ESC Nursing and Allied Professional Training grants: 10 top tips for enhancing funding success!

Abstract

As researchers and members of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), our mandate is to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD). To best achieve this, we need to advance science through engagement in cutting-edge, evidence-based 'funded' research studies. Nursing and Allied Professional Training grants of 25 000 Euros enable cardiovascular nurses and allied professionals to train in an ESC Member Country centre of excellence. These awards are an excellent opportunity to improve and broaden one's skills, horizons and network with colleagues and experts outside one's own country. Below are 10 essential tips for preparing training grant application documents. (1) As with all grants, comply with the submission guidelines fully. (2) Only complete applications will be considered-make sure you complete all requirements. (3) Understand the ESC and ACNAP vision and make sure your proposal is in tangent with key priorities. (4) Seek to collaborate with a research mentor who has demonstrated success with ESC grant applications to support the preparation of your application. (5) The feasibility and importance of the project with an assessment of the sustained benefits for local/global CVD reduction should be emphasized clearly-but remain realistic. (6) The candidate's profile will be assessed based on their optimal career stage and achievements so far-make sure you sell yourself appropriately. (7) The quality of the host institution and support they will provide for training is very important-have a clear justification and training plan for why you wish to go to the host institution and what they can offer. (8) In relation to points 2-4, detail how the grant will benefit your future career aspirations and development. (9) Present your application clearly and concisely-free of errors and jargon and with appropriate methodology explained. (10) Submit before the deadline, take a deep breath, and celebrate the 'small win' of submitting your application!