The increasing pressure on academics to secure external funding through grants has become a prevalent challenge across various disciplines, affecting not only the sciences but also the humanities and social sciences.

As funding becomes more competitive and financial constraints tighten, scholars from all fields must adapt and learn the art of grant acquisition to sustain their research endeavours and contribute to the ever-growing body of knowledge. This changing funding landscape presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges, necessitating the development of essential skills such as identifying potential funding sources, creating persuasive proposals, and effectively navigating the intricate dynamics between academia and funding organisations.

Identifying funding sources

As the demand for funding has grown, many traditional sources, such as government agencies, have seen their budgets reduced. But private foundations have emerged as alternative sources of funding. For example, the John Templeton Foundation has become a prominent funder for philosophy projects worldwide. Critics often express concerns about the potential influence of private foundations, but major private funders like the John Templeton Foundation do not impose any undue pressure on recipients.

When searching for potential funding sources, it’s essential to research each organisation thoroughly. This includes examining their mission and vision statements, reviewing past funded projects, exploring their FAQs, and familiarising yourself with their grant calendar. Additionally, consider reaching out to those who have received grants from the organisation to learn about their experiences.

Strategies for success

Once you’ve identified a potential funder, consider these three strategies: collaborate with experienced grant recipients, start with smaller grants, and align your project with the funder’s vision.

• Collaborate with experienced individuals. Working with someone who has successfully obtained grants, particularly from the organisation you’re targeting, can increase your chances of success. If you can’t find a collaborator, seek advice or feedback on your project proposal from those who have received grants.
• Start with smaller grants. For first-time grant applicants, it’s advisable to begin with smaller grants. This allows funding organisations to take a smaller risk on you, and it provides an opportunity for you to demonstrate your reliability and capability.
• Align your project with the funder’s vision. Ensure that your project aligns with the funding organisation’s mission and values. This can make your proposal more appealing to the organisation, increasing the likelihood of receiving funding.

Practical tips for grant writing success

Crafting a compelling grant proposal is crucial to securing funding for your research. Here are some practical tips to help you create a winning proposal:

• Start early. Grant writing is a time-consuming process. Start working on your proposal well in advance of the submission deadline to give yourself ample time to research, write, and revise your application.
• Be clear and concise. Clearly articulate your research question, objectives, and methodology. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. Remember, reviewers may not be experts in your specific field, so make your proposal accessible to a wide audience.
• Address the review criteria. Make sure your proposal addresses all the criteria outlined in the funding announcement. Reviewers will use these criteria to evaluate your application, so it’s essential to demonstrate how your project meets each requirement.
• Emphasise the impact of your research. Explain the significance of your research and how it will contribute to your field. Highlight the potential societal, cultural, or economic benefits that may result from your project.
• Provide a realistic timeline and budget. Detail the steps you will take to complete your project and provide a realistic timeline for each phase. Clearly outline your budget, including a breakdown of costs and justifications for each expense.
• Seek feedback from peers and mentors. Share your proposal with colleagues and mentors for feedback. They can provide valuable insights and help you identify any gaps or areas that need improvement.
• Proofread and revise. Before submitting your proposal, carefully proofread your document for errors, inconsistencies, and clarity. Consider asking a colleague or mentor to review your work as well. A polished, well-written proposal will make a strong impression on reviewers and increase your chances of securing funding.

Final thoughts

While there’s no guarantee of success, thorough research, targeted strategies, and persistence can improve your chances of obtaining funding. Keep trying and learn from any setbacks you may encounter along the way. With hard work and determination, you may ultimately be rewarded with the funding you seek.

Ellen Diamond, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.