Proposal Writer's Handbook
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PROPOSAL WRITER’S HANDBOOK Office of Research & Sponsored Programs Central Michigan University Foust 251 T: (989) 774-ORSP F: (989) 774-3439 E: [email protected] W: http://www.orsp.cmich.edu Table Of Contents Introduction ................................................................................................................................................... 4 1. Office Of Research And Sponsored Programs.................................................................................. 4 2. Why Bother To Write A Proposal? ................................................................................................... 6 3. Types Of University/Sponsor Relationships ..................................................................................... 6 4. Types Of Proposals ........................................................................................................................... 7 Getting Started .............................................................................................................................................. 8 1. Proposal Development Path .............................................................................................................. 8 2. Developing Your Idea ....................................................................................................................... 8 3. Concept Paper ................................................................................................................................... 9 4. Seeking And Selecting A Funding Source ........................................................................................ 9 5. Securing And Reading Guidelines .................................................................................................. 12 6. Contacting The Funding Agency .................................................................................................... 14 7. Letter Of Inquiry ............................................................................................................................. 14 8. Roles And Responsibilities ............................................................................................................. 15 Writing the Proposal ................................................................................................................................... 16 1. Where To Begin? ............................................................................................................................ 16 2. Preliminary Proposals And Letter Proposals .................................................................................. 16 3. Grants vs. Contracts ........................................................................................................................ 17 4. Task And Time Chart ...................................................................................................................... 17 5. Developing An Outline From The Guidelines ................................................................................ 17 6. Writing Style ................................................................................................................................... 18 7. Proposal Content ............................................................................................................................. 18 8. Internal Review ............................................................................................................................... 26 Submitting the Proposal .............................................................................................................................. 28 1. Formatting And Typing .................................................................................................................. 28 2. Page Limit ....................................................................................................................................... 28 3. Deadline Date .................................................................................................................................. 28 4. Lead Time Requirements ................................................................................................................ 28 5. ORSP Transmittal Form.................................................................................................................. 29 6. Financial Disclosure Statement ....................................................................................................... 29 7. Freedom Of Information And Confidential Research Information Acts ........................................ 29 8. University Signatures ...................................................................................................................... 30 9. Cover Sheet ..................................................................................................................................... 30 10. Compliance With Federal, State, And University Regulations ................................................... 30 11. Copying And Mailing ................................................................................................................. 31 Waiting Through the Review Process ......................................................................................................... 32 1. The Review Process ........................................................................................................................ 32 2. Communication From The Agency ................................................................................................. 32 3. Negotiation Of The Award And Acceptance .................................................................................. 33 4. Becoming A Reviewer .................................................................................................................... 33 5. If The Proposal Is Not Funded ........................................................................................................ 34 Accepting and Managing the Award .......................................................................................................... 35 1. Accepting The Award ..................................................................................................................... 35 2. Publicizing The Award ................................................................................................................... 35 3. Project Director's Meeting .............................................................................................................. 35 4. Managing The Award ..................................................................................................................... 35 Appendix A - Budget Development Worksheet ......................................................................................... 36 Appendix B - Glossary ................................................................................................................................ 42 Rev. 08/11/09 2 Appendix C - Annotated Bibliography of Grant Writing Books ................................................................ 47 Appendix D - Grant Proposal Self Assessment Tool .................................................................................. 50 Acknowledgments ....................................................................................................................................... 51 Rev. 08/11/09 3 Introduction 1. Office Of Research And Sponsored Programs The goal of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP) is to make it easier for you to secure external funding for such projects as research, equipment, professional and program development, and conferences. ORSP serves people at all levels of expertise in the grantsmanship process, from those just curious about what a grant is and how it can help them, to seasoned veterans looking for answers to complex legal questions or news about the most recent federal regulations. It is a user-friendly office where ideas are shared and explored. Services Of ORSP ORSP staff will identify possible sources of funding and help you tailor your project to meet the needs of a potential funding agency. If collaboration is helpful, connections with colleagues in other departments or at other universities will be facilitated. Once a potential funding agency has been identified, the staff will obtain and help you interpret the materials you need to submit an application. You are welcome to use the ORSP office to call program officers who will answer your questions. Assistance with proposal preparation, budget development, and overcoming writer's block are available. An internal review of your proposal to enhance your chances of funding can be coordinated through ORSP. Office personnel can negotiate appropriate terms and conditions of agreements and will arrange for legal counsel when necessary. The office staff will secure university signatures and letters of support. The staff will help you understand and comply with the policies, procedures, and assurances regarding sponsored programs. Following receipt of your award, you will receive training on how to manage your account, hire personnel, and purchase equipment and supplies. In addition, ORSP can answer questions about matching funds, contracts, copyrights, patents, and marketable products. Upon request, ORSP staff will make presentations and provide seminars for small groups. These presentations will be planned to meet the needs of individuals, collaborators,