Pilot Grants & Preliminary Data

Many investigators joke that to get a grant for your research you have to have completed the research to report your results in your proposal for the project you've already done. And there is a bit of truth in this jest. Most grant-making agencies today want to see significant preliminary data before investing in your project and you with a grant.

This can create a catch 22 for PIs when they need funding to move forward with the projects to get preliminary data. When you're in this situation, your institution may have internal grant programs to help get you going. For instance, at the University of Colorado Denver Campus, the Office of Research Services has an internal grants program to get faculty off and running.

Externally, there are grants for pilot projects or new innovative projects. When applying for these types of grants, it is important that you develop a larger vision for your research beyond your pilot or seed project. What is your ultimate goal? Where will you secure funding for your larger project? Once you know where you're ultimately going with your research and how you will get there, you need to identify the parameters of your pilot or seed project that will allow you to secure the preliminary data you need to compete for your bigger project.

Once you know what you must accomplish in your initial project, you'll be able to outline a budget and clearly describe not only your small initial project but also make the case for what this project will allow you to do afterward.

It's important to note that while some pilot grants are for the very initial stages of research, some require preliminary data or at least expect it. So bear this in mind and read the program announcement thoroughly to determine if the program you choose will meet your needs and if you can meet its demands.

Resources:
Highlight Preliminary Data in Your Application - NIAID

Common Errors in Preliminary Data Section - ConductScience