I-Grants Frequently Asked Questions

What are I-Grants?

I-Grants are funding mechanisms supported by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin System, and other University of Wisconsin institutions.  These funding mechanisms provide support to scholars in all stages of their careers and often serve as a critical source of support for key individual, department/unit priorities, college/division strategies, and institutional initiatives. 

How do I gain proposal development skills before I pursue external funding?

Faculty and staff with little or no grant experience are encouraged to begin with University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and/or University of Wisconsin System grant programs. While still competitive, the rate of success is typically higher than federal grant programs and provides PIs with an excellent opportunity to learn proposal mechanics that can be used for a larger proposal. Additionally, PIs are encouraged to map out a potential funding strategy early, in order to maximize efforts early. For instance, a PI interested in a National Science Foundation Research in Undergraduate Institutions proposal submission should likely begin with University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Undergraduate Research Grants to generate pilot data for a larger study AND demonstrate experience and commitment to engaging undergraduate students in meaningful research experiences. 

I have an idea for a project that aligns with several I-Grants. Where do I begin?

First, carefully review each Request for Proposals to determine which program is the best fit for your project.  If you need additional feedback or would like to develop a more formal grantseeking plan, please contact Denise Ehlen, Director of Research and Sponsored Programs (ehlend@uww.edu, x5212). 

When should a faculty member begin seeking supplemental support for a sabbatical?

In the spring and early summer prior to the application.  For example, a faculty member that plans to submit a proposal to the fall 2012 Faculty Sabbatical Program deadline (for a 2013-2014 sabbatical) should begin identifying supplemental sources of salary support in spring and early summer 2012.  Many applications that would support a sabbatical in the following academic year must be submitted PRIOR to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Faculty Sabbatical deadline.  Faculty interested in seeking supplemental salary support for an academic year faculty may contact the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs to identify potential fellowship opportunities and to develop a grantseeking plan.