Funding Proposal Resources

Tips for Crafting a Strong Proposal for Funding

A funding proposal is something like a sales document. In writing your proposal, the goal is to convince the reviewers how the proposed internship will fulfill your academic requirements, facilitate professional development, and why it’s a good fit for the mission of their particular funding. You will also need to convey how you are qualified to deliver the set goals of the internship. Successful proposals are concise and capture the reviewer’s attention.

While this may seem daunting, don’t worry! Many resources are available and OGPH staff are available by appointment and during workshops to review draft proposals and provide suggestions for improvement. You also have access to the Michigan Public Health and Campus writing resources. 

All students applying for funding from the Office of Global Public Health must attend one of the Global Public Health Funding Proposal Workshops. We find that student proposals are stronger and more effective when candidates receive guidance from our office during the initial proposal writing process.

Workshop offerings in 2024-25: REGISTER

top 10 tips for creating a strong funding proposal: 

Partner with known, reputable organizations, especially those with existing relationships with the University of Michigan or a strong track record in public health.

Explain your specific responsibilities and how they align with your academic, professional, and organizational goals.

Identify qualified supervisors or mentors who can provide consistent guidance throughout the internship.

Select locations with reasonable safety expectations and outline contingency plans if needed.

Showcase how the experience will develop your skills and offer meaningful intercultural learning.

Provide a realistic and well-justified budget that demonstrates efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Highlight language proficiency, global health coursework, and experiences that make you a strong candidate.

Explain how the internship will support your career goals, develop competencies, and contribute to personal growth.

Capture the reviewer’s attention early with a clear and compelling summary of your proposal.

Review past proposals, consult OGPH staff, and incorporate feedback to strengthen your application.

Proposal Examples and Connecting with Past Interns

Students are encouraged to attend the annual Global Health Poster Session showcasing students who received OGPH funding for their internships the prior summer. The poster session is typically on the last Friday in January.  Examples of past projects are also showcased on our Student Field Experience pages.

Review examples of past student proposal submissions. These are well formatted and strong proposals that you may use as a guide when developing your own proposal.

Planning your Internship: Helpful Questions to Ask

Many global public health internships are initiated through networking rather than applying to a pre-defined position. This provides interns with the opportunity to customize the experience to meet learning goals and the current needs of the partner organization. View questions that may help guide you in defining and developing your global internship.