Ask the expert: Writing winning grant proposals

Ask the Expert is our new feature that brings you insights straight from leading scientists in diverse research fields. Every edition will feature interviews with experts who offer their knowledge, actionable tips, and personal stories. In this inaugural edition, we spoke with Dr. JPR Ochieng Odero about what makes a successful grant proposal.

Ochieng Odero is a research entomologist with a PhD and extensive experience in Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I) for Research and Development (R&D) in Africa. Since 2008, he has led three research funding facilities, advocating for research-driven policy and practice while mentoring scientists on resource mobilisation. He is also working to strengthen Science Granting Councils’ fundraising capacities.

We discussed key challenges in grant writing and what makes proposals stand out. He lets us know about his hobby and how it helps enhance his work.

Challenges in grant funding for African researchers

According to Dr. Odero, mobilizing resources is essential to research. He says many people on the continent still struggle to find and maintain funding for scientific research. Dr. Odero say the majority of African nations still barely devote 0.42 to 2 percent of their GDP on research and development, despite the African Union’s repeated pledges to the cause.

Because of this ongoing underinvestment, researchers are forced to rely more on outside funds and have less options for domestic funding.

According to Dr. Odero, the grant landscape is far from straightforward—plagued by bureaucratic red tape, protracted application processes, and stringent criteria that often disadvantage local scientists. He says visibility is another significant obstacle that researchers must overcome.

Dr. Ochieng tells us that low citation rates and limited global recognition are still problems facing African science and this affects the impact of published work and diminishes prospects for international collaboration. He tells us many researchers are navigating these challenges without adequate training in grant writing, financial management, or project administration.

Writing an outstanding grant proposal

Dr. Odero says straightforward communication and strategic thinking will produce a winning proposal. He says it is important to have a compelling story that identifies the problem, shows the significance, and shows how an idea provides a unique solution.

He says it is important to clearly demonstrate how an idea aligns with the goals and purpose of the donor. This, he says, requires research into what they care about. He believes that clearly stated goals and results cannot be compromised. Make use of SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. 

Additionally, he says always specify the expected impact and success metrics. Dr. Odero says budgeting is a critical component of proposal writing. He says a budget must be transparent and include cost breakdowns and financial stewardship plans

Beyond research – having hobbies

Dr. Odero tells us going to the theatre, writing and beekeeping provide a creative release outside of research. These hobbies, he says, help him de-stress and refresh his mind.

He thinks for long-term success and wellness, it is essential to have interests outside of study. Participating in various hobbies gives researchers a mental break that enables them to return to their job with fresh perspective and creativity, he says.

Please stay tuned for more insights into our upcoming ‘Ask the expert’ stories!

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In our next session, Dr. Ochieng Odero will share essential resource tools for researchers.

This interview was conducted by Jackie Opara.

Published on 9 April 2025.