A lot can be learned from writing program grants

The funding climate right now is difficult not only for researchers, but also for nonprofits and community organizations.  Funders of community projects are focusing more closely on the potential for a project to continue to make an impact after the money runs out.  In other words, when developing grant proposals for community projects, sustainability is key.  The traditional way of thinking about research proposals is to write a project that will start and finish within the timeframe provided, provide something to publish, and contribute in a meaningful way to the body of knowledge that exists about a topic.  However, there is something to be said about the sustainability of a research program.  Will your project be a "one and done" kind of thing, where you will complete the project and then move on to something else?  Or will it be one piece in an overall plan that will continue to delve deeper beyond the question posed in your hypothesis?  Considering the difficulty that exists in getting funded right now, it is worth it to at least consider describing the possibility for a project to contribute to further knowledge over time.  This type of thinking may help you to show the significance and impact of your project to reviewers. 

What's in a name...of a file?

Yes, some of us do some very quirky things when it comes to naming documents that we are working on.  This includes me, as I have been known to name versions of files according to my level of aggravation (such as grant_proposal_X_revisedhopefullyforthelastdarntime).  When it comes to the SF424 application package, however, what you name your files may result in errors or outright rejection of your application.  Naming one file with a title that includes special characters such as ", +, or &, or my personal favorite, putting getmoney$ at the end of every document title, may prevent your application from passing validation.  Prevent these headaches and be kind to your research administrator by giving your documents easy titles.  Including the PI's name in the title of each document can also help to prevent confusion if you work in a busy department that may have multiple applications going in for the same opportunity.  Naming a grant file is like naming a baby - choose wisely or you may suffer long-term consequences!