Introduction to Grant Funding: A Primer for Early Career Researchers

Early-career hospitalists interested in research often face uncertainty when deciding whether to apply for grant funding. This article provides a practical guide to help early-career researchers navigate early decisions in the grant application process. We review key sources of grants (federal funding, foundations, professional societies, institutional, and commercial), as well as common types of grants (eg, pilot or seed grants, travel grants, career development awards, engagement or community partnership grants, independent research grants) that may be of interest to junior investigators. We take readers through the process of determining whether specific grants are the right fit, how to decide if they should apply, sources of grants, and how to find them. The article addresses the next steps after submission, including interpreting feedback, options for resubmission, or alternative approaches if funding is not secured. Overall, this guide aims to demystify the grant-writing process and support early-career hospitalist researchers in taking their first steps toward funded research. Several helpful tips are also provided. A future article will take readers through the process of writing components of individual grants.