OWDS Umudike - Workshop on Research Grant Writing

The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) Umudike Branch recently held a capacity-building workshop titled “Effective Grantsmanship: Strategies for Developing and Writing Competitive Research Grant Proposals.” The session was designed to equip members with practical skills for securing research funding and strengthening their capacity to design impactful, sustainable projects.

Dr. Charles Nkwoala, the facilitator, defined a research grant as a non-repayable financial award given to individuals or organizations to conduct specific research projects. These awards are based on merit through a competitive application process and are typically funded by government agencies, private foundations, or corporations. According to him, the essence of every grant is to solve a problem and advance scientific and societal development.

Dr. Nkwoala explained that research grants can be classified into three main types:

Competitive Grants, Non-Competitive/Predetermined Grants and Continuation or Renewal Grants

He emphasized the three core components of effective grantsmanship — the “3 Cs”:

1. Concept: Developing a clear, innovative idea that addresses a pressing problem.
2. Company: Assembling a competent and multidisciplinary team.
3. Content: Crafting a well-structured and compelling proposal.

The presentation also outlined key steps in developing and writing competitive grant proposals, including: Understanding funders and their guidelines, concept development, forming the grant writing team, writing the proposal, developing a realistic budget, creating an evaluation and sustainability plan, Conducting final review and submission. 

Participants were reminded that a strong grant writing team should include roles such as:

• Principal Investigator/Project Lead – oversees project vision and implementation
• Grant Writer – coordinates proposal drafting
• Subject Matter Experts – provide technical insights
• Finance/Budget Officer – ensures accurate costing and compliance
• Partners/Collaborators – NGOs, universities, or community groups
• Evaluator – develops the monitoring and evaluation framework

The importance of teamwork, communication, and the use of collaborative tools (such as Google Docs, Trello, or MS Teams) was also stressed.

Dr. Nkwoala concluded with insights on developing a sustainability plan, noting that funders look for assurance that project results will continue after the grant ends. A good sustainability plan builds donor confidence, promotes local ownership, ensures long-term impact, and diversifies funding sources.

The workshop highlighted OWSD Umudike Branch’s continued commitment to empowering its members with knowledge and skills that enhance research excellence, collaboration, and competitiveness in global scientific funding opportunities.