Securing external funding from sponsors like the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Spencer Foundation or the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is vital for advancing research, career growth, and institutional impact. While some faculty may see funding as essential for tenure and promotion, others may not face the same pressures. However, the value of obtaining grants extends far beyond these milestones, offering significant benefits for both individual research and the wider academic community. Here are some important reasons to consider pursuing external funding: 

Enhance the quality of your research 
Grants provide the resources to expand the scope and impact of research. With funding, you can engage larger and more diverse participant groups, use advanced methodologies, and extend studies over longer periods. This enables more in-depth investigations, thorough testing of interventions, and the use of sophisticated analytical techniques. 

Assemble a skilled research team and develop a long-term research plan 
Grant support can alleviate logistical burdens such as buying specialized equipment, hiring research personnel, and allows you to build skilled research teams and focus on strategic research goals. It also offers a structured, long-term research plan shaped by peer review, helping to maximize your research impact. 

Attract graduate and postdoctoral talent 
Funding attracts motivated graduate students and postdoctoral researchers by offering financial support and extensive research opportunities. This enables them to concentrate on their skill development and contribute significantly to your projects, while also helping you shape the future generation of scientific talent. 

Foster collaborations 
External funding supports the development of valuable collaborations by providing resources for planning conferences, workshops, and networking events. These opportunities can foster new partnerships and interdisciplinary connections, enhancing the scope and impact of your research. 

Breaking the ‘First Grant’ Myth 
Many faculty worry that a lack of prior funding experience might hinder their success. In reality, many secure their first grant with guidance and persistence. Funders also have programs for early-career faculty applicants, such as the NSF CAREER and NIH K Awards. The process, while complex, becomes manageable with the right support. That’s where we come in. 

How Can CSBS Help?
CSBS offers comprehensive proposal development services, including: 

Identifying suitable funding opportunities 
Connecting you with potential collaborators 
Developing a detailed timeline and checklist 
Reviewing and providing feedback on your proposal 
Assisting with resubmissions and addressing reviewer comments 

Our goal is to simplify the grant application process so you can focus on impactful research. For more information, contact us at csbscience@illinois.edu. We look forward to supporting your next project.