Campus application requirements vary from competition to competition. When preparing a campus application, please reference the CalMessage announcement and the instructions in our InfoReady submission portal for the specific opportunity. In addition to following the instructions in the campus announcement, VCRO strongly recommends that prospective applicants carefully review the full program solicitation and, if available, any additional information on the sponsor’s website that gives insight about the sponsor’s priorities and preferences, including past funded projects.
Most limited submission opportunities require a summary of the proposed project (often limited to 2 pages). When applicable, applicants should ensure the project summary:
Can be understood by nonspecialists.
VCRO determines review committee members based on the concept papers submitted and the specific program. Committees often include individuals familiar with the sponsor and its review process but they come from a range of research backgrounds. Because of this, applicants should:
- Avoid undefined, field-specific jargon.
- Use clear, concise, and persuasive language to explain your idea.
- Make sure your proposal can be understood by those outside your discipline.
Addresses the goals and funding priorities of the sponsor.
The campus review committee’s primary goal is to select proposals that are most likely to succeed if they are selected to submit to the sponsor. Make it easy for reviewers to understand:
- Why your project is a strong fit for the sponsor and this specific opportunity.
- How your proposal aligns with the stated goals, priorities, and eligibility requirements outlined in the funding announcement.
When review criteria are published by the sponsor, address each one clearly in your application.
Explains the importance and impact of the research.
Make the significance of your project obvious, especially to reviewers outside your field:
- Clearly define the problem your research addresses.
- Provide context and background to help nonspecialists understand the significance and state of the field.
- Emphasize the potential impact of your research on your field and beyond.
Presents clear goals and a feasible plan.
A strong proposal doesn’t just communicate a great idea, it shows you have a clear, realistic path to achieving it. Reviewers need to see that your project is well-structured, methodologically sound, and likely to succeed. Campus applications should:
- Include specific research goals and objectives.
- Describe appropriate, well-thought-out methods that show your project is feasible.
- Identify potential challenges and how you will address them.
- Instill confidence that you and your team can successfully carry out the proposed work.
Being aware of common pitfalls in campus applications can strengthen your submission. Frequently cited issues from limited submissions review committees include poor fit with the opportunity, questions about feasibility, and a lack of a clear, compelling big picture. Visit our Review Feedback Page to explore the common types of review comments and how applicants can address them.
Looking for more advice on proposal writing?
Review BRDO’s General Proposal Advice for tips for creating a competitive research grant proposal.
Visit BRDO’s page on Scientific Writing for resources for clear and powerful writing.