Development of a successful research grant application

The process of identifying appropriate funding agencies for research projects is described, and grant application and review procedures are explained. Although the federal government is the largest single source of research funding, financial support is also offered by associations, foundations, and corporations. Research funding may be divided into two major types: grants, which are awarded in response to investigator-initiated projects, and contracts, under which the research topic is proposed by the funding agency. Competing successfully for grants and contracts requires a sound research plan whose objectives are consistent with those of the funder. Identification of an appropriate potential funding agency requires familiarity with its areas of interest, the size of grants offered, and other criteria. The development of the grant application has several steps, including determining specific aims and long-term project goals, reviewing the literature, obtaining letters of consent from collaborators and consultants, securing colleagues' assistance in reviewing the drafts, preparing a budget, and drafting and revising the proposal. Most grant applications have a number of common elements; each funder also may have unique requirements. Authors should familiarize themselves with the application criteria of the agency or institution from which they are seeking support and follow them scrupulously. Competition for grant funds is high, and many worthwhile proposals are rejected. After studying the reviewers' comments, the author may wish to revise the application for resubmission or submission to a different funding agency. Sound planning, selection of an appropriate funding agency, and preparation of a well-written proposal play key roles in successful grantsmanship.