Title

• Concise, keyword-rich title.

• Include field-specific terms (e.g., “AI-Driven” for tech grants, “Sustainability” for environmental projects).

Abstract / Executive Summary

• 200–300 words.

• Overview of problem, approach, expected outcomes.

• Hook the reader; emphasize novelty and impact.

Introduction

1. Problem Statement

2. Research Gap and Innovation

3. Objectives and Research Questions

• Quantify the issue (e.g., stats on climate impact or tech adoption).

• Highlight timeliness.

• State 2–4 focused research questions.

• Length: 500–1,000 words (about 10% of proposal).

• Cite 5–10 key sources.

Literature Review

1. Core Concepts and Theories

2. Recent Advances

3. Unresolved Challenges

• Synthesize 20–30 sources.

• Use a table to compare studies.

• Position your work as innovative.

• Length: 750–1,500 words (15%).

Proposed Methodology

1. Overall Design (Qualitative / Quantitative / Mixed)

2. Data Sources and Tools

3. Analytical Framework

4. Timeline and Milestones

5. Risk Mitigation

6. Ethical Considerations

• Detail phases (e.g., pilot study in Month 3).

• Justify tools (software, datasets).

• Include budget outline (important for grants).

• Address IRB/ethical issues.

• Length: 1,250–2,500 words (25%).

• Use a Gantt chart for timeline visuals.

Expected Outcomes and Impact

1. Anticipated Results

2. Broader Implications (Academic / Societal)

3. Dissemination Plan

• Specify measurable outputs (e.g., 2 peer-reviewed papers, 1 conference presentation).

• Tie to funding priorities or SDGs.

• Plan for publications, workshops, or outreach.

• Length: 750–1,500 words (15%).

Team and Resources

1. Principal Investigator Qualifications

2. Collaborators and Roles

3. Required Resources / Budget

• Highlight PI’s expertise (1–2 pages CV).

• Define collaborator contributions.

• Justify equipment, travel, or personnel costs.

• Length: 500–1,000 words (10%).

References

• 15–25 entries.

• Use consistent style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).

• Prioritize open-access and recent sources.

Appendices

A. Preliminary Data
B. Letters of Support
C. Supplementary Materials

• Graphs, pilot results, protocols.

• Keep under 5 pages; ensure relevance.

Length Guidance

• Grants: 5–15 pages (2,500–7,500 words).

• Conference proposals: 2–5 pages (1,000–2,500 words).

Usage

• Copy into Word/Google Docs, edit for your project, and export as .docx or .pdf.

Customization Tips

• Add “Interdisciplinary Integration” for cross-field projects.

• Add “Public Engagement” for community-focused grants.