Funder Selection
Selecting a funder goes in tandem with your specific research strategy. Varying levels of research are aptly paired with varying levels of funding. Miscalculating this step could set you back in both timeline and resources. But, when your research is in line with your carefully crafted trajectory, you know which sandbox to be in. Our funder selection services position you for a fundable future.
Concept Paper
What is it? A concept paper is a 1–5-page paper that succinctly outlines the basics of your proposed idea. Concept papers may be used to interest potential funders, serve as the foundation of a full proposal, but in the context of the grant world, are usually submitted to a Program Officer in order for them to determine whether or not your idea aligns with their intentions or is worth further discussion. In this case, you often follow up with a phone call to discuss and “pitch” your idea.Â
Concept papers are a succinct and efficient way to get quality feedback in a timely manner. This single step allows you to assess your competitiveness from the funder’s perspective, as well as determine how flexible the funder is in their research goals. On the flip-side, it may necessitate some flexibility in research goals on your own part. Concept papers are also a great way to onboard collaborators and partners, as it provides a much-needed framework for their participation.
It takes a little extra work, but concept papers ensure that you are on the right path or if not, provide the necessary reframing for a fundable project that is aligned with funder guidelines.
How can we help you?
- Review and provide critical feedback on concept paper
- Soundness
- Funder alignment
- Competitiveness
- Suggestions for improvement
- Provide a research design summary to briefly explain the “how” of your idea
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Coaching and training are about capacity building. Our coaching and training services can offer support through broader nuanced processes such as grant writing or through developing evaluation plans, or more task-specific items.
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The opportunity landscape is the who’s and what’s of the grant funding world, and it is varied, yet specific.
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Early career mentorship and training services are geared towards researchers with less than 3 years of relevant work experience.
Learn MoreArticles and White Papers About Concept Paper
The Role of Data Analysis in Funder Selection: 10 Insights and Strategies
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Decoding Funder Priorities: 5 Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Funders for Your Projects
Introduction In the funding landscape, understanding and aligning with funder priorities is vital. Selecting the right funders requires a nuanced approach that goes beyond identifying sources of funding. It involves decoding their priorities, evaluating compatibility, and strategically positioning your project to meet their expectations. This comprehensive understanding of funder priorities...
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The Art of Funder Engagement: 5 Strategies for Building Strong Partnerships
Introduction In research and development (R&D), as well as in nonprofit and corporate sectors, the ability to secure and maintain productive relationships with funders is essential. Funder engagement goes beyond securing grants or financial support. It involves cultivating mutually beneficial partnerships that drive long-term impact and innovation. This article explores...
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5 Best Practices for Effective Funder Selection in Research and Development
Introduction Securing funding is a critical step in driving innovation and progress in research and development (R&D). Identifying the right funders, those whose priorities align with your project’s goals, can make the difference between success and failure. Effective funder selection requires a strategic approach that incorporates thorough research, relationship-building, and...
Read MoreFAQ About Concept Papers
The key to a strong logic model is the visual display of linkages, so text narrative should not replace the graphic. Strong proposals do provide a written description of logic model text in its narrative.
Generally, the logic model is one-page in length, which is why they can be tricky to do. Some funders do require double-spacing for all text, graphics included, which would make your logic model two pages.
If you are pursuing large scale funding without having the experience of small then medium sized funding, more than likely you will not be funded. Large scale funders need confidence to know that you can manage and be successful with smaller funding.
The submission criteria is what gets your proposal through the gates (so to speak). It is also what reviewers use to review and rate your proposal (the contents). However, you want to build and write your proposal in a way that when a reviewer is down to two equally strong proposals, they remember yours.
Funders can have a specific requirement for concept papers. If they don’t, usually the categories fall as Summary, Need for the Work, Goals and Objectives, Activities, Impact, and Qualifications. Sometimes, larger funders require more structured categories. Either way, be sure to tailor it to their requirements, using their words, structure, etc. Be sure to have a hook, focus on impact and how it addresses the need, and use bold/italics/underline to draw attention to key points. Concept papers should never be longer than 5 pages.
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Peggy Ostrander, DNPc, APRN, FNP-C Plano, Texas