Private sector support of nursing research

Members of the American Nurses' Association Council of Nurse Researchers were surveyed for information about their nursing research funding activity within the private sector: their submission of proposals to private organizations, the outcomes, and effective funding strategies. Results indicated that 51% of applications submitted to private organizations and 78% of intramural applications were funded. However, 65% of proposals funded by private organizations and 59% of intramurally supported projects were for $3,000 or less. A variety of strategies led to private sector support of successful nursing research proposals. These included making direct, personal contact with funding agencies, matching proposals with the needs and interests of the funding agency, networking with other professionals to obtain funding information, and submitting well-written proposals consistent with agency guidelines.