Sponsored Projects

Preparing a Proposal

The Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP) is the university’s authoritative agent for the submission of proposals and acceptance of awards on behalf of Western Illinois University. OSP verifies that commitments made on grants, contracts and agreements can be fulfilled, validates the accuracy of information provided on grant proposals or contract agreements, and certifies that all agreements conform to the government regulations, agency guidelines and University policies. In order to fulfill this responsibility and the help WIU prepare the best most competitive proposals, all sponsored project proposals for grants, contracts, and agreements must be
reviewed and approved by the Office of Sponsored Projects before submission to external sponsors.

OSP assists with a host of pre-award processes including Where to Find Funding, assistance with budget preparation, project/proposal development, cost share recommendations and submission of completed proposals. Additionally, OSP has created a Proposal Checklist that provides guidance on the steps of a proposal creation and submission. We encourage using this checklist when working through the proposal development and submission stage.

OSP can provide the highest level of service to faculty and staff when adequate lead time is given to review and approve proposals prior to submission. OSP frequently reviews and submits multiple different proposals with similar deadlines. Please contact OSP as soon as you know you are applying for funding so we can make certain the university guidelines are followed. A minimum of 2 weeks notice is required prior to the submission deadline.

Introduction to Federal Research Initiation Grants

Webinar: Thursday, May 16th, 2024 12:00 - 1:00pm CNT

Are you an early-career faculty member looking for funding? You may want to consider joining this webinar sponosred by McAllister & Quinn (M&Q) to learn about opportunities available to faculty members ready to get started on new and innovative research projects. McAllister & Quinn staff an dgrant consultants will review funding available from the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and other federal agencies, share insights on how to be competitive, including tips and tricks on how to prepare your proposal. Review the details here.