Proposal Development Guide

Step-by-step guide for pre-proposal activities, proposal preparation, submission, and processing

  1. Develop Original Idea

    • Review the literature and conduct bibliographic searches.
    • Notify the department chair of your research interests.
    • Identify faculty with similar research interests.
    • Identify potential sources of funding.

  2. Complete Pre-Proposal Activities

    • Review potential funding sources.
    • Secure program applications and guideline material.
    • Identify previously funded projects.
    • Draft concept paper and rough budget estimate.
    • Discuss idea with potential sponsors/program officers.

  3. Draft Formal Proposal

    • Complete the draft of proposal and ask colleagues to provide feedback.
    • Complete separate applications to institutional committees (human subjects, animal care).

  4. Prepare and Submit Formal Proposal

    • Complete the final draft of proposal.
    • Complete Internal Coordination Sheet and Conflict of Interest Statement.
    • Deliver proposal to Office for Sponsored Programs for submission to the potential sponsor.
    • Be available for last-minute discussions with administrative personnel.

  5. Award or Declination Processing

    • Be available for negotiation discussion and revision, if necessary.
    • If funded, the award will be established.
    • If not funded, request peer review comments.
    • Resubmit, if appropriate.