Understanding Concept Papers

• A concept paper is a 2-5 page overview of a problem, proposed solution, and rationale.
• It provides visualization and expression of basic driving ideas in 4-5 pages.
• Serves as a prelude to a full paper such as thesis, program or project.
• Embodies ideas on a certain topic of interest.
• It is a summary of projects or issues.
• Reflects interests, experience, and expertise of the writer or organization.
• Usually serves the purpose of providing in-depth discussion of a topic with a strong position with the intention of obtaining funding from donors.
• Terms concept paper and proposals are often used interchangeably.
• A concept paper could discuss best practices, philosophies, and other issues requiring action.

Writing Concept Papers

• The introduction includes information about the funding agency.
• It demonstrates homework and understanding of the funding agency's mission and supported projects.
• Identifies your agency and how its missions align with the funding agency.
• Describes any partner agencies and their interest in the project.
• Next, describe the question, problem, or need (purpose) to be addressed.
• Provide supporting documentation for addressing the question, problem, or need.
• Include statistical data if available.
• Indicate why anyone should care about the issue
• The project description describes what your agency plans to do.
• It describes the unique approach, who will benefit and states basic goals, objectives, or research questions.
• A goal is a statement describing a broad or abstract intent, state, or condition.
• An objective is a statement of measurable outcomes that relate to the goal.
• Give an overview of your methodology.
• Describe how the project will be carried out and innovative approaches.
• Techniques, or processes to be used, ensuring goals, objectives, and methods are related.
• Include general timelines for accomplishments, anticipated benefits, and who benefits.

Writing Tips

• Be brief, concise, and clear; concept papers should not exceed five pages.
• Avoid detail overload, vague language, or uncertainty about goals.
• Be positive and definite; use "will be accomplished" instead of "may be accomplished".
• Avoid requesting money for "planning" unless it is the program's purpose.
• Funding agencies typically fund projects beyond the planning stage.
• Consider your audience; tailor language to scientists or generalists.
• Only include budgetary information if requested, otherwise, describe types of support needed.

Concept Paper Format

• Title
• Introduction
• Purpose
• Project Description
• Goals and Objectives/Research Questions
• Methodology and Timelines
• Benefits/Anticipated Outcomes
• Support Needed & Costs (if requested)
• Contact Information

More Writing Tips

• Appearance is important.
• Use a readable font size and standard margins.
• Check for spelling errors before submission.
• Pay attention to detail.
• Number all pages.
• Include your name and date in the header
• Include contact information.

Considerations for Selecting a Topic

• Personal interest/passion
• Importance/contribution to the field
• Newness/relevance
• Feasibility, time constraints, availability of subject, ethical constraints, and organizational support

Types of Academic Concept Papers

• Research concept paper
• Advertising concept paper
• Project concept paper.

Research Concept Paper

• Summary written by students embarking on research to gather and present preliminary ideas.
• Reviews a field of study, states a research question, identifies methods, and indicates the significance of research.
• Often includes a budget and timeline.
• It tells the reader what the research is, why it is important, and how it will be carried out.

Advertising Concept Paper (Creative Concept)

• A creative concept is an overarching “Big Idea" that captures audience interest.
• Influences emotional response and inspires taking action.
• It is a unifying theme that can be used across all campaign messages, calls to action, communication channels, and audiences.

Grant Project Concept Paper

• Brief, one or two-page paper prepared prior to submitting a full proposal.
• Used to interest potential funders/sponsors.
• Used to develop potential solutions or investigations into project ideas.
• Used to determine whether a project idea is fundable.