How to Write a Successful Grant

The ultimate purpose of a grant is to secure funding. However, how to achieve that takes precision, research, clear writing and an even better plan. Gerard Koppelman and John Holloway have a list that states the "key elements of project grants:

-the innovativeness of the idea

-a clear focus on a well written hypothesis

-testable specific aims-appropriate preliminary data

-quality of the environment where the proposed research will be performed

-scientific stature of the applicants-correct budget justification

-fulfillment of all regulatory paperwork, including institutional review board approval (Koppelman, Holloway, 2011)

What do all these elements have in common? In my opinion, logical, clear and quality application. The construction of a successful grant all boils down to the details. If each section is not as cared for or clearly stated as the previous section then the funder will not take the grant seriously.

One tactic to avoid feeling overwhelmed is to create a realistic timeline. Set goals for yourself and complete them by a specified date. If any aspect of the grant needs approval, statistical advice or data allow more time for this phase.

However, the feat of writing the grant will take, realistically, the most amount of time. Be sure to put in the timeline a section to focus on editing the grant. You will likely edit more than one time and each section may need to be reviewed differently.

Time management and a detail-oriented mindset are the two most important aspects of writing a grant. Keep in mind that the subject matter should be unique and innovative enough to catch the funders attention as well. Always understand who your audience is and write clear enough so they can be just as excited about your proposal as you are.

Koppelman, Gerard H, and Holloway, John W. "Successful Grant Writing." Pediatric Respiratory Reviews 13.1 (2011): 63-66. Web.

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