Tips for preparing a successful proposal

  1. Start Early!
  2. Research the opportunity:
    1. ensure eligibility;
    2. confirm it is the right sponsor and program for your research; and
    3. understand all of the requirements.
  3. Get to know the review committee:
    1. read the mandate;
    2. review the committee membership;
    3. use effective keywords; and
    4. contact the program officer for more details.
  4. Your CV should:
    1. disseminate findings from previous grants;
    2. identify specific grant support for publications/presentations;
    3. demonstrate status through awards and honours; and
    4. be current and relevant.
  5. Make sure the summary includes:
    1. a hook – capture the reviewers attention;
    2. problems that will be addressed;
    3. the approach;
    4. potential impact; and
    5. why you (your team) is the best suited to do this research.
  6. Use language, section titles, and formatting suggested in the program guidelines.
  7. Include an introductory paragraph clearly linking your research to the outlined objectives/hypothesis.
  8. Write for a generalist:
    1. provide sufficient detail;
    2. avoid jargon; and
    3. be specific.
  9. Justify your budget.
  10. Include any institutional support and research infrastructure.
  11. Incorporate pilot data and relevant publications.
  12. Describe the role of each applicant.
  13. Have a generalist and a specialist (peer) review your proposal.
  14. Submit it to the Office of Research early for extensive review.
  15. Allow time to incorporate changes.
  16. Know internal deadlines and procedures: who signs what and when.
  17. Submit to sponsor and Cover Sheet to OR.

Grant writing

CIHR

NSERC

SSHRC

NFRF