Office of Research and Sponsored Programs

Faculty Survey

St. Kate's Grant Institute:
January 12-14, 2010; Join us for a three day workshop designed for faculty and staff interested in pursuing grants. More »

St. Kate's Evaluation Institute:
June 2010; Join us next June for a two-day workshop designed for faculty and staff interested in learning more about project evaluation! More »

Getting Started-Internal Grants

There are a number of internal funding opportunities that support the continued growth of individuals as faculty and scholars. Internal funding may allow faculty and staff to pilot an idea or project or to spend time building community collaborations in preparation for external fund-seeking. The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs can help you identify a good fit for your project and can also help you think about ways an internally-funded project might position you to seek external funding.

STEP #1: Begin to Formulate Your Project

Outline your ideas.
Begin to develop your goals and objectives.
Speak with colleagues and potential community partners about possible collaborations or seek feedback regarding your ideas.
Consider how your ideas fit with the University’s mission and/or the Strategic Plan.
Consider whether your project is a one-time endeavor or something you would like to sustain (i.e. if your project is programmatic, how will you carry on after the grant funding ends?)
Consider which internal grant opportunity best aligns with your project.

STEP #2: Communicate with your Chair/Director
It is always a good idea to speak with your Chair/Director regarding your plans to seek internal funding, as many of the internal grant applications require a supporting statement from the Chair/Director. There is no other formal approval process required before seeking internal grants.

STEP #3: Meet with ORSP Staff

Although it is not a requirement, ORSP staff would be happy to assist you as you formulate your project and prepare your proposal. We recognize that this can sometimes be a daunting process, and we're here to help you through every stage! If you are considering an internal grant as the first step toward eventually seeking external funding, it is always useful to consult ORSP as you plan for the initial phases of your project.

STEP #4: Prepare your Proposal

Carefully review the application instructions before beginning to work on your proposal, taking particular note of any special requirements.

STEP #5: Develop Your Budget

ORSP is happy to help you in the development of your budget, and it is always a good idea to have ORSP review your budget prior to submission to make sure it complies with institutional policies.

STEP #6: Manage your Award

Should you receive a grant award, ORSP will guide you through the grant management process and provide budgetary assistance and oversight.

Visit Managing Your Award for more information on managing your award.

If your project does not receive funding upon first submission, don't be too discouraged. ORSP will help you revise, reframe and resubmit your proposal as needed.