Proposal Checklist

Grant applications are like snowflakes; at first glance, they all seem to be the same thing, but when you look closer at those application guidelines, you can notice all of the small, unique details.

These details, though seemingly small, can have a large impact! For instance, did you know that approximately 60% of proposals aren't even reviewed because they are not a good fit for the agency or they didn't follow the guidelines?

To make sure that you don't become part of this statistic, ORDE is happy to share our revised proposal checklist. Below are some highlights from this list:

Watch font and size: It is oh so tempting to shrink your type size or select a font that is smaller than that prescribed, but don't do it! Follow all margin, spacing, font, and sizing to a T, including image and figure captions. Remember, reviewers are reading many proposals that follow the rules. Don't think they won't notice if you cheat a little bit to make space.

Adhere to the deadline: You want to make sure that you know the date and time the proposal is due, but also double check that you know what time zone they're operating in. Even once you have all those details locked into your calendar, try to get your proposal in a day early so you won't panic if the system isn't working or you get an error when you hit 'submit.'

Make sure you're eligible: Well before you start writing your proposal, double check that you are eligible for the grant. Things like citizenship requirements, years past terminal degree, or your institutional type can knock you out of the running altogether. Even if you think you're eligible, but you're not entirely sure about a requirement, call the agency to make sure that you're not only eligible but a desirable candidate for the grant. There's nothing worse than working hard on a grant that reviewers will quickly decide you're not a good fit for!

Ask for accompanying letters early: If you need letters of support or letters from consultants or other affiliates, ask for them as soon as possible. You won't do yourself any favors in annoying a letter writer by asking him/her to write a letter for you at the last minute. Also, offer to draft the letter for them. That way it's less work for the signatory, and you get a chance to get everything in the letter you think the reviewers will want to see.

It can be frustrating applying to a new agency when you've memorized your normal go-to agency's proposal guidelines, but since they are the ones funding you (hopefully), they get to make the rules. But, on the bright side, really knowing an agency's guidelines well gives you a better sense of the agency and what they're looking for, which will give you a competitive edge.

To see ORDE's full checklist, go here. The Proposal Checklist is the second item down.