Navigating the intricacies of grant writing can be daunting, but it's a vital skill for researchers and academics. Many of our own clients use visuals to aid their grant applications, or use their grants to work with us on creating visuals that boost the impact of their work.
But grantsmanship is a skill worth honing. With budgets shrinking and external funding sources becoming more and more competitive, having the skills and approach to set you apart could make all the difference.
Recently, we had the privilege of digitally capturing the wisdom shared at the ‘Effective Grantsmanship’ webinar hosted by The Academy of Medical Sciences, the UK’s independent, expert voice of biomedical and health research. It aimed to equip participants with the knowledge to fine-tune their grant applications.
The event featured three keynote speakers who delved deep into the art of grant writing, covering everything from structuring a research proposal to understanding a funder’s perspective - and we were on hand to capture it all. The key insights are captured below:
Take the initiative
Don't wait for the perfect funding opportunity to come to you - actively seek out potential funders and explore unconventional sources. Network with collaborators and stakeholders to uncover new opportunities. If the perfect fit isn't available, consider reframing your project to align with existing grants or propose new funding initiatives.
Be prepared
Start planning your grant proposal well in advance of the deadline to allow sufficient time for thorough research, drafting, and revisions. Seek input and assistance from colleagues, mentors, and experts in your field - their feedback can be invaluable in refining your proposal. Submit your application when you have strong preliminary results, a well-developed project plan, and when you feel confident in your ability to present a persuasive case.
Understand your audience
Research the funding agency to understand their mission, values, past funded projects, and specific requirements. Use language and framing that resonates with them, clearly showing how your project matches their goals. Tailoring your proposal to fit their specific interests can significantly increase your chances of success.
Personalise your approach
Each grant application should be uniquely tailored to the specific funder and grant opportunity. Avoid using a one-size-fits-all approach. Customise your narrative, objectives, and methods to directly address the priorities and preferences of each funder.
Define roles
Adopt a holistic approach by clearly defining each team member's roles and responsibilities and detailing how their skills contribute to the project's success. Explain the benefits to stakeholders, including the community and your institution. This clarity demonstrates thorough planning and enhances your proposal's credibility.
In the world of grant applications, letters of recommendation can make or break your proposal. Choose respected voices in your field who can credibly and positively highlight your skills, project, and its potential impact. Equip your recommenders with ample details about your work and its significance to ensure they can craft detailed, compelling letters. A well-informed recommender can be your best advocate.
You can see the full summary from the webinar below:
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