Proposal Preparation Checklist

This checklist serves as a planning tool for investigators who are considering preparation of a grant proposal. The checklist identifies some of the early considerations to help you move through the proposal preparation and submission process smoothly. This is a challenging process even with the best planning.

Consider these issues as you develop your concept paper. The Proposal Preparation Committee can also be helpful in providing critical feedback about the idea you have. This information can help you revise and refine your idea. Expect critical feedback and questions about all aspects of the proposal.

A. Capacity Assessment. Review RFP and decide if you and/or your team have the expertise to submit a COMPETITIVE proposal. Consider previous research activity, long range plans of your department, interest of colleagues, support of your department chair, capacity of your department to support the activities of the study. It is important to assess the time commitment needed to implement the project.

B. Literature Search. Review recently published articles to see what has already been done to help you decide if your idea is new, novel or a creative variation of something already done. You will need to include some of this information in your proposal. What is your experience in this area? What can you offer that will build or expand the existing science base?

C. Writing Team. Who are the members of the writing team? Does the RFP suggest the need to have involvement from several areas of expertise? Do you have time to write a competitive proposal? You will need to create a timeline that allows for adequate editing and review as well as processing within the University.

D. Advisors, Expert Consultants. Do you need expert advisors for the proposal preparation? Do you have a relationship with these experts? Should you consider asking such an expert to be a part of your team?

E. Mentor. If you are a new investigator, would it be helpful to work with a mentor? Do you have contacts that might consider such an arrangement?

F. Logistical Support. Do you have support for actually preparing the proposal. This includes editing and formatting the document. Many funders have specific requirements including issues such as font type and size, margins, number of copies you must submit, format of documents such as Biosketches and Other Supports.