Developing and Submitting Proposals

Winning grants and contracts is a highly competitive effort. The most frequently funded grant proposals are those where the author has paid scrupulous attention to the details and deadlines defined in the sponsoring agency's proposal guidelines.

The SJSU Research Foundation Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) partners with investigators in all aspects of proposal development and submission, whether the investigator is new to the grant proposal process or a seasoned investigator. The developing and submitting proposal phase of the research project life cycle includes concentration in four major areas:

Developing & Submitting Services

Our Pre-Award specialists assist principal investigators with:

  • interpreting agency's solicitation guidelines
  • budget development and preparation
  • reviewing a proposal narrative
  • coordination of required approvals
  • compliance and regulation
  • final quality assurance checks
  • proposal submission upon final approval

Pre-Award Phase Overview

The Pre-Award process starts when the principal investigator creates a project concept, consults with their chair and dean, the designated research development specialist, selects a suitable funding source, and notifies the assigned Pre-Award specialist.  

The Pre-Award process ends when the proposal is submitted and received by the funding agency.

First steps: Early Planning is Critical

We encourage principal investigators to contact the designated Research Development specialist and the designated Pre-Award specialist as soon as they decide to develop a proposal in response to an agency’s solicitation. Most proposals require several weeks or even months to prepare. Allow yourself and others involved in your research process adequate time to assist you in developing and submitting a quality proposal. 

Pre-Award Consulting

If you prefer to discuss your proposal plans in person or need assistance locating appropriate resources to get started, please contact us.

Other Steps & Resources