Three ways in which you are sabotaging yourself when seeking funding for your health research project

Navigating the landscape of funding for health research can often feel like an uphill battle filled with frustration and uncertainty. As a researcher, you may find yourself struggling with the weight of missed opportunities and the anxiety of potential rejection.

Have you ever poured countless hours into crafting a meticulous proposal, only to find out later that it didn’t align with the funding call? That painful disappointment of hearing "no" can be disheartening, especially when you know that securing EU funding could be the key to advancing your critical work.

The stakes are high, and the pressure can be overwhelming and you cannot afford wasting your time.

Challenges may be hiding in the shadows of your grant-seeking efforts, causing you to inadvertently sabotage your chances of success.

In this blog post, I will discuss three self-sabotaging behaviors that may be undermining your funding applications even before you start writing your proposal. By becoming aware of these pitfalls, you can invest your time wisely and increase your likelihood of success.

1. Ignoring the specific features and priorities of the funding scheme

Each EU funding program comes with its unique set of priorities and requirements. Understanding the nuances of what each program seeks can significantly enhance your chances of success. For instance, if your proposal addresses challenges within the realm of health research, it is crucial to align with funding programs that prioritize innovation in that sector. Conversely, if your project leans towards educational goals, you might find more favorable outcomes in programs tailored for education, such as Erasmus Plus. Tailoring your approach is essential and can set the stage for a successful application. Sounds trivial? Read further, especially point 3 below.

2. Underestimating the evaluation criteria

Every funding opportunity has specific evaluation criteria that dictate how proposals are assessed. Failing to grasp these criteria can result in a misaligned submission that doesn't resonate with reviewers. Take the time to familiarise yourself with how your application will be evaluated; this knowledge allows you to strategically tailor your submission to meet those benchmarks. By aligning your proposal with the evaluation criteria, you can significantly enhance its appeal and relevance before you even begin writing.

3. Not dedicating enough time to explore your project’s impact and relevance

The importance of clearly articulating the expected real-world impact of your research cannot be overstated. Reviewers are looking for evidence of how your project supports EU’s overarching strategic goals and aligns with program priorities. When you can effectively convey the significance of your work and its relevance to current societal challenges, your proposal stands out as valuable and necessary. Take your time to deeply understand how your project will make a tangible difference. This analysis will provide you with valuable information on the funding programme that is suitable for your idea.

By recognizing and addressing these often-overlooked self-sabotaging behaviors, you can position your health research for the best possible chance of success in securing Horizon Europe funding. The grant-seeking process doesn't have to feel like a game of chance; with a strategic approach, you can turn the odds in your favor. Empower yourself with knowledge, focus your efforts, and watch your proposals transform into compelling applications that resonate with funding bodies.

Image by Ibrahim Rifath on Unsplash