, aims, and outcomes)
• Why is it worth knowing? (significance)
• How will we know that the conclusions are valid? (criteria for success) (2)

Be sure to answer these questions in your proposal. Keep in mind that reviewers may not read every word of your proposal. Your reviewer may only read the abstract, the sections on research design and methodology, the vitae, and the budget. Make these sections as clear and straightforward as possible.

The way you write your grant will tell the reviewers a lot about you (Reif-Lehrer 82). From reading your proposal, the reviewers will form an idea of who you are as a scholar, a researcher, and a person. They will decide whether you are creative, logical, analytical, up-to-date in the relevant literature of the field, and, most importantly, capable of executing the proposed project. Allow your discipline and its conventions to determine the general style of your writing, but allow your own voice and personality to come through. Be sure to clarify your project’s theoretical orientation.

Develop a general proposal and budget

Because most proposal writers seek funding from several different agencies or granting programs, it is a good idea to begin by developing a general grant proposal and budget. This general proposal is sometimes called a “white paper.” Your general proposal should explain your project to a general academic audience. Before you submit proposals to different grant programs, you will tailor a specific proposal to their guidelines and priorities.

Organizing your proposal

Although each funding agency will have its own (usually very specific) requirements, there are several elements of a proposal that are fairly standard, and they often come in the following order:

• Introduction (statement of the problem, purpose of research or goals, and significance of research)

Literature review

• Project narrative (methods, procedures, objectives, outcomes or deliverables, evaluation, and dissemination)
• Budget and budget justification

Format the proposal so that it is easy to read. Use headings to break the proposal up into sections. If it is long, include a table of contents with page numbers.

The title page usually includes a brief yet explicit title for the research project, the names of the principal investigator(s), the institutional affiliation of the applicants (the department and university), name and address of the granting agency, project dates, amount of funding requested, and signatures of university personnel authorizing the proposal (when necessary). Most funding agencies have specific requirements for the title page; make sure to follow them.

The abstract provides readers with their first impression of your project. To remind themselves of your proposal, readers may glance at your abstract when making their final recommendations, so it may also serve as their last impression of your project. The abstract should explain the key elements of your research project in the future tense. Most abstracts state: (1) the general purpose, (2) specific goals, (3) research design, (4) methods, and (5) significance (contribution and rationale). Be as explicit as possible in your abstract. Use statements such as, “The objective of this study is to …”

Introduction

The introduction should cover the key elements of your proposal, including a statement of the problem, the purpose of research, research goals or objectives, and significance of the research. The statement of problem should provide a background and rationale for the project and establish the need and relevance of the research. How is your project different from previous research on the same topic? Will you be using new methodologies or covering new theoretical territory? The research goals or objectives should identify the anticipated outcomes of the research and should match up to the needs identified in the statement of problem. List only the principle goal(s) or objective(s) of your research and save sub-objectives for the project narrative.

Many proposals require a literature review. Reviewers want to know whether you’ve done the necessary preliminary research to undertake your project. Literature reviews should be selective and critical, not exhaustive. Reviewers want to see your evaluation of pertinent works. For more information, see our handout on literature reviews .

Project narrative

The project narrative provides the meat of your proposal and may require several subsections. The project narrative should supply all the details of the project, including a detailed statement of problem, research objectives or goals, hypotheses, methods, procedures, outcomes or deliverables, and evaluation and dissemination of the research.

For the project narrative, pre-empt and/or answer all of the reviewers’ questions. Don’t leave them wondering about anything. For example, if you propose to conduct unstructured interviews with open-ended questions, be sure you’ve explained why this methodology is best suited to the specific research questions in your proposal. Or, if you’re using item response theory rather than classical test theory to verify the validity of your survey instrument, explain the advantages of this innovative methodology. Or, if you need to travel to Valdez, Alaska to access historical archives at the Valdez Museum, make it clear what documents you hope to find and why they are relevant to your historical novel on the ’98ers in the Alaskan Gold Rush.

Clearly and explicitly state the connections between your research objectives, research questions, hypotheses, methodologies, and outcomes. As the requirements for a strong project narrative vary widely by discipline, consult a discipline-specific guide to grant writing for some additional advice.

Explain staffing requirements in detail and make sure that staffing makes sense. Be very explicit about the skill sets of the personnel already in place (you will probably include their Curriculum Vitae as part of the proposal). Explain the necessary skill sets and functions of personnel you will recruit. To minimize expenses, phase out personnel who are not relevant to later phases of a project.

The budget spells out project costs and usually consists of a spreadsheet or table with the budget detailed as line items and a budget narrative (also known as a budget justification) that explains the various expenses. Even when proposal guidelines do not specifically mention a narrative, be sure to include a one or two page explanation of the budget. To see a sample budget, turn to Example #1 at the end of this handout.

Consider including an exhaustive budget for your project, even if it exceeds the normal grant size of a particular funding organization. Simply make it clear that you are seeking additional funding from other sources. This technique will make it easier for you to combine awards down the road should you have the good fortune of receiving multiple grants.

Make sure that all budget items meet the funding agency’s requirements. For example, all U.S. government agencies have strict requirements for airline travel. Be sure the cost of the airline travel in your budget meets their requirements. If a line item falls outside an agency’s requirements (e.g. some organizations will not cover equipment purchases or other capital expenses), explain in the budget justification that other grant sources will pay for the item.

Many universities require that indirect costs (overhead) be added to grants that they administer. Check with the appropriate offices to find out what the standard (or required) rates are for overhead. Pass a draft budget by the university officer in charge of grant administration for assistance with indirect costs and costs not directly associated with research (e.g. facilities use charges).

Furthermore, make sure you factor in the estimated taxes applicable for your case. Depending on the categories of expenses and your particular circumstances (whether you are a foreign national, for example), estimated tax rates may differ. You can consult respective departmental staff or university services, as well as professional tax assistants. For information on taxes on scholarships and fellowships, see https://cashier.unc.edu/student-tax-information/scholarships-fellowships/ .

Explain the timeframe for the research project in some detail. When will you begin and complete each step? It may be helpful to reviewers if you present a visual version of your timeline. For less complicated research, a table summarizing the timeline for the project will help reviewers understand and evaluate the planning and feasibility. See Example #2 at the end of this handout.

For multi-year research proposals with numerous procedures and a large staff, a time line diagram can help clarify the feasibility and planning of the study. See Example #3 at the end of this handout.

Revising your proposal

Strong grant proposals take a long time to develop. Start the process early and leave time to get feedback from several readers on different drafts. Seek out a variety of readers, both specialists in your research area and non-specialist colleagues. You may also want to request assistance from knowledgeable readers on specific areas of your proposal. For example, you may want to schedule a meeting with a statistician to help revise your methodology section. Don’t hesitate to seek out specialized assistance from the relevant research offices on your campus. At UNC, the Odum Institute provides a variety of services to graduate students and faculty in the social sciences.

In your revision and editing, ask your readers to give careful consideration to whether you’ve made explicit the connections between your research objectives and methodology. Here are some example questions:

• Have you presented a compelling case?
• Have you made your hypotheses explicit?
• Does your project seem feasible? Is it overly ambitious? Does it have other weaknesses?
• Have you stated the means that grantors can use to evaluate the success of your project after you’ve executed it?

If a granting agency lists particular criteria used for rating and evaluating proposals, be sure to share these with your own reviewers.

Example #1. Sample Budget

Jet travel $6,100 This estimate is based on the commercial high season rate for jet economy travel on Sabena Belgian Airlines. No U.S. carriers fly to Kigali, Rwanda. Sabena has student fare tickets available which will be significantly less expensive (approximately $2,000).

Maintenance allowance $22,788 Based on the Fulbright-Hays Maintenance Allowances published in the grant application guide.

Research assistant/translator $4,800 The research assistant/translator will be a native (and primary) speaker of Kinya-rwanda with at least a four-year university degree. They will accompany the primary investigator during life history interviews to provide assistance in comprehension. In addition, they will provide commentary, explanations, and observations to facilitate the primary investigator’s participant observation. During the first phase of the project in Kigali, the research assistant will work forty hours a week and occasional overtime as needed. During phases two and three in rural Rwanda, the assistant will stay with the investigator overnight in the field when necessary. The salary of $400 per month is based on the average pay rate for individuals with similar qualifications working for international NGO’s in Rwanda.

Transportation within country, phase one $1,200 The primary investigator and research assistant will need regular transportation within Kigali by bus and taxi. The average taxi fare in Kigali is $6-8 and bus fare is $.15. This figure is based on an average of $10 per day in transportation costs during the first project phase.

Transportation within country, phases two and three $12,000 Project personnel will also require regular transportation between rural field sites. If it is not possible to remain overnight, daily trips will be necessary. The average rental rate for a 4×4 vehicle in Rwanda is $130 per day. This estimate is based on an average of $50 per day in transportation costs for the second and third project phases. These costs could be reduced if an arrangement could be made with either a government ministry or international aid agency for transportation assistance.

Email $720 The rate for email service from RwandaTel (the only service provider in Rwanda) is $60 per month. Email access is vital for receiving news reports on Rwanda and the region as well as for staying in contact with dissertation committee members and advisors in the United States.

Audiocassette tapes $400 Audiocassette tapes will be necessary for recording life history interviews, musical performances, community events, story telling, and other pertinent data.

Photographic & slide film $100 Photographic and slide film will be necessary to document visual data such as landscape, environment, marriages, funerals, community events, etc.

Laptop computer $2,895 A laptop computer will be necessary for recording observations, thoughts, and analysis during research project. Price listed is a special offer to UNC students through the Carolina Computing Initiative.

NUD*IST 4.0 software $373.00 NUD*IST, “Nonnumerical, Unstructured Data, Indexing, Searching, and Theorizing,” is necessary for cataloging, indexing, and managing field notes both during and following the field research phase. The program will assist in cataloging themes that emerge during the life history interviews.

Administrative fee $100 Fee set by Fulbright-Hays for the sponsoring institution.

Example #2: Project Timeline in Table Format

Example #3: Project Timeline in Chart Format

Some closing advice

Some of us may feel ashamed or embarrassed about asking for money or promoting ourselves. Often, these feelings have more to do with our own insecurities than with problems in the tone or style of our writing. If you’re having trouble because of these types of hang-ups, the most important thing to keep in mind is that it never hurts to ask. If you never ask for the money, they’ll never give you the money. Besides, the worst thing they can do is say no.

UNC resources for proposal writing

Research at Carolina http://research.unc.edu

The Odum Institute for Research in the Social Sciences https://odum.unc.edu/

UNC Medical School Office of Research https://www.med.unc.edu/oor

UNC School of Public Health Office of Research http://www.sph.unc.edu/research/

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Holloway, Brian R. 2003. Proposal Writing Across the Disciplines. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall.

Levine, S. Joseph. “Guide for Writing a Funding Proposal.” http://www.learnerassociates.net/proposal/ .

Locke, Lawrence F., Waneen Wyrick Spirduso, and Stephen J. Silverman. 2014. Proposals That Work . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Przeworski, Adam, and Frank Salomon. 2012. “Some Candid Suggestions on the Art of Writing Proposals.” Social Science Research Council. https://s3.amazonaws.com/ssrc-cdn2/art-of-writing-proposals-dsd-e-56b50ef814f12.pdf .

Reif-Lehrer, Liane. 1989. Writing a Successful Grant Application . Boston: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.

Wiggins, Beverly. 2002. “Funding and Proposal Writing for Social Science Faculty and Graduate Student Research.” Chapel Hill: Howard W. Odum Institute for Research in Social Science. 2 Feb. 2004. http://www2.irss.unc.edu/irss/shortcourses/wigginshandouts/granthandout.pdf.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Proposal tools, proposal samples, proposal narrative samples.

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Complete Proposal Samples

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Biographical sketches.

See NSF Biographical Sketches .

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Data Management and Open Access Storage (at USF) blurb :

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Digital Commons Data adheres to FAIR principles of Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reuse. All data is "archived in perpetuity for long-term availability, with Data Archiving and​ Networked Services" ( https://www.elsevier.com/solutions/digital-commons/data ). To support open data, all published datasets will have a clear license and a DOI for ease of citation.

Digital Commons Data is a module of Digital Commons, an institutional repository system used by the USF Libraries. In use since 2007, the USF Libraries has supported persistent access and preservation to scholarly works and datasets created at USF with Digital Commons. The datasets created as a result of this project align with key library research collections, notably the Florida Environment and Natural History Collections Initiative ( https://lib.usf.edu/library-administration/innovative-research-collections/ ).

See our guide on how to use the repository: https://guides.lib.usf.edu/dcd

• NSF DMP (Biological Sciences - DBI)
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NSF CAREER Post-Doctoral Mentoring Plans

• NSF CAREER Post-Doctoral Mentoring Plan

Graphics & Captions

• Samples that demonstrate how graphics and captions propel proposals forward.

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• CAS Core Facilities Descriptions & Available Equipment

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Sample Grant Applications

On this page:

• Research Project Grants (R01): Sample Applications and Summary Statements 
• Early Career Research (ECR) R21 Awards: Sample Applications and Summary Statements 

Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant (R21) Awards: Sample Applications and Summary Statements

Preparing a stellar grant application is critical to securing research funding from NIDCD. On this page you will find examples of grant applications and summary statements from NIDCD investigators who have graciously shared their successful submissions to benefit the research community.

You can find more details about the NIDCD grants process from application to award on our  How to Apply for a Grant, Research Training, or Career Development Funding page.

For more examples of applications for research grants, small business grants, training and career awards, and cooperative agreements, please visit Sample Applications & More  on the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases website.

Always follow your funding opportunity’s specific instructions for application format. Although these samples demonstrate stellar grantsmanship, time has passed since these applications were submitted and the samples may not reflect changes in format or instructions.

The application text is copyrighted. You may use it only for nonprofit educational purposes provided the document remains unchanged and the researcher, the grantee organization, and NIDCD are all credited.

Section 508 compliance and accessibility: We have reformatted these sample applications to improve accessibility for people with disabilities and users of assistive technology. If you have trouble accessing the content, please contact the NIDCD web team .

Research Project Grants (R01): Sample Applications and Summary Statements

Investigator-initiated  Research Project Grants (R01)  make up the largest single category of support provided by NIDCD and NIH. The R01 is considered the traditional grant mechanism. These grants are awarded to organizations on behalf of an individual (a principal investigator, or PI) to facilitate pursuit of a research objective in the area of the investigator's research interests and competence.

Laurel H. Carney, Ph.D., University of Rochester

“Developing and testing models of the auditory system with and without hearing loss”

• Full Application (3.53MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (2.7MB PDF)

Leora R. Cherney, Ph.D., & Allen Walter Heinemann, Ph.D., Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

"Defining trajectories of linguistic, cognitive-communicative and quality of life outcomes in aphasia"

• Full Application (5.59MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (336KB PDF)

Benjamin T. Crane, M.D., Ph.D., University of Rochester

“Multi-modal vestibular perception”

• Full Application (2.21MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (468.5KB PDF)

Robert C. Froemke, Ph.D., New York University Grossman School of Medicine

“Synaptic basis of perceptual learning in primary auditory cortex”

• Full Application (5.3MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (608KB PDF)

Rene H. Gifford, Ph.D., & Stephen Mark Camarata, Ph.D., Vanderbilt University Medical Center

"Image-guided cochlear implant programming: Pediatric speech, language, and literacy"

• Full Application (9.63MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (485KB PDF)

Stavros Lomvardas, Ph.D., Columbia University Health Sciences

"Principles of zonal olfactory receptor gene expression"

• Full Application (6.37MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (183KB PDF)

Ryan W. McCreery, Ph.D., Boys Town National Research Hospital

“Complex listening skills in school-age hard of hearing children”

• Full Application (5.17MB)
• Summary Statement (1.32MB PDF)

Dan H. Sanes, Ph.D., New York University

“Social learning enhances auditory cortex sensitivity and task acquisition”

• Full Application (5.81MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (2.85MB PDF)

Christopher Shera, Ph.D., University of Southern California

"Understanding otoacoustic emissions"

• Full Application (6.9MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (447KB PDF)

Early Career Research (ECR) R21 Awards: Sample Applications and Summary Statements

The NIDCD Early Career Research (ECR) R21 Award supports both basic and clinical research from scientists who are beginning to establish an independent research career. The research must be focused on one or more of NIDCD's  scientific mission areas . The NIDCD ECR Award R21 supports projects including secondary analysis of existing data; small, self-contained research projects; development of research methodology; translational research; outcomes research; and development of new research technology. The intent of the NIDCD ECR Award R21 is for the program director(s)/principal investigator(s) to obtain sufficient preliminary data for a subsequent R01 application.

Ho Ming Chow, Ph.D., University of Delaware

“Neural markers of persistence and recovery from childhood stuttering: An fMRI study of continuous speech production”

• Full Application (7.64MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (736KB PDF)

Brian B. Monson, Ph.D., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

"Auditory experience during the prenatal and perinatal period"

• Full Application (3.74MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (525KB PDF)

Elizabeth A. Walker, Ph.D., University of Iowa

“Mechanisms of listening effort in school age children who are hard of hearing”

• Full Application (10.2MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (622KB PDF)

The NIH Exploratory/Developmental Research R21 grant mechanism encourages exploratory and developmental research by providing support for the early and conceptual stages of project development. NIH has standardized the Exploratory/Developmental Grant (R21) application characteristics, requirements, preparation, and review procedures in order to accommodate investigator-initiated (unsolicited) grant applications. Projects should be distinct from those supported through the traditional R01 mechanism. The NIH Grants & Funding website explains the scope of this program .

Taylor Abel, M.D., University of Pittsburgh, & Lori Holt, Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin

“Flexible representation of speech in the supratemporal plane”

• Full Application (11.5MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (1.01MB PDF)

Melissa L. Anderson, Ph.D., MSCI, UMass Chan Medical School

“Deaf ACCESS: Adapting Consent through Community Engagement and State-of-the-art Simulation”

• Full Application (1.34MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (354KB PDF)

Lynnette McCluskey, Ph.D., Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University

“Ace2 in the healthy and inflamed taste system”

• Full Application (6.05MB PDF)

Benjamin R. Munson, Ph.D., University of Minnesota

“Race, ethnicity, and speech intelligibility in normal hearing and hearing impairment”

• Full Application (1.35MB PDF)
• Summary Statement (378KB PDF)

(link is external) .

Introduction

Grants are a unique and valuable resource for nonprofit organizations looking to launch or expand projects. These financial donations, which do not require repayment, can support a wide range of needs, from innovative initiatives to sustaining core functions. But how can nonprofits effectively pursue grants and maximize their chances of success?

In this article, we will explore the key elements of a grant proposal, the process of identifying the right grant opportunities, and the importance of adhering to grant guidelines. We will also delve into the crucial components of an executive summary and need statement, as well as strategies for building a strong proposal preparation team. Additionally, we will discuss the significance of confidence and persuasion in grant writing, the importance of ensuring project quality and feasibility, and the benefits of networking within your community for local support.

Finally, we will provide insights on writing a winning grant proposal, managing time and expenses, getting feedback and revising your proposal, and finalizing and submitting your grant proposal. By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, nonprofits can enhance their grant writing skills and increase their chances of securing the vital funding they need to make a lasting impact.

Why Do You Need a Grant?

Understanding the essence of grants and their impact is essential for nonprofits aiming to advance their missions. Grants are essentially financial donations that do not require repayment, making them a unique and valuable resource for organizations looking to launch or expand projects. These funds are often awarded through a competitive process, with each funder setting specific criteria and guidelines.

Grants can be restricted, earmarked for particular initiatives such as research or program development, or unrestricted, allowing organizations the flexibility to allocate funds towards operational expenses like staff salaries. The versatility of grants means they can support an array of needs, from innovative projects like developing new technology for community use to sustaining the core functions of an organization.

To effectively pursue grants, it’s important to articulate clearly defined goals, outlining what you aim to achieve and why it matters. Detail the work your organization has already undertaken and specify the resources necessary to continue. This clarity not only serves to align your team’s efforts but also demonstrates to potential funders the feasibility and worthiness of your project within the grant’s timeframe.

For example, the Ford Foundation, driven by a mission to tackle global inequality, evolved its content management system to better meet the needs of its audience and further its organizational goals. This adaptation underscores the pivotal role that funding can play in an organization’s ability to respond to the changing needs of the communities it serves.

As we look towards a sustainable future, it’s evident that grants not only enable organizations to implement critical projects but also empower them to become integral parts of lasting change within their communities. The pursuit of grants is more than just seeking financial assistance; it’s about forging partnerships that can help organizations achieve far-reaching impact.

Identifying the Right Grant Opportunities

Finding the right grant opportunities is a vital step in crafting a grant proposal that resonates with funders and advances your organization’s objectives. To navigate the grant-seeking process, it’s essential to use available resources effectively, such as grant databases and online platforms, to pinpoint funding sources that are in harmony with your organization’s mission.

An impactful grant proposal should have a clear narrative that articulates the project’s vision and demonstrates its necessity. This could include evidence like community feedback, user surveys, or endorsements from credible third parties. Clearly aligning your project’s goals with the funder’s aims is crucial, as it shows a mutual pursuit of charitable outcomes.

For example, a successful grant application that garnered $50,000 did so by detailing the project’s alignment with the investors’ interest in promoting AI safety measures, backed by the applicant’s relevant academic background and professional network.

Understanding the broader context within which your project sits is also important. Stay informed about the work of organizations like the Future of Life Institute and the Center for Humane Technology, which strive to shape a future where technology aligns with human welfare and community strengthening. This knowledge can inspire your grant proposals and demonstrate a commitment to contemporary issues.

When writing your proposal, foreground the organizational history, the anticipated impact of the project, and any additional services you provide. This context establishes the project’s viability within the grant’s time frame and can sway funders’ assessments of its merit. Moreover, forging connections with decision-makers through platforms like LinkedIn, attending relevant conferences, and participating in funder-hosted events can provide a personal touch that reinforces the relationship between your organization and potential funders.

Remember, grant proposals are more than just requests for funding; they are opportunities to showcase your organization’s mission and financial needs compellingly. By presenting a well-constructed argument supported by data and a clear vision, you can create a persuasive grant proposal that stands out in a competitive landscape.

Key Elements of a Grant Proposal

Crafting a compelling grant proposal is akin to presenting a roadmap of your organization’s vision and the specific journey you wish to embark upon. It’s a narrative that encapsulates your mission, pinpoints the necessities, and outlines the initiatives you’re eager to undertake. Let’s delve into the anatomy of a grant proposal, highlighting integral components like the executive summary and need statement, complemented by examples and strategic advice to enhance your proposal’s persuasiveness.

Begin with a concise, descriptive title and an abstract that encapsulates the essence of your proposal—summarize your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. This snapshot should be clear and informative, providing a bird’s-eye view of your project’s scope and significance.

Detail the background of your organization, shedding light on its history and the broader impact your project aims to achieve. By painting a vivid picture of your organization’s context and the community it serves, you elucidate the relevance and potential of your proposed work. For example, if your project involves innovative research, such as growing human blood vessels in a lab, explain the steps, timeline, and the transformative implications it could have on medical practices.

In the heart of the proposal, articulate your hypothesis or central research question with clarity. Whether it’s an investigation into the effects of a long-term medication or a new educational initiative, stating your hypothesis sets the stage for the narrative that follows. It serves as a foundation upon which the entire proposal is built, guiding the direction of your research and analysis.

Your proposal should also include an action plan —a detailed layout of the resources you’ll utilize (inputs), the activities planned (actions), the tangible evidence of work (outputs), and the expected results (outcomes). This section not only demonstrates your project’s feasibility within a grant timeframe but also showcases a thoughtful, strategic approach to reaching your goals.

Finally, ensure that your proposal aligns with current grant opportunities, tailoring each element to meet specific criteria and demonstrate your organization’s alignment with the funder’s vision. Stay informed about the latest grants focusing on industries or initiatives relevant to your work, and adjust your proposal accordingly to improve your chances of success.

Executive Summary: A Crucial Component

Crafting an impactful executive summary in your grant proposal is a pivotal step in capturing the attention of potential funders. This section should encapsulate the essence of your organization and the project for which funding is sought. Begin with a clear and engaging title, then proceed to succinctly summarize the research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

The abstract should not only be concise but also comprehensive, highlighting the significance and relevance of your project within its field.

From there, articulate the research problem or question with clarity, providing a context that includes a brief overview of pertinent prior research. Your executive summary should clearly outline the project’s objectives, which must be specific, measurable, and attainable, serving as the cornerstone of your proposal. A well-prepared literature review should also be integrated, pinpointing the gaps your project aims to address, thus underscoring the necessity and innovation of your research.

Methodology is a key component — describe your planned approach , ensuring funders understand the steps you will take, the resources required — people, information, infrastructure — and how you will overcome potential obstacles. The inclusion of ‘inputs’ and ‘actions or activities’ your team will engage in, as well as ‘outputs’ and ‘outcomes’ expected, further illustrates a comprehensive plan.

Additionally, your summary should reflect on the broader impact of the project, answering how it aligns with the larger goals of the community and what changes are anticipated. By addressing these elements with clear, direct language, and supporting your statements with relevant data and examples, your executive summary stands to make a compelling case for your project’s worthiness and feasibility within the grant’s timeframe.

Need Statement: Convincing Funders of Urgency

Crafting a persuasive need statement is a pivotal part of your grant proposal. It’s your opportunity to articulate the urgency and importance of your project, laying out the dire need for funding. Begin by outlining your organization’s history, the substantial impact you anticipate, and any existing programs or services that set the stage for your current initiative.

Illustrate the scope of the problem you’re addressing, as exemplified by Vida Plena, a Latin American organization tackling the mental health crisis. They effectively presented the critical nature of their mission by highlighting the region’s high depression and anxiety rates and the drastic underfunding of mental health services. By framing the issue with compelling statistics—like the fact that low- and middle-income countries bear 80% of the mental health disease burden—they successfully demonstrated the necessity of their project.

When discussing the potential impact of your project, emphasize the expected outcomes and how they align with the funder’s objectives. For instance, a project aimed at enhancing fish welfare in Mediterranean aquaculture might focus on the environmental and economic benefits of such an initiative, even if the first attempt didn’t yield the desired engagement with farmers. Acknowledging the lessons learned and the value of supporting established organizations can further strengthen your case.

Keep in mind that your need statement should also reflect current trends in funding. As the health fund model gains traction as a novel approach to finance private healthcare centers, adapt your argument to appeal to these innovative funding mechanisms.

Moreover, it’s essential to offer a clear, concise glimpse into your research question, objectives, and methodology—elements that are crucial for a well-structured research proposal. Drawing on the advice of experts, ensure that your objectives are well-defined, focused, and measurable, guiding your proposal toward a successful outcome.

In conclusion, by meticulously detailing the context of your work and underscoring the profound impact of the proposed project, your need statement will resonate with potential funders, compelling them to act in support of your vital cause.

Project Budget and Sustainability

Crafting a detailed project budget is a critical step in conveying the financial viability and sustainability of your initiative. It involves listing every expense required, from labor costs for you and your team, to materials, services, and even non-paid contributions known as in-kind aids. This comprehensive approach helps to paint a full picture of the project’s financial demands, including often overlooked details like publicity, insurance, and taxes.

Starting with a broad outline, your budget will evolve into a more specific document as you prepare to present it to potential funders. It’s not just about the sum of the costs; it’s about telling the story of your project through numbers. Each item on your budget reflects a part of your plan, offering insights into the materials, the workforce, the location, and the timeline of your project.

This numeric narrative supports your project summary and narrative, illustrating the value and the priorities of your endeavor.

In the context of digital transformation and the increasing significance of technological infrastructure across sectors, understanding the allocation of resources becomes more pertinent than ever. Organizations globally navigate through a landscape where tech investments are integral to success, highlighting the importance of a well-structured budget that aligns with strategic goals.

The budget serves as a mirror to your organization’s values and operational plans, allowing funders to grasp the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’ of your project costs. As you present your budget, remember it’s not just a financial requirement but a strategic tool that reinforces the feasibility and impact of your project, ultimately influencing the decision-making process of your potential backers.

Assembling a Proposal Preparation Team

Crafting a grant proposal is not a solo venture but a team effort, demanding the collective expertise of various individuals within your organization. The foundation of a successful proposal is a well-coordinated team with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Key players in this team often include the project lead, who steers the project’s vision; the financial expert, tasked with creating a realistic budget; and the writer, who articulates the proposal’s narrative.

Equally important is the inclusion of background organizational information early in the proposal. This should encompass your organization’s history , the projected impact of the project, and an outline of any other programs or services offered, which demonstrates the organization’s capacity and credibility.

By clearly stating the objectives of your project, the target audience, and the expected results, you solidify the project’s feasibility within the grant’s timeframe. Such transparency can significantly influence a funder’s perception of your project’s value. As one expert puts it, “Your early proposal sections should reflect the essence of your project, convincing funders of its worth and your organization’s ability to deliver.”

A concise, descriptive title and a well-summarized abstract are pivotal. They should encapsulate your research question, objectives, methodology, and anticipated outcomes—acting as a prelude to the detailed proposal that follows. Moreover, the proposed budget must demonstrate how funds will be allocated wisely towards achieving the stated objectives, with cost estimates that mirror market values and standards.

Remember, the abstract and title are scrutinized first, setting the stage for the detailed proposal. They must be truly representative of the proposed research, and together with a well-planned budget, form the backbone of a persuasive grant application.

Maintaining effective communication and coordination throughout the proposal writing process is non-negotiable. It ensures that all team members are aligned with the project goals and can contribute to a compelling and coherent proposal that stands out in a competitive funding landscape.

Confidence and Persuasion in Grant Writing

Crafting a compelling grant proposal requires a deep understanding of your organization’s narrative. Begin with a strong foundation by outlining your organizational history, detailing the intended impact of your project, and highlighting any additional programs or services offered. This background information is crucial as it establishes the context and foundation for your request.

When presenting your project, clarity and precision are key. State your objectives, define your target audience, and clearly articulate the expected results. This approach not only demonstrates the project’s feasibility within the grant’s timeframe but also plays a pivotal role in swaying the funders’ perception of your project’s merit.

In terms of persuasion, it’s essential to connect with decision-makers on a personal level. Whether it’s through LinkedIn interactions or face-to-face meetings at conferences and funder events, building relationships can offer an edge in the competitive grant landscape.

Remember, your grant proposal is more than a funding request; it’s a narrative that conveys your organization’s mission and needs. By strategically incorporating these elements, your proposal will stand out as a well-crafted document that effectively communicates your organization’s potential for positive impact.

Ensuring Project Quality and Feasibility

Grant proposals that articulate a clear research question, outline achievable objectives, and propose a solid methodology set the stage for a project’s success. Start by crafting a precise, engaging title and an abstract that encapsulates your research question, the goals you’re aiming to achieve, the methods you’ll utilize, and the expected results. This not only provides an at-a-glance summary but also underlines the significance and relevance of your study.

Clearly state your research problem and give an overview of prior research to establish context. Your objectives should be specific, measurable, and attainable , acting as the blueprint for your study. Detail your research methodology explaining how you’ll collect and analyze data, and include a theoretical framework to guide your approach.

Remember to also list a timeline, a budget if necessary, and discuss the potential outcomes and their implications.

Secondary outcomes, such as a novel research method or an unexpected discovery, can also be significant. They demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in your research process and can be just as compelling to funders as primary goals.

In essence, a well-prepared grant proposal demonstrates project feasibility by presenting a clear plan of action, expected results, and the broader impact of the project. This comprehensive approach can significantly influence funders’ decisions by showcasing the project’s potential for success and its capacity to contribute meaningful insights or solutions.

Following Grant Guidelines Precisely

Adhering to specific guidelines and requirements is a cornerstone of successful grant applications. By meticulously aligning your proposal to the funder’s criteria, you not only demonstrate your project’s relevance but also its potential for significant impact. This can be seen in how the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Science Foundation (NSF) emphasize the broader implications of research projects.

Applicants who articulate and plan for these broader impacts in their grant proposals, as illustrated by NSF-funded projects on rapid evolution and local adaptation, show foresight in project planning and dedication to achieving their goals.

Real-world examples highlight the gravity of precision in proposals. The case of the NIH study section and allegations of plagiarism underscores the importance of originality and confidentiality in the application process. It serves as a reminder that your proposal must be unique and authentically represent your project’s objectives.

Moreover, understanding the landscape of your field, akin to the analysis of catastrophic wildfire risks by California utilities, can inform risk mitigation strategies in your proposal. Recognizing potential risks and clearly outlining strategies in your proposal can illustrate thorough planning and enhance the credibility of your application.

Creating connections with decision-makers and attending relevant events can also provide insights into what makes a successful application. Engaging with funders on a personal level can help you gain a deeper understanding of their expectations and how to tailor your proposal accordingly.

Lastly, remember that a strong hypothesis is the backbone of your grant. It guides the direction and analysis of your research, as seen in studies examining the long-term effects of statins on cancer risk. Presenting a clear, well-supported hypothesis can strengthen your proposal and increase its chances of success.

Network Within Your Community for Local Support

Establishing connections with local community leaders and organizations can play a significant role in enhancing your grant proposal. Partnerships often start in their infancy but can lead to robust collaborations and valuable research outputs. Despite challenges such as those imposed by the pandemic, which slowed many projects, partnerships have sustained and even thrived, as evidenced by ongoing shared research findings and the production of research products by both university and community partners.

Embracing a collaborative approach with your community not only aligns with ethical research practices but also helps rectify past wrongs, such as breaches of privacy and misuse of data. Engagement with community stakeholders, when done right, can build trust and lead to a more inclusive research environment.

Moreover, seeking advice, rather than just funding, can lead to beneficial relationships and even financial support. A proactive approach to involving volunteers, such as posting a simple job description for a grant writer on your website, can attract talent from beyond your local area and enhance the quality of your grant proposal.

Organizations like the Decentralization Foundation demonstrate the potential of community engagement. They focus on funding education and research to promote decentralizing technology, particularly in regions where such grants have a significant impact. By requiring that educational materials be accessible for free online, they ensure the broad dissemination of knowledge.

In writing your grant proposal, it’s crucial to clearly state your project’s objectives, target audience, and expected outcomes early on. This not only demonstrates the feasibility of your project but also can be a deciding factor in obtaining funding. A well-articulated understanding of your organization’s history, impact, and services provided adds credibility to your request for support.

To sum up, building relationships within your community can be an invaluable resource. It involves establishing partnerships, leveraging local expertise and resources, and sharing knowledge to strengthen both your proposal and the community’s trust in your work.

Steps to Write a Winning Grant Proposal

Crafting a successful grant proposal is a meticulously organized process, demanding a keen eye for detail and a methodical strategy. The journey begins with a compelling title that encapsulates the essence of your project, immediately followed by an abstract that concisely summarizes the research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

The introduction is pivotal, as it sets the tone for the proposal. It’s where you’ll articulate the significance of your research, outline the research problem, and provide a context rooted in an overview of pertinent previous studies. Clearly defined, focused objectives that are attainable within the grant’s timeframe should be laid out, serving as the foundation for your project.

Your research question or problem statement needs to be stated unambiguously, and its importance within the field should be well-argued. This section should flow into a literature review, positioning your proposed study amid the existing body of work and highlighting the gap your research intends to fill.

Methodology is the backbone of your proposal, where you detail your research plan, including data collection and analysis methods. An explicit statement of your hypothesis will underscore the direction of your inquiry, reminding funders and reviewers of the scientific rigor behind your proposal.

While constructing your proposal, ensure that each section, from the executive summary to the detailed budget, convincingly presents the necessity and potential impact of your project. Remember, in proposals, particularly for education or STEM fields, the sections discussing goals, objectives, and strategies are crucial and often inform funding decisions.

Finally, the outcomes and implications of your research must be addressed, painting a picture of the project’s broader significance and how it aligns with the funder’s priorities. By meticulously following these steps and infusing your proposal with clarity and purpose, you set the stage for a compelling case that can sway decision-makers and secure the vital funding your project needs.

Preparing Your Grant Proposal: Time and Expenses

Developing a grant proposal is a significant investment of both time and resources. It’s essential to judiciously allocate these to ensure that your proposal is comprehensive and persuasive. Begin by crafting a precise and descriptive title , accompanied by an abstract that encapsulates your research question, goals, methodology, and expected outcomes.

This lays the foundation for the introduction, where you’ll highlight the importance and relevance of your research.

Delve into a literature review to position your study within the existing body of work. A clear, well-articulated statement of your research problem or question is crucial, as is detailing your methodology, which should describe your approach to data gathering and analysis.

Objectives are the backbone of your proposal, providing clear and measurable goals that are both focused and achievable. They are the benchmarks against which your progress will be assessed. To support this, a theoretical framework should guide your research, and a detailed timeline will help map out the project’s progression.

If applicable, a budget will need to be included, demonstrating the financial planning behind the project.

Drawing from recent NSF-funded projects, it’s critical to align your proposal with the funder’s evaluation criteria, such as the ‘broader impacts’ of your work. Demonstrating how you plan to achieve these impacts within your project timeline can be advantageous.

Remember, your grant proposal is more than just a request for funding—it’s a reflection of your organization’s mission and capacity to deliver results. Early in the proposal, communicate the impact of your project, your target audience, and the expected outcomes to underscore the feasibility of your project within the grant’s timeframe.

To reinforce your proposal, it’s beneficial to connect with decision-makers and stakeholders. Personalized communication and meaningful interaction can forge stronger relationships and support your funding goals.

Ultimately, your grant proposal is your narrative—make it compelling, clear, and well-structured to convey the significance of your work and the difference it can make.

Developing Your Grant Proposal Outline

Crafting a grant proposal with a well-structured outline is pivotal in securing the attention and support of funders. Start with a succinct and descriptive title, followed by an abstract that encapsulates your research question, objectives, methodology, and projected outcomes. These elements should make a compelling case for the significance of your research and its potential contributions to the field.

Your proposal must feature a clear articulation of your research problem or question . Furnish it with a solid background, drawing from an array of previous scholarly work to illustrate the gap your research aims to fill. It’s essential to establish specific, realistic, and quantifiable objectives that connect directly to your research problem, acting as benchmarks for your project’s success.

The body of your proposal should delve into a literature review that places your initiative in the broader spectrum of existing studies, highlighting the unique angle your research takes. Describe your research methodology with precision, detailing the data collection and analysis techniques you’ll employ. A theoretical framework should be laid out to guide your investigative approach, alongside a well-planned timeline and a meticulously prepared budget, if necessary.

Endeavor to outline the expected outcomes and the broader implications they may hold for the field. A thoroughly constructed grant proposal is not just about securing funds; it’s a roadmap that clearly conveys the objectives, methods, and significance of your research to stakeholders.

Getting Feedback and Revising Your Proposal

Securing constructive feedback is a critical step in honing your grant proposal. Colleagues, mentors, and sector experts can offer invaluable insights, helping you to understand the potential outcomes of your project. Rather than focusing solely on the primary objectives, consider the broader impact, including secondary outcomes such as new research methods, tools, or discoveries that may arise.

For example, a proposal might underscore a primary goal while also detailing secondary ones that could yield additional benefits or pivot based on fresh research insights.

To ensure your revisions are well-guided, engage with a peer reviewer who can evaluate your proposal’s merits with expertise akin to conducting the research itself. Both funders and publishers often rely on peer review to ascertain the quality of research projects or reports. By actively soliciting feedback, you can identify areas for improvement, whether it’s a matter of clarifying objectives or simply using the right font.

Networking also plays a pivotal role; connecting with decision-makers via platforms like LinkedIn and attending relevant events can provide opportunities to gather direct feedback. Such interactions not only strengthen relationships but also offer a chance to ask funders pointed questions about the strengths and weaknesses of your proposal. As one seasoned funder from the Center for Effective Philanthropy suggests, learning from the feedback received is crucial for making strategic adjustments and enhancing your proposal.

Moreover, keeping abreast of the latest news in philanthropy can inform your approach. For instance, GiveWell’s recent growth and funding projections highlight the competitive landscape and underscore the importance of impactful proposals. Your proposal should not only communicate your project’s objectives and anticipated impact but also align with the funder’s strategic priorities, increasing its chances of success.

Finalizing and Submitting Your Grant Proposal

The culmination of your grant proposal writing is a meticulous process that includes the careful review, editing, and formatting of your proposal before submission. It’s essential to ensure that your proposal articulately presents your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. A well-chosen title and a comprehensive abstract are crucial elements that provide a snapshot of your project’s essence.

The abstract should succinctly encapsulate the heart of your project: the pivotal research question, the strategic objectives that stem from it, the methodology you will employ to achieve these objectives, and the anticipated results of your endeavors. Your introduction should not only set the stage for your research but also highlight its importance within the field, making a compelling case for your research problem backed by a thorough literature review.

Your proposal must clearly define the research question and outline the objectives that address this question—objectives that are specific, measurable, and attainable. They should form the backbone of your proposal, providing clear direction for your research. The methodology section should detail your study’s operational plan, including the processes of data collection and analysis.

If needed, a well-thought-out budget and timeline should accompany your methodology, adding to the proposal’s robustness.

Furthermore, it’s important to communicate the potential impact and broader implications of your study. This not only demonstrates the value of your research but also its feasibility within the grant’s timeframe, which can significantly sway the funding agency’s decision.

Staying informed about recent updates and changes in submission guidelines is also crucial. For example, certain funding opportunities now accept applications and reports in multiple languages, and specific eligibility criteria must be met. Being aware of such updates can prevent unnecessary rejections of your proposal.

Lastly, remember the significance of establishing a connection with funders. Personalizing communications, engaging with their content, and seizing opportunities to meet face-to-face at conferences or events can strengthen your relationship and increase the likelihood of your proposal’s success.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Grant Proposals

Grant proposals are a critical component for securing funding and require meticulous attention to detail. A common pitfall is overlooking the abstract and title, which are often the first elements scrutinized by reviewers. These should encapsulate a concise background, defined objectives, methodology, and the project’s significance, serving as an accurate reflection of the research proposed.

Equally important is the budget, which must demonstrate how funds will be utilized to meet objectives, necessitating precise and realistic cost estimates for direct and indirect expenses, aligned with market values. The budget should be broken down by category , as reallocating funds can be challenging due to regulatory constraints.

In drafting your proposal, it’s essential to convey the organizational history, the anticipated impact of the project, and any additional services provided. This information establishes the project’s feasibility within the grant period and its potential value, which can significantly influence the funding decision. For instance, Vida Plena’s co-founders, Joy Bittner and Anita Kaslin, presented a compelling case by outlining their organization’s mission for robust mental health in Latin America, the widespread challenge of mental disorders, and their strategic approach to addressing mental health needs with evidence-based solutions.

They also detailed the economic implications of untreated mental health issues, including reduced productivity and increased absenteeism, thereby underscoring the broader societal benefits of the project. Such comprehensive and well-structured proposals can enhance the effectiveness of your application and set it apart in a competitive funding landscape.

In conclusion, grants are a valuable resource for nonprofits, providing financial support for launching or expanding projects. To maximize their chances of success, nonprofits should articulate clear goals, align with grant guidelines, and identify the right opportunities. Crafting a persuasive grant proposal involves key elements like the executive summary and need statement, supported by a strong proposal preparation team.

Confidence and persuasion play a crucial role in grant writing, emphasizing the organization’s mission and financial needs. Ensuring project quality and feasibility requires clear objectives and adherence to grant guidelines. Networking within the community can also enhance the proposal’s credibility.

Writing a winning grant proposal involves a meticulous process of developing a well-structured outline, securing feedback, and revising accordingly. By following these steps, nonprofits can enhance their grant writing skills and secure the vital funding they need to make a lasting impact. In conclusion, grants offer nonprofits the opportunity to secure financial support for their projects, and by effectively pursuing grants, nonprofits can increase their chances of success and achieve their goals.

Ready to enhance your grant writing skills and secure vital funding for your nonprofit projects? Join OpenGrants today and take advantage of our comprehensive platform to find and apply for grants. Our AI technology and network of experts are here to support you every step of the way. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to achieve your goals and make a lasting impact. Sign up now!

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