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Preparing a Proposal
~ Checklist for Proposal Development & Submission ~

Checklist

Use this checklist as a plan of action for getting your proposal submitted. Please remember, no proposal may be submitted to an external agency unless this process is satisfactorily completed.

  1. Develop the project idea. Discuss your project concept with your department chair, dean’s office and the Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP).

  2. Contact OSP to conduct a funding agency search.

  3. After choosing an appropriate funding agency, contact OSP to obtain agency guidelines, contact agency program officers, determine strategies for meeting deadlines, discuss any electronic submission requirements.

  4. Determine whether or not the funding program requires matching funds and make appropriate contacts to secure matching commitment. Meet with OSP staff to start budget development discussions. See Cost Sharing Policy

  5. Prepare draft of proposal. Submit draft to OSP at least two week in advance of the deadline if typing and/or editing assistance is requested.

  6. Submit proposal to OSP one week prior to submission for preparation of the Internal Transmittal. Once the Internal Transmittal has been prepared, the Project Director must route it to all relevant parties for approval signatures.

  7. Deliver the completed proposal and signed Internal Transmittal to OSP for final approval.

  8. Proposals submitted via an electronic submission system must be made available in complete and final form to OSP at least 2 working days in advance of the agency's deadline.

  9. Coordinate with OSP, submission requirements required by the agency. Generally, OSP assumes responsibility for copying and mailing all applications. In addition, OSP will provide copies of your proposal to all signatories on the Internal Transmittal.

  10. Notify OSP immediately if contacted by the funding agency for further information, or to discuss a budget item.

 

Related Links
- Preparing a Proposal (Homepage)
- Commonly Needed Information for Proposal Preparation
- Sample Questions to Ask a Program Officer
- Indirect Cost Policy (opens in a new window)
- Cost Sharing Policy (pdf - opens in a new window)