How to Secure More Research Funding
Five simple and effective techniques to maximize your research funding success.
Many scientific research aspirations begin with an idea. An inkling or a hunch or an untapped area of interest. Inspiration can strike anywhere, whether in the midst of years of previous research, or in the middle of the night in a completely new realm of pursuit. But no matter our research goals, we all need one thing to actually get the ball rolling: funding. It's the engine that underpins our practice, and it's absolutely critical to propelling the scientific sphere forward.
So if you're wondering how to secure more research funding, you've come to the right place. We're breaking down five key techniques—think of them as the five P's.
Be prompt.
When it comes to the research grant application process, timeliness is your friend. Review each application thoroughly and stay ahead of deadlines and planning to avoid rushing or missing any critical details.
Be practiced.
Be meticulous about the details. When reviewing a research grant application, make sure you're noting each and every requirement, spec, and need with a fine-tooth comb. Sometimes the most seemingly benign requirement can be the difference between funding and failure—so follow the instructions and reach out to peers and colleagues if you have questions.
Be personal.
Not sure how to take things to the next level? Take advantage of the whole research community. Is there a personal anecdote that demonstrates why this pursuit is so important to you? Never underestimate the power of personal connection when it comes to making your application stand out—and ultimately, helping ensure you secure the funding you need.
Be particular.
You've spent months, years, or even decades digging deep into your respective field. Focus on finding ways to demonstrate your fit with a particular opportunity in distinct and motivating ways. Are there metrics or results you could fold into your qualifications? Can you be more specific about the unique nature of this initiative and how funding will be used? Details matter to funders—and cultivating a motivating base case and roadmap can go a long way toward clinching the opportunity.
Be persistent.
Broaden your potential opportunities by learning about emerging programs or specializations you may not yet have considered. Search for funding from multiple organizations and programs in one place, and receive alerts as new funding opportunities get posted. With such a broad array of resources at your fingertips, it's never been easier to automate that well-timed follow-up or to shift your submissions into a related category that might be more prolific at this moment in time.
Let's recap.
By leveraging the five P's—prompt, practiced, personal, particular, and persistent—you can make small but meaningful adjustments to your application process and the results it delivers. Because ultimately, funding is the backbone for some of the most impactful breakthroughs across the globe.
