Contacting the Program Officer
Why should you contact the Program Officer?
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To introduce yourself
To discuss your “idea” for the proposal
To make sure your idea fits in with their guidelines
They’re paid by federal dollars (your money) to help
They’re responsible for the proposal processes
Before you contact the Program Officer:
 Read the RFP!
 Read the application submission guide
 Review the application package
 Make a list of questions to ask
Contacting the Program Officer:
 Send them an email requesting them to schedule a phone appointment
 Give them a very brief description of who you are, which grant you’re applying for, and your
basic idea
What should you say?
 Ask them if they would be willing to review a draft research narrative, and if so, by when?
 Tell them your ideas and make sure it’s something that will fit in with their guidelines
Note: sometimes what the RFP doesn’t say is as important as what it does say