Tip 1: Start With the 'So What?'
Every proposal must answer: why does this matter? Who benefits? State this in the first paragraph. Reviewers who do not understand importance by page one rarely become advocates.
Tip 2: Write for a Smart Non-Specialist
Review panels include researchers from adjacent fields. Avoid jargon in introductory sections; use analogies to make complex concepts accessible.
Tip 3: Make Innovation Explicit
State directly: "Unlike previous approaches which [X], this proposal [Y] by..."
Tip 4: Demonstrate Feasibility
Include preliminary data, relevant expertise, and realistic milestones that prove deliverability.
Tip 5: Budget Must Be Specific
Every line item needs clear justification. Vague budgets signal inexperience.
Tips 6–10
- Read the funder's priorities document carefully.
- Get at least two colleagues to review before submission.
- Address all review criteria explicitly.
- If resubmitting, address every reviewer comment directly.
- Allow two weeks between last draft and final read.