The Beef Cattle Research Council regularly opens calls for letters of intent (LOIs) for research and knowledge mobilization project proposals.
If you are considering submitting an LOI, here are five ways to help it stand out:
1. Focus on the Idea.
At this stage, it’s important to remember you’re not just writing for other researchers—you’re presenting your idea to the people who will ultimately benefit from the answers your project provides. Save the technical scientific methodology for the full proposal. While we still want to know what you will be doing, keep the focus on the bigger picture: What’s the problem you’re trying to solve? How will your project solve that problem? And how will the results be useful on farms and ranches? Make it clear how your work could help improve the profitability, sustainability or efficiency of beef producers.
2. Make Every Word Count
Space in an LOI is limited, so use it wisely. Avoid repeating the same text in multiple sections. Keep explanations short and to the point, and make sure every sentence adds value.
3. Connect the Dots for Producers
Even if you’re working on basic or early-stage research, help reviewers understand where it could lead. Will it contribute to healthier cattle, better grazing management, improved product quality, etc.? Outline the potential long-term benefits and why they matter to Canadian beef producers.
4. Collaborate When it Makes Sense
Producer-relevant research often benefits from multiple perspectives. If you’re working with other researchers, industry specialists or extension experts, include that in your LOI, and make it clear what each member is bringing to the team. Having a strong team can make projects more relevant and increase the chances of adoption.
5. Show How It Fits the Beef Research Strategy
The Canadian Beef Research and Technology Transfer Strategy outlines industry priorities for research and extension. Make sure your project is aligned with the outcomes asked for in the strategy and the call. Demonstrating alignment helps reviewers see where your work fits in the bigger picture for the industry.
As with all funding calls for proposals, there is often more good research submitted than there are dollars available, so having a strong LOI is a critical first step in the competitive process. Strong LOIs give reviewers a clear sense of the problem, the potential benefits for producers and how the project supports industry priorities. By focusing on clarity, relevance and alignment, you can increase the chances of your idea moving forward to the full proposal stage.