Funding Proposal

Funding Proposal

Trials are typically a significant financial commitment, and securing funding can be a lengthy and challenging process. Major funders need assurance that the proposed research is important, meets a clear need, is well-designed, feasible, scientifically sound, and offers good value for money. The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) webpages provide guidance on considerations before you apply (including eligibility and funding opportunities) and further guidance on planning a funding application. 

The time needed to secure funding should be factored into the wider planning and development of the trial. Many funders, including the NIHR, publish timetables for funding opportunities to help researchers plan effectively. Before applying, it is important to review the NIHR’s eligibility requirements for the specific funding scheme. 

Funders often require researchers to demonstrate their commitment to public involvement. The NIHR’s payment guidance is a valuable resource for planning and budgeting for the cost of public involvement as part of the funding application. In addition, the NIHR Research Support Service may assist with PPI activities at the proposal stage. Including a plain English summary in the application is also key to making the funding proposal accessible to the general public.

Many funders, such as the Medical Research Council (MRC), provide guidance (.PDF) summarising good practice principles for sharing individual participant data from publicly funded clinical trials. Guidance on costing data management activities for research is also available.

Further Reading

• NIHR: Funding programmes.
• NIHR Funding Applications Guidance: Domestic and global Research.
• UK Research and Innovation: Guidance for peer reviewers.
• UK Research and Innovation (UKRI): Funding webpage.
• Wellcome Trust: Funding webpage.
• Protocol Development station.