Case Name: Monique Aster, PhD
Scenario, Part 4: Monique submitted a Phase I SBIR proposal, which was not scored, meaning it was considered to be in the lower half of the proposals being reviewed. She found this information on eRA a few days after the scientific review committee met. She contacted her mentor, entrepreneur Mandy Jones, PhD, to let her know the news and get advice.
Mandy, my proposal didn’t even get scored by the NIH review panel. I’m so disappointed!
I’m sorry to hear it, but please don’t take that as a failure. Keep in mind that about half of the proposals do not get scored. It’s hard news for scientists who are used to being at the top of their class all their lives. The competition for SBIR funds is pretty competitive.
Thanks for helping to put it in perspective. But still, all that work. It feels like it was for nothing.
Even though they did not score or discuss your proposal, it still got a thorough review. The written reviews are very useful. You can use that review to improve your plans and determine whether you should resubmit your proposal. Resubmissions have a higher rate of funding.
That’s good to know.
I’d be happy to look at their comments when you get your summary statement and help you think about how to address the reviewers’ concerns.
Thank you!
I recommend contacting your program officer. You will find their name on the summary statement. You can ask what they think about your resubmitting.
Okay, I will do that. Thanks.
More from Monique:
Motivations for Starting a Business
Skills Needed to Start a Business
Group Discussion: Women Life Scientists on Assertiveness
Case Example: Before Starting an SBIR Proposal
SBIR/STTR Grants
Discussion Group: Women Scientists on Barriers, Bias, and Unfair Treatment
Registrations Required for Government Funding
Case Example: Getting Started with an NIH SBIR
