Cornell University Office of Sponsored Programs

Proposal Preparation

Completed grant proposals need to be provided to OSP five business days prior to the submission deadline.

Grant and contract officers (GCOs) assist researchers with proposal preparation by clarifying sponsors' submission procedures and interpreting university policies related to sponsored activities. Individuals are encouraged to consult their GCO at any time during proposal development. Assistance provided at an early stage can help to avoid problems that might result in a sponsor's rejection of a proposal or to resolve issues that could delay acceptance of an award. It is particularly important to notify OSP as early as possible when responding to detailed proposal solicitations.

Prior to submission to the sponsor, proposals are reviewed for conformance to university policy and sponsor guidelines.  Proposals are approved by the principal investigator(s) and the chairperson or director of the Cornell units involved in the project, and signed by an authorized university representative. Proposals from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) and the Geneva Experiment Station are submitted through the CALS Research Office; proposals from the College of Veterinary Medicine are submitted through the Veterinary College Research Office. All other proposals are submitted through OSP. In addition, some schools, colleges, and centers may require additional, internal proposal approval prior to submission to the sponsor. Your GCO can assist you in determining the necessary approvals.