PROPOSAL ASSISTANCE

We offer assistance with single-PI proposals, small team proposals, large team and Center-level proposals, and institutional proposals.  

Please note that we are not grant writers (i.e, we do not write the first draft of the proposal narrative). Because research proposals must express the scientific vision and research agenda of the PI and research team, we do not write grants for the PI; instead, we work closely with the PI and research team to help them express their vision and describe their proposed project in the most competitive way possible.

We can work with faculty to provide various types of assistance, including:

  • Kick-off solicitation workshop for the proposal development team to discuss solicitation requirements, program history, and review criteria.

  • Assistance with project planning

  • Development of a work plan for producing the proposal

  • Development of a detailed proposal outline

  • Review and editing of proposal drafts

  • Advice on proposal strategy, including budgets, letters of support, assessment, external advisory boards, etc.

  • One-time "red team" review of a completed proposal draft

PIs or proposal teams are encouraged to contact us to discuss the types and level of assistance you need. A detailed statement of work with a firm price quote will be provided based on our discussion.

DEVELOPING CENTER LEVEL PROPOSALS
TIPS FOR SUCCESS

  • Start planning early - successful center level proposals require at least 6 months of preparation

  • Have a vision - convincing center proposals are organized around a clear and compelling vision

  • Strong and dedicated leadership - producing a successful proposal (and running the center if the grant is awarded) require an energetic, highly involved leader

  • Assemble a research team based on the Center vision and mission - it is often tempting to start with a group of researchers and then try to develop an ad hoc research vision based on those researchers' interests.  This results in an unfocused proposal.

  • Build on existing strengths and previous funding -  reviewers will look for indicators of past successes and collaboration.  It may be necessary to pursue smaller grants first in order to build a track record.

  • Dedicate effort and resources to all required components of the Center - Centers usually require non-research components such as outreach, education, commercialization, dissemination, diversity, and more.  These components cannot be afterthoughts and must be integrated into the vision of the Center.