Basic Guidelines for Grant Proposal Writing ▪ Make your proposal user-friendly to the agency and reviewers— ▪ ▪ Match guideline headings Respond to every requirement/question/point in RFP Speak the language of the funding agency (use their terms, buzzwords, labels).
Grab the reader in the first sentence of the first paragraph (in both the abstract and the full project narrative). Don’t over-estimate the scope of proposed work required for funding (vs. the scope of work needed for your overall research/project goals). Don’t under-estimate the level of detail to provide in order to get funded (vs. level of detail merely to explain your work). Detail the “sustainability” of your project work — When the grant funds are used up, can the work continue? Detail the far-reaching impact of your project work — Can your work become a template or structure for other institutions or populations? Use the active voice and strong and energetic phrasing. You are not writing a journal article, you are trying to persuade someone to give you money. Do convey your excitement about the work, a proposal is not the time to become academically dispassionate. Be clear and concise (vs. typical academic verbosity, jargon and obtuseness that will put a reviewer to sleep). Stress and state clearly the innovative aspect of your project.
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The Budget— Start costing out items as you write, e.g., time commitments, students, supplies, travel, consultant fees.
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Factor in F&A (indirect costs, overhead) and Fringe Benefits.