The first edition was published in 2018. The substantially revised second edition was published in 2027. It includes:additional writing promptsexercises, and practical toolsupdated guidance on finding appropriate grantsexpanded coverage of data management and other technical aspects of proposal preparationa detailed sample budget and budget justificationadditional perspectives from program officersguidance for using generative AI in proposal developmentdiscussions about responding to precarity in the research funding environment.

The book focuses on the creative arts, humanities, social sciences, and education (CASSHE) disciplines. Many chapters are also useful for scholars working on interdisciplinary projects that involve these fields. The book addresses individual fellowships, research grants, collaborative projects, public scholarship, and other forms of sponsored scholarly and creative activity.

The book is intended for graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, faculty members at all career stages, academic artists, research development professionals, research administrators, and others who help Creative Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Education (CASSHE) scholars prepare grant and fellowship applications. It is suitable both for first-time proposal writers and for experienced applicants seeking a more systematic approach.

Yes. Content for creative arts is integrated throughout the second edition including arts-specific funding resources, examples from successful arts proposals, and resources related to arts-relevant proposal components, such as artist statements. It also includes two “Program Officer Viewpoint” essays focused on arts funders.

Yes. Research development professionals can use the book when advising applicants, reviewing narratives, leading workshops, organizing writing groups, or developing institutional proposal-support programs. Research administrators may also find it helpful for understanding the intellectual and writing process that takes place alongside the administrative preparation of an application.

Most of the agencies, terminology, and administrative examples are drawn from the United States. However, the proposal-planning, writing, collaboration, and review strategies can be adapted to international funding environments because writing a persuasive proposal is a skill that translates universally. Readers outside the United States can use the book alongside the agency guidelines and institutional procedures that apply in their own countries and institutions.

No, it does not include a funding database or inventory. However, the book identifies major categories of funding, illustrates sample funding opportunities appropriate across career stages, and explains best practices for conducting funding searches.

No. Because of the volume and project-specific nature of proposal inquiries, the authors do not provide individualized proposal advice or review. However, readers are welcome to submit general questions about the book, website, exercises, or workshops. The authors can also suggest trusted research development consultants who provide proposal review and feedback services. Please use the [contact form] for these queries.