By Ksenia Bagrintseva, senior grant writer & ERC expert - GO
Securing a grant can be a transformative achievement for researchers and organizations, enabling groundbreaking work that might otherwise be impossible. Understanding who evaluates the grant and what they prioritize is crucial to crafting a successful proposal.
Who Evaluates the Grant? Grant proposals are typically evaluated by a panel of experts in the relevant field.
These evaluators may include:
- General Experts: scientists with deep knowledge in the specific area of research which might not always be the same as the focus of your proposal.
- Funding Agency Representatives: individuals who ensure that the proposal aligns with the strategic goals and priorities of the funding organization.
- External Reviewers: experts with deep knowledge in the specific area of research or project focus. They assess the technical and scientific merits of the proposal.
What are Key Evaluation Criteria? Understanding the criteria evaluators use can significantly enhance the quality of your proposal. Here are the primary factors they consider:
Scientific and Technical Merit: The core idea of the proposal must be innovative, significant, and feasible. Clear objectives, a solid theoretical framework, and a robust methodology are essential.
Alignment with Funding Priorities: The proposal must align with the goals and priorities of the funding organization. Carefully review the grant guidelines to ensure your project fits within these parameters.
Impact and Broader Significance: Evaluators look for projects that have the potential to make a significant impact, whether in advancing knowledge, addressing societal issues, or contributing to technological progress.
Qualifications of the Research Team: The expertise and track record of the team are critical. Demonstrating that your team has the necessary skills, experience, and collaborative capability is essential.
Budget and Resource Justification: A well-justified budget that aligns with the project’s needs shows that you have carefully planned the project and understand the resources required.
Steps to Writing a Successful Grant Proposal
Start Early: Grant writing is a time-consuming process - begin well in advance.
Understand the Guidelines: Carefully read the funding agency’s guidelines and ensure you meet all requirements.
Craft a Compelling Narrative: Your proposal should tell a compelling story - clearly articulate the problem, your proposed solution, and why it matters.
Highlight the Innovation: Explain what makes your project unique and how it will advance the field.
Provide Preliminary Data: Include preliminary data to support the feasibility of your project, this can strengthen your proposal.
Build a Strong Team: Highlight the qualifications of your team members and their roles in the project.
Justify the Budget: Provide a detailed and realistic budget.
Proofread and Revise: Review your proposal multiple times to eliminate errors and improve clarity.
Grant writing is an art that requires careful planning, clear communication, and a deep understanding of the evaluation process. By focusing on the evaluators' criteria and crafting a well-thought-out proposal, you can significantly increase your chances of success.
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