Clinical Guides: Research and Grant Proposals: Finding Grants

A grant is a sum of money awarded by a funding body to support research, projects, or initiatives. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, but they come with specific requirements, such as progress reporting and knowledge dissemination.

Why is it important choose the right grant

Selecting the right grant is crucial to ensuring your research receives adequate funding, aligns with funder priorities, and has the best chance of success. Applying for a grant that isn’t a good fit can waste time, reduce your chances of securing funding, and divert resources away from more suitable opportunities.

How to choose the right grant

Ensure your research questions, methodology, and impact align with the grant’s objectives.
Review funder requirements, including career stage, research focus, and institutional affiliation.
Ensure the grant provides sufficient resources for your research needs.
Look at previously funded projects to see if your research aligns with typical awardees.
Seek advice from experienced colleagues.

Example

Dr. Lee, an early-career researcher studying nutrition and chronic disease in Indigenous populations, wants to apply for funding. She identifies two options: The NHMRC Ideas Grant (focused on innovative health research) and a small community health grant for pilot projects.
After reviewing both grants, she finds that the NHMRC Ideas Grant is a better fit because it offers more funding, aligns with her research aims, and supports early-career researchers.