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How to translate complex science into winning grant proposals

academic funding grant application science tips and tricks Aug 04, 2025
How to translate complex science into winning grant proposals

You know your research is groundbreaking. Your peers know it’s groundbreaking. But do the grant reviewers know?

Many strong applications fail because the science isn’t communicated clearly. Reviewers often come from a range of backgrounds. If they can’t quickly understand the significance of your project, they won’t fund it.

At Straight Up, we help researchers and businesses turn complex ideas into proposals that reviewers can understand—and want to support. Here’s how you can do the same.

 

Start with why

Before you explain what you’re doing or how you’re doing it, lead with why it matters.

Funders care about the bigger picture. Is your project solving a critical problem? Does it support a national priority or address an industry gap? Set the context first, then dive into the details.

 

Use plain English

Grant proposals are not academic papers. You don’t need to simplify the science, but you do need to make it easy to understand.

Avoid jargon. Define technical terms the first time you use them. Use short sentences where possible. The goal isn’t to impress with complexity—it’s to connect with clarity.

 

Tell a clear story

Strong proposals read like a narrative:

  • There’s a problem.

  • You have the solution.

  • The outcome makes an impact.

This structure keeps reviewers engaged and makes your argument easy to follow.

 

Be selective with evidence

Include evidence, but only the evidence that matters. Too much technical detail can overwhelm and dilute your message. Use data and examples strategically to strengthen your case.

 

Edit for impact

Writing is only half the battle. Editing is where you craft clarity. Step away, then return to your draft with fresh eyes. Read it as if you were the reviewer. Better yet, ask someone outside your field to read it. If they get it, you’ve nailed it.

 

How Straight Up can help

We’ve spent years translating complex research into proposals that win funding. From structuring your story to refining your language, we know how to make your application stand out.

 

Final thoughts

Your science is brilliant. Make sure your proposal shows it.

👉 Book a consultation to turn your next application into a success story.

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