Evidence suggests that the majority of funded proposals involved contact with the program officers at the funding agency
Program staff influence and guide decisions
- In the business of making investments
- Can guide applicants to more suitable funding opportunity or agency
- Can be incredible resources both in terms of information but also proposal review and award management
Contacting the program officer/building the relationship
- “What to Say—and Not Say—to Program Officers”
- "Can We Talk? Contacting Program Officers"
- “Communicating with Funders and Program Officers”
Why make contact?
- Pre-proposal communication helps to establish a relationship with the sponsor.
- The program officer's immediate response to the project is a good predictor (although not a guarantee) of success. Confirming if a proposed idea fits with the program's objectives is especially important. Many proposals are rejected because they do not align with program objectives.
Note: Before contacting a foundation, work with Syracuse University Foundation Relations.