Facutly & Staff Research

Whether you are in the beginning stages of developing your idea or are ready to submit an application, the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs is available to help. ORSP provides many services to assist with the proposal process including searching for funding opportunities, interpreting solicitations, developing budgets, reviewing applications, and collecting appropriate institutional approvals. Please see the 11 mistakes to avoid below followed by 7 steps to help you get started and understand how ORSP is able to assist you during the proposal process.

11 Mistakes You'll Make before noon

  1. Submitting a generic proposal
    1. Using the same proposal for every funder leads to poor alignment.
    2. Avoid it: Tailor each proposal to the funder’s mission, language, and priorities.
  2. Weak problem statement
    1. The need is unclear, unproven, or overly emotional.
    2. Avoid it: Use data, citations, and clear logic to show why the project matters.
  3. Vague goals and objectives
    1. Objectives that can’t be measured or evaluated.
    2. Avoid it: Use SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) objectives.
  4. Overly ambitious scope
    1. Proposing too much for the time frame or budget.
    2. Avoid it: Match your plan to realistic capacity and resources.
  5. Poorly constructed budget
    1. Numbers that don’t match the narrative or seem unreasonable.
    2. Avoid it: Align budget items with activities; justify each cost.
  6. Lack of clarity or too much jargon
    1. Technical language or vague writing frustrates reviewers.
    2. Avoid it: Write clearly and concisely for a general audience.
  7. No plan for evaluation
    1. Funders want to know how you’ll measure success.
    2. Avoid it: Provide specific evaluation methods, tools, and metrics.
  8. Ignoring funder guidelines
    1. Wrong formatting, exceeding word/character limits, or missing deadlines.
    2. Avoid it: Follow instructions exactly—they matter.
  9. Weak sustainability plan
    1. Funders worry the program will collapse after the grant.
    2. Avoid it: Explain how activities will continue after the funding ends.
  10. Not demonstrating organizational capacity
    1. Failing to show your expertise, partners, or past success.
    2. Avoid it: Highlight your track record, team qualifications, and existing resources.
  11. Last-minute writing and poor proofreading
    1. Rushed proposals often include errors, inconsistencies, and weak arguments.
    2. Avoid it: Build in time for review, editing, and outside feedback.
 

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