I don't get why none of the foundations I've written grants for in the last 2 years want to fund me. I try so hard. I get good results. I get a lot done for not a lot of money. I integrate science & art, am good at community organizing, & get science into places where there currently isn't much.
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a BIG hit, they already are
In the meantime, you can support the work we do (and it's A LOT of WORK) here 👇
https://givebutter.com/SupportSAS25
Or maybe they're just flooded with fifty bajillion applications.
you are a light in this world in very dark times.
correction: wish I couldn't imagine.
However, almost 30 years in my industry, including dealing with a lot of grant mechanisms, bureaucracy, and general money topics, have given me some ideas. Happy to share if interested.
- A lot of grants depend on arcane wording. At least in my sector with EU Horizon grants, there's professionals that do nothing but.
- Networking and PR are king. The key is being shameless without being perceived to be shameless.
- Sometimes shit's just unfair and irrational. Sucks.
- There's a fine line between outright corruption and being nice to someone.
- related: schmoozing is a fine art.
- learn how to stay in people's memory by reminding them nicely that you exist. There's a shitload of subtle, harmless, stupid sounding little psychological tricks. Some work sometimes.
- Don't underestimate conciseness (guilty) and UI/UX - simple shit like bullet points, paragraphs, bold keywords, and other things that make documents more navigable can help
- Proofread. An ex-boss once asked me to explain what I was trying to say...