You know exactly how important your research is. Now let's make sure your reviewers see it too.
Get the NIH R01 grant funding your research deserves
Start running the lab you’ve always dreamed of without burning hours writing grants that go nowhere, perpetual revision loops, or second-guessing your approach. Because when you nail how to communicate the value of your work? That R01 is yours.
4 out of every 5 NIH R01 applications get rejected (success rates have hovered around 20% for more than a decade).
But our clients and students consistently beat those odds.
How?
Because great science + the right communication strategy = funded research
We've cracked the code for turning brilliant research into fundable R01 grants – without the binge-writing or burnout that usually comes with it.
And here's why you're perfectly positioned to join them:
Your deep scientific expertise combined with your human understanding of what makes your research important? That's your hidden advantage. You just need a proven system to showcase it to reviewers.
The Hard Truth
About R01 Funding
If you’re an early-stage investigator with dreams of building a research career doing the work you love, you know this to be true:
An R01 is the gold standard grant...
and your golden ticket to a serious research career
Getting an R01 means you’ll be able to:
Keep your research program afloat and climb the promotion & tenure ladder
Make a real, tangible difference in the world by doing the type of research that will impact human health
Stop feeling like you have to prove the worth of your work at every step
Do the research you love and do it well—because to truly make an impact you can’t cobble together funding from a handful of smaller grants, you need R01-level funding
Breathe easy for a while, knowing you’ve secured research funding (and salary support) for a few years
And on top of all that, what an R01 grant really means is freedom.
The freedom to do the research you want.
Go to the conferences you want.
Build the team that you want.
An R01 gives you the ability to do your science the way you want to do it.
So that you can make a major contribution to your field.
Because, like it or not, NIH R01 grants are the only real currency that’s valued at your institution.
With one, you’re eligible for tenure.
Without one, you can’t do the work you love (and you might also be out of a job).
The problem is, writing a fundable R01 proposal feels like a far-off dream…
You want to write a winning R01. But right now? Your schedule's bursting.
→ You're juggling teaching, students, and research while that tenure clock keeps ticking
→ You're splitting time between clinic hours and patient care, wondering how to fit grant writing in
→ Or maybe you’re a first time R01 grant writer, and everyone acts like you should just *know* how to write these grants
Sound familiar?
And if you’re being honest, there’s hardly any ‘you’ left at the end of the day.
After hours of teaching, meetings, and what feels like MILLIONS of emails, the mental motivation to sit down & write feels like it’s never been farther away.
When you do finally manage to carve out time to write, you find yourself in a neverending loop of uncertainty.
You know this proposal could make or break your research career
Which makes you want to get every word perfect
Which makes you question every single decision
Which leads to procrastination
Which adds even more paralyzing pressure to “get it right”
Not because you’re not capable
Not because your research isn’t important enough
Not because you don’t want it badly enough
But because an R01 isn't just another grant. It's a different league entirely.
But here’s the real problem
You’re trying to figure out the unwritten rules of R01 success through trial and error. Something no researcher can afford to do.
Which leaves you scratching your head wondering:
“If grant writing is such a crucial skill for researchers, why didn’t anyone teach me how to deal with all this?”
And the loop continues and your R01 proposal keeps getting pushed back…
HERE’S WHAT I’VE LEARNED AFTER HELPING RESEARCHERS SECURE MORE THAN $75 MILLION IN FUNDING:
There is a way to write grant applications that makes your reviewer sit up and take notice.
One that transforms your scientific brilliance into fundable proposals, without the years of trial and error most researchers unnecessarily endure.
And the funny thing is, the secret to writing a persuasive proposal you can be proud of is based on acknowledging this simple little fact…
What makes it so hard for you to sit down and write your R01 is the same thing that makes it so difficult for your reviewer to understand why yours is the research project they should get excited about:
You’re both busy human beings, living busy human lives. You don’t get to write your grant in a vacuum.
So even though your lab is on the line without this funding, it’s hard to take time away from other aspects of your job (like actually doing the research, writing the manuscripts and teaching or seeing patients) because they’re all critical to your success.
You try to stick to a schedule, but with so many different plates spinning in the air, your days get easily derailed—and then there’s the perfectionism that pops up as soon as you try to start putting your thoughts on paper.
You need a proven, easy-to-implement system that will keep you on track and help you manage your time so you can write grants without burnout – or dropping every single other responsibility – before the submission cycle’s over.
A step-by-step process that'll keep you on track – even when it gets hard – so that you can produce a grant you’re proud of.
Meanwhile, your reviewer’s a human too... (yup, even Reviewer #2)
A human who sees your grant as just another application in a huge pile of promising proposals they have to get through before bed.
A human who’s volunteered to review grant proposals in their not-so-spare time, and who, by the very nature of their task, will have to disappoint at least 80% of the researchers whose work they hold in their hands.
So you need to acknowledge your reviewer by making your research idea as easy as possible for them to understand.
YOU NEED TO MAKE IT CRYSTAL CLEAR
...why your research is worthwhile
...why your team can be trusted with the funding
...what makes your project feasible
They want you to overcome their objections.
They’re looking for a compelling story behind the science.
This is not about “dumbing down”, “spinning”, or “selling” your science. (Gross.)
It’s about getting inside your reviewer’s head and understanding the context in which they’re reading your grant, the proof they need to see, the words you can use to make it clear how important your research is so they can feel just as excited about your work as you do!
The thing is, you and your reviewer have the same goals:
Both of you are committed to moving your field forward.
And both of you want to see important work get done.
But to write a competitive R01 application that grabs your reviewer’s attention, you need a structure (that tells you what to write, in what order) so that writing this grant won't take over your life.
SO THAT YOU CAN…
Create a grant-writing strategy,
Plan the writing process,
Actually craft a compelling argument for funding your research—with your human reviewer in mind,
Get constructive feedback from the right people, and
Pull it all together, polished and ready to submit on time.
Believe it or not, your R01 funding goals are closer than you think…
Your deep understanding of your research combined with knowing how to communicate that passion to another human being? That's your superpower.
Because when you learn to share your vision in a way that connects human to human, you don't just get funding—you get champions for your work.
Let us show you how…
INTRODUCING…
The only course that walks you through the grant-writing process,
step by step, so that you can prepare a clear and persuasive NIH R01 application and learn the skills, strategies and writing techniques that’ll make it easier every time.
On top of creating a schedule you can actually stick to, you’ll learn the exact strategies and grant writing frameworks we use to help our 1:1 clients produce winning R01 proposals.
I’m Sarah Dobson.
I teach early-career researchers how to get funded at NIH.
Since 2018, my team and I have helped clients bring in more than $75 Million in NIH funding.
Before that, I submitted my own grants - and was successfully funded - in research grant competitions with success rates of less than 15%
I’ve taught grant-writing skills online & in-person to more than 5000 researchers.
And I’ve helped my clients submit successful grants across multiple funding agencies, fields of study and specialties—the techniques I teach are area-agnostic and proven to work.
All of which goes to say...
I know what it takes to get your reviewers’ attention and persuade them your grant’s worth funding.
And I’m teaching you everything I know inside this step-by-step course. In fact, it’s the exact same course that I use to train my editors—who have an 80% funding success rate on NIH resubmissions.
TRUSTED BY
The Grant Funding Formula® gives you a practical, step-by-step process for writing a competitive NIH R01 grant proposal.
So you can maximize your chances of receiving research funding…
And minimize the hours you spend crying in the shower.
Here’s what busy researchers like you have said about my writing workshops & courses:
“Sarah makes you do the work, not the reviewer.”
“So often, the really important information is buried deep in the grant because we don't really know what we're doing, on some level, and it comes out in the grant.
Sarah makes you really think through what you want to do. She makes you do the work, not the reviewer.
Sarah’s training offers a clear, focused approach, and she provides a framework to help you do what you need to do to get the reviewer/reviewers interested in your project.”
– PhD, Vanderbilt University
“The most comprehensive grant training I've been through
"
“At my institution junior faculty get bits and pieces of advice from various mentors. Sarah's lessons are a treasure trove.
Your course is the most comprehensive grant writing one I have been through."
– MD, PHD Johns Hopkins University
“There is no doubt in my mind that Problem, Gap, Hook, Solution works
"
"I signed up after a rough slump of many R01 submissions (and resubmission) gone unfunded or undiscussed. After taking your class I submitted two major grants to NIH, and both just got funded (about $10 million total spread over 5 years). There is no doubt in my mind that Problem, Gap, Hook, Solution works (in addition to everything else I learned). I cannot thank you enough for the positive impact that you have made to my career.”
– PhD, Pennington Biomedical Research Center (LSU)
The Grant Funding Formula® is a practical, step-by-step breakdown of everything that goes into writing a competitive NIH R01 grant.
With fillable grant writing templates & video tutorials you can re-watch again and again, so you have clear guidelines to follow every time you write a grant.
Which means, once you’ve cracked The Grant Funding Formula®…
You can breathe a little easier, knowing that you’ve ticked an important box for tenure, your lab can continue to operate, and you won’t have to make that mid-life career change after all.
You have confirmation that you are not an imposter. That your good ideas are worth pursuing. That the hours, days, months, years you’ve spent designing, performing, and writing about your experiments weren't in vain.
On top of which...
You have the freedom and independence that come with knowing, when you inevitably need funding for your next brilliant idea, you can write a clear and persuasive grant to make that happen.
And to top it all off, you get to become the go-to grant expert in your department—the one who knows how to improve any application by making its argument easy for the reviewer to understand.
We both know why this process isn’t easy:
Nobody taught you how to do this!
Which is BONKERS. Because the ability to get your research funded is critical to your career.
Let's be real: Getting an R01 means freedom and independence to pursue your research vision. Not getting one? It could mean losing your job. And that kind of pressure can be absolutely paralyzing.
You need this funding to support the people who work in your lab, to make the actual research happen, and to pay your own salary.
The pressure is on. And the stakes couldn’t be higher.
That's why you deserve a course that can teach you both the grant-writing skills and the sustainable writing practices you need to put them to good use.
So that you can efficiently produce an excellent grant your reviewers can’t ignore.
With the skills you learn in The Grant Funding Formula®, you’ll be able to:
Quickly and efficiently assess whether your current idea is suitable for an R01 grant and identify the perfect funding opportunity announcement (FOA) to match your research
Deftly navigate the entire NIH submission process thanks to your familiarity with the competition guidelines, the scoring criteria and the review process
Start with a strategic Specific Aims page that allows you to validate your idea before you’ve invested 100+ hours in writing your proposal
Ask for (and actually get) feedback from your busy mentors at the right point in the writing process - instead of waiting weeks for unresponsive reviewers to reply (plug-and-play email scripts included!)
Plan your entire grant writing timeline in only 10 simple steps (Yup, 10, that’s all it takes) using 1 simple trick—so that you can write in a way that’s sustainable and panic-free
Sit down to write each section of your grant knowing exactly which questions you need to answer to make your reviewer feel like you’re reading her mind
Get through the tricky, nit-picky sections of your grant (like the Budget and Biosketches) with ready-to-edit templates to guide you—and increase your score compared to other applicants
Master the strategic feedback process to get useful & relevant input from colleagues without burning them out by asking too much
Make your reviewer sit up and take notice using the “Problem - Gap - Hook - Solution” Framework—this rhetorical strategy is designed specifically to connect key elements of your grant application
Confidently write about the significance of your project without worrying that you’re coming across as too sales-y or over the top
Side-step the common errors and grant-writing mistakes that make your reviewers lose interest. You wouldn't believe how head-slappingly obvious some of these are! (But I see them all the time.)
Create a clear, cohesive, and compelling case for why your research ought to be funded, why you have the right team, and how your project is feasible
Feel supported throughout the grant-writing process thanks to the tips, tricks, and writing techniques I’ve learned from more than 15 years of grant-writing and consulting experience
This proven system is specifically designed for early-career researchers who want to write NIH R01 grant proposals that stand out from the competition and actually get funded!
I know you’re a busy high-achiever whose schedule is already completely over-stretched.
So The Grant Funding Formula® is as streamlined as it can be, while still providing an in-depth understanding of the entire submission process.
Meaning you can learn how to produce a persuasive proposal, even if:
You’ve never written an NIH R-series grant before and you’re finding the entire process to be intimidating and overwhelming—if you feel like you're learning a whole new skillset, you’re not wrong!
English is your second language. You'll learn NIH grant writing tips that will feel like a💡has been turned on, making your proposals clear and compelling regardless of your native language (#4 is my favourite)!
You consider yourself a weak writer and feel like, while your work is important, you struggle to make it sound as compelling on paper as it does in your head.
You just don’t understand the parts, pieces, and process of grant-writing and you often wonder where everybody else learned this stuff. (Hint: some of them took this course!)
Despite attending multiple grant writing workshops, you’re still not clear on the actual step-by-step process that'll take you from blank page to finished proposal.
You’re on the tenure track, so you struggle to find time to write grants because you also (always) need to be writing manuscripts. The planning strategies you’ll learn in this course are designed to take your real life circumstances into account so you DON’T set yourself up to fail.
You’ve submitted an R01 grant once, twice, or a few times before, and you’re starting to wonder if these recurring failures mean you’re not cut out for a faculty job.
Or
You’ve found yourself stuck in a vicious circle of overwhelm & procrastination, where one leads to the other, so your application does poorly, and the whole process repeats for the next cycle → The best antidote for overwhelm is breaking your task into bite-sized chunks, which is exactly what this course will teach you to do (instead of just crossing your fingers, hoping for better luck next time).
Get ready to become a grant-writing genius whether your deadline is in 6 months, 9 months, or a future goal.
Accelerated
(6 Months)
Perfect if you're aiming for an upcoming NIH deadline. Set aside ~6 hours per week to systematically build your R01, guided by clear milestones and frameworks.
Pace Yourself
(9 Months)
Ideal if you're juggling multiple priorities or want more time for deep work. Same proven process, stretched across 9 months for maximum flexibility and reduced stress.
Future Focus
It’s never too soon to improve your grant writing skills! Start now with our step-by-step resources. Learn the system, gather your materials, and be ready when your timeline aligns.
Here’s how this step-by-step course breaks down…
Module 1: Validate Your Proposal
I can tell you from experience: the secret to writing a fundable R01 starts way before you type your first word. This module starts with your breakthrough research and ensures you're starting with a strong foundation so you can present it powerfully.
You'll learn:
✓ The "cocktail party concept" that turns complex research into a story that makes reviewers lean in
✓ How to write a strong Specific Aims page that masterfully commands attention with our no-brainer blueprint
✓ The #1 validation step most researchers skip - and why it's costing them months of wasted writing time
✓ How to find your target funding institute without doing the grant-writing equivalent of changing your entire personality for a date
✓ How to turn NIH-speak into plain English to build your research roadmap
Because here's what nobody tells you: Getting your R01 funded isn't just about having good science. That’s the expectation, not the exception—a necessary but insufficient condition. You must position that science in a way that makes your reviewer say "This is exciting stuff!" And that's exactly what this module teaches you to do.
Module 2: Plan Your Workflow
Building on your validated research idea, this module is all about creating an organized, realistic timeline. You'll take your big, scary grant-writing to-do list and break it down into bite-sized, manageable chunks that don't leave you breathing into a crumpled paper bag.
In this super-practical module, you'll learn:
✓ How to approach grant writing like a project manager - to turn "completely overwhelming" into "totally doable" (Even if your usual approach to projects is to “just dive in”)
✓ A 10-step system to help you map out your schedule in a way that ensures you're using your best brain hours on the work that matters most (instead of wasting your peak writing time on endless email)
✓ The most effective, simple trick to make sure sticking to your chosen schedule feels sustainable and meltdown-free
✓ How to handle snafus, unexpected roadblocks, and interruptions to your schedule (because something ALWAYS comes up)
✓ How to create a strategic feedback plan that keeps your reviewers engaged and your proposal on track
✓ The power of consistent writing habits and effective time blocking to maintain steady progress
✓ Delegation strategies to ensure you what you need from your team, when you need it
✓ How to use project management tools like Trello to stay organized and focused throughout the process
You'll wake up on submission day feeling confident and well-rested, knowing you've given your brilliant research its best shot at funding. (Instead of wondering if you remembered to fix that typo in your Biosketch at 11:58 PM...)
Module 3: Building Your Argument
The secret to writing a grant you're actually proud of? Having a clear framework to build your argument. This module provides section-by-section walkthroughs that save you countless hours of wondering what to include.
No more procrastinating because you’re overwhelmed by the challenges of grant writing vs manuscript writing; no more agonizing over whether you’re underselling your research or if you're veering dangerously into used-car-salesperson territory.
Instead, you’ll sit down to write with one of the plug-and-play templates, answering questions in the order they’re asked, completely confident you’re hitting all the right notes, and most likely thinking, “Wow, this isn’t nearly as hard as I thought it would be.”
You’ll learn:
✓ The "W-T-F Framework" (Worthiness, Trust, Feasibility) that answers the three questions every funded grant nails: Is it Worth doing? Can we Trust this team to deliver? Is the project Feasible?
✓ How to navigate NIH's new Simplified Review Framework to showcase your research's importance, demonstrate its rigor, and prove you've got the expertise to deliver
✓ The psychology of reviewer behavior (and how to use it to your advantage without feeling like a used-car salesperson)
✓ My tried-and-tested strategies for writing budgets that demonstrate feasibility instead of raising red flags
✓ The most common R01 mistakes that tank otherwise great applications (and exactly how to avoid them)
Plus, you get my step-by-step worksheets with targeted prompts to transform your scattered ideas into a clear, logical story that showcases your project’s potential.
Module 4: Refine Your Application
You’ve got your ideas on paper, so congrats! The hardest part is behind you.
But don't send that grant off just yet. Because here's what separates funded researchers from everyone else: They know that magic happens in the refinement stage.
In this module, you'll learn what steps to take to make your grant as strong and persuasive as possible.
The ability to review & assess your own grant applications is one of the most valuable skills you can develop as a grant writer, so this module teaches you what you should be looking out for and how to “doubt-proof” your grant so you’re overcoming your reviewers' objections before they ever come up.
You’ll learn:
✓ My "Reviewer's Eye" framework for critically reviewing your own work
✓ The psychology behind reviewer feedback—and how to use it strategically without losing sight of your vision (because not all feedback is created equal)
✓ 10 writing techniques that instantly elevate your grant from "solid science" to "must fund" (even implementing just #1 will make your grant dramatically more engaging)
✓ The art of "doubt-proofing"—how to find and fix the holes in your argument before your reviewers do
✓ The final packaging secrets that make your grant impossible to ignore (including the perfect title formula that signals to reviewers "this research will advance the field")
While other researchers rush to submit their first and only draft (and play the NIH lottery), you'll know exactly how to polish your grant into the kind of proposal that makes reviewers enthusiastic to support your research.
Bonus Training: Pivot
Got triaged? Or got a non-fundable score? This bonus module teaches you how to respond to NIH reviewer comments by reading between the lines to interpret the (often cryptic) reviewer feedback within your Summary Statement.
You’ll learn:
✓ How to process the initial disappointment you’re bound to feel so you can move forward productively with the grant you’ve got (because you can't revise effectively while you're still in the emotional weeds)
✓ Exactly what changes to make when you revise and resubmit beyond the obvious recommendations the reviewer makes for your Approach
✓ The strategic pivot framework that helps you decide whether to revise and resubmit, start fresh with a new R01, or take your brilliant science to a different funding source entirely
Getting rejected doesn't mean you're not R01 material. It just means you need a strategic way to present your science that makes reviewers say, "Now THIS is what we've been looking for."
What Makes The Grant Funding Formula® Different?
The Grant Funding Formula® is the only grant-writing resource out there that includes:
Strategically Focused Video Lessons
...that are yours for life. So you can learn at your own pace and refer back to these resources whenever you need a refresh.
Work through the information at a pace that suits your goals and re-watch the lessons as many times as you like—for as many grant applications as you want.
The lessons are brief and to the point. Meaning your days of thumbing through scribbled notes from your last workshop... at 3 a.m. (48 hours before the deadline) are behind you.
► Got a question?
Submit your question to our team using the course platform, and get the straightforward, easy-to-implement grant-writing advice you’ve been craving since grad school.
Life-Changing Project Management Templates
If you struggle to find the time to sit down and write, or it's impossible to stick to the schedule you set for yourself… Our Trello project management templates are going to blow your mind.
(What's Trello? It’s a free project management tool. Imagine you have a virtual white board with each of your tasks on a sticky note, except they won’t blow off if you leave the window open.)
With 2 template options to choose from, you can opt to organize your tasks according to the 5 key elements of the grant writing process I map out for you, or go for a weekly structure, so you can easily factor in holidays and other engagements.
Either way, you’ll be able to track your overall progress, and you’ll always sit down to write knowing exactly what you should be working on—which can sometimes feel like half the battle.
Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Timeline
Looking at a big, scary list of 130 grant-writing to-dos can be intimidating and make it less likely you'll actually get anything done. And without any external structure or accountability, it’s hard to make sure that you’re always moving forward.
But what if the path to your funded R01 didn't have to feel like a desperate sprint to the finish line?
Here’s the thing: Your brilliantly-designed research deserves more than a last-minute scramble. That's why we've mapped out three paths to get you there (without the usual grant-writing hysteria).
When you sign up for The Grant Funding Formula®, you'll choose from three pre-mapped routes to funding success. Each comes with its own milestone timeline, designed to match your schedule and submission goals:
The 6-month
Roadmap
For when that next NIH deadline is calling your name. Block out around 6 hours each week and let's methodically build this thing, milestone by milestone. No panic writing required.
The 9-month
Roadmap
Because sometimes life doesn't stop for grant writing. 3-4 hours a week, same expert process, zero overwhelm. Perfect for juggling clinical work, teaching, or, you know... having a life.
Future Focus
Roadmap
Got other fires to put out right now? Start building your grant-writing foundation at your own pace. The system's here whenever you're ready to dive in.
No matter which pace you choose, you’ll have access to a clear overview of the tasks related to each lesson, in chronological order, to keep the overwhelm at bay and you on track as you work towards preparing your grant for submission.
I know that not giving yourself enough time to write is the #1 reason researchers end up binge-writing & burning out. So by making a commitment to work on your grant at your chosen pace with clear, actionable guidance, you’re guaranteeing yourself a better outcome—both in terms of your finished grant and your mental health.
Plug-and-Play Research Strategy Templates for NIH R01
Because blank-page syndrome is real, I give you 2 editable templates for your overall grant proposal, PLUS fillable worksheets that break the individual sections down into the questions you need to answer.
These templates alone would put you well ahead of the pack when it comes to writing a grant proposal that ticks all the right boxes…
But when you combine them with:
A super solid strategy and early validation of your grant,
The clarity that comes with section-by-section video tutorials that tell you exactly what you need to accomplish and how to start,
Writing techniques your reviewers will love because you treat them like fellow human beings, and
The ability to get the right kind of feedback from the right kind of people, in time to actually help you out...
Well, that’s how you turn your new and improved grant-writing skills into an advantage that would feel downright unfair—if it didn’t feel so freakin' good.
Getting an R01 grant isn’t easy
(otherwise, everybody would have one).
But with the help of The Grant Funding Formula®,
it’ll feel more do-able than you ever thought possible.
Here’s what past participants have said below about this step-by-step program…
The ability to write a persuasive grant proposal is a skill that can literally make or break your career.
Master it, and you gain enormous leverage within your institution, freedom from worrying about how you're going to fund your lab, and space to pursue your research goals.
It's critical for you to know:
• the technical aspects of how to write a good grant,
• how to find and plan the time you’ll spend on your proposal, and
• how to ensure you’ve chosen and framed your study strategically...
...because each of those skills alone will improve the quality of the applications that you write.
But when you add to them the ability to speak to your reviewer on a human level?
When you have a replicable process to make them sit up and say, “Okay, yes, we need to make this happen”?
You start to produce the kind of grant application that can put you on track to make a massive impact in your field—the kind of impact you’ve been dreaming of.
And that’s the kind of alchemy you'll learn inside this unique virtual course.
The only grant writing course that guides you through crafting a clear, persuasive R01 grant - on your timeline - without binge-writing or burning out.
You’ll get lifetime access to the full Grant Funding Formula® system, including...
✓ Everything you need to turn your brilliant research idea into serious NIH funding dollars
✓ The strategic planning process that ensures you’ll actually produce a high-quality grant on a timeline that works for you
✓ Step-by-step video tutorials to walk you through each section of your R-series application, including what you need to include and how to clearly communicate the impact of your work
✓ Fill-in-the-blank templates and guided worksheets that turn grant-writing overwhelm into "Wow, I wrote that?" confidence
The BONUS Training: Pivot
Because we both know it can take more than one try to get your R01, Pivot teaches you how to read between the lines of your Summary Statement as you revise so that you get the best possible results on your resubmission
Try it risk-free for 14 days:
Yep, we’re so confident this proven system will help you write a clear, compelling R01... that we’ll give you 2 whole weeks to test it out yourself.
You get full access to dig into the materials for 2 whole weeks—during which you might very well make more progress than you've made in years of trying to learn this on your own.
If you don't feel confident this system will help you submit a competitive R01 grant application, just let us know within 14 days for a full refund. No questions asked.
But based on our track record of zero refunds? You won't want to.
Ready to write a high-quality R01 using a sustainable writing practice that’ll benefit you for years to come?
Get instant access to the full Grant Funding Formula® system
For 1 single payment of
$2000 USD
Pay in full today and still take 14 days to decide if it’s right for you
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Gain the confidence to write a fundable R01 grant or simply request your money back.
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Smart questions other aspiring R01 grant applicants like you asked before they signed up for The Grant Funding Formula®:
-
Some of what I teach is bound to be familiar—in fact, I really hope it is! But here's the thing…
There's a big difference between knowing something and applying that knowledge consistently and strategically.
What makes this different from workshops is that you'll actually build your grant as you learn. The Problem-Gap-Hook-Solution framework I teach has been called "worth the price of admission" because it turns abstract best practices into actionable steps.
Plus, the course material is yours for life, not just a flash-in-the-pan weekend seminar, which means you're investing in improving your grant-writing skills long-term.
(And, don't forget—you can try it risk-free for 14 days!)
-
Honestly, I already know you wouldn't have gotten this far in your career if you weren't capable of making this work.
Here's why I'm so sure you'll succeed...
The video lessons that make up The Grant Funding Formula® curriculum are designed to walk you through the entire grant-writing process: from choosing the right target institute to giving your finished application that final once-over.
We've broken down the lessons into digestible chunks, with clear milestones and regular check-ins to keep you moving forward. Plus, you'll get our customizable Trello templates to track your progress.
I’ve made this course as streamlined and straightforward as it can be while still being thorough.
That said, you’ve also got 14 days to take advantage of my “Submit with Swagger” guarantee, so there’s no risk to betting on yourself by signing up for The Grant Funding Formula® today.
-
If you've been through the R01 application process before, let me ask you something: Are you satisfied with your success rate? With your writing process?
Here's what makes this different from just doing what you've always done:
Instead of relying on sheer willpower and experience, you'll get a proven system that makes the whole process more strategic and less stressful. The Grant Funding Formula® doesn't just help you write—it helps you write smarter.
My Problem-Gap-Hook-Solution framework has helped even seasoned grant writers better communicate the value of their research. Because let's face it—you'll be writing these grants until you retire. Wouldn't it be worth learning a more sustainable approach?
You've got the experience. I've got the system. Together, we can turn your next application into your best one yet.
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Before I respond, do me a quick favor and think back to how many hours you’ve already spent googling how to do this, getting lost on the NIH website, and hitting refresh on your email, hopelessly hoping one of your colleagues has gotten back to you with their advice.
Done?
Ok.
I’m willing to bet that both consuming the content within this course AND implementing what you’ve learned will still take less time—and waaay less work—than trying to figure this out on your own.
But, to ease your mind, I’ve also kept the course material as streamlined and straightforward as possible.
You’ll also have my done-for-you Trello templates to help you manage this huge project, and a step-by-step walkthrough of the requirements for each section to give you a head start.
If you set aside 60 minutes a week to watch (and re-watch) the videos and do the activities in each lesson, that’s 60 minutes a week you’re spending on writing your grant. (Seriously, I’m not asking you to do anything that’s not directly applicable to the success of your application.)
How long it takes to write the grant itself depends on you.
But, with the right strategy and step-by-step plan to push past roadblocks, I’ll venture you can write a stronger grant more efficiently than you ever have before.
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That depends on your institution, but it's definitely worth asking whether professional development, startup, or other funds can be used to cover the cost of this career-boosting course.
If you need help figuring out how to present this request to the folks who control the purse strings, send us an email at hello@sarahdobson.co, and we can help you out.
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As soon as you sign up for The Grant Funding Formula®, you’ll have full access to everything: all 4 modules of video tutorials, dedicated module workbooks full of actionable resources, our custom Trello board templates, plus, the Pivot bonus training.
So, if you’ve got the time, feel free to binge-watch to your heart’s content.
(But then actually do the work. This isn’t Netflix.)
Here's your first step: Check out the Course Intro and find out if you're R01-ready (and if not, we'll help you figure out how to get there). Master the NIH essentials, grab your perfect-fit resources, and let us know how we can best support you to build your custom roadmap to funding with the New Student Questionnaire. Let's turn that brilliant research idea into a funded grant.
Then, dive into Module 1 - where you'll validate your research idea before investing months of writing time. No more getting feedback too late.
Other options:
🚨 If you need to finish fast, start with the section-by-section walkthroughs in Module 3 and then start revising and refining your application with the editing tips in Module 4.
↪️ If you’re resubmitting, start with the Pivot bonus training, which'll help you put your Summary Statement into perspective, then teach you the art of interpreting the (often cryptic) reviewer comments you got.
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Join me inside The Grant Funding Formula®, and you get immediate access to…
✅Our proven Specific Aims blueprint, step-by-step validation worksheets, successful R01 examples, and a feedback tracking system to nail your research direction before you write.
✅ The strategic planning process (nobody else will teach you) that ensures you can actually produce a high-quality proposal on your timeline.
✅ 4 modules of step-by-step video tutorials that walk you through the process of writing each section of your R-series application, plus getting good feedback and then revising and refining your application till you’re ready to submit with swagger.
✅ Fillable plug’n’play templates and guided worksheets to help you write each section of your grant to keep your momentum up and your eyes on the prize.
Plus...
💪The “Got Your Back” Bonus Module: Pivot - Because we both know the odds are good it’ll take more than one try to get one of your grants funded, Pivot is a mini-training that teaches you how to read between the lines of your Summary Statement so that you get the best possible results on your resubmission.
...all backed by the 14-day "Submit with Swagger" guarantee.
Try it risk-free for 14 days:
Yup—You can take a look around for 2 whole weeks (during which you might very well make more progress than you’ve made in years of trying to learn this on your own) and change your mind for a full refund if you still don’t believe it’ll help you confidently submit your R01 grant application.
Ready to write a high-quality R01 using a sustainable writing practice that’ll benefit you for years to come?
Get instant access to the full Grant Funding Formula® system
For 1 single payment of
$2000 USD
Pay in full today and still take 14 days to decide if it’s right for you
Looking for proof that this is the right move?
If more than 5 of the following apply to you, you’re ready to join me inside The Grant Funding Formula®:
You’re an early-career health researcher who’s just dipping your toes into the big leagues of grant writing.
Though you’ve found the process opaque and overwhelming so far, you’re thrilled to have identified a resource that’ll not only help you understand the mechanics of what you need to include, but also fill you in on the unwritten rules of getting your grant accepted.
You’ve been trying to get an R01 for a couple of years now, but cycle after cycle your application is rejected.
You’ve got no clue what to do with the (often conflicting) reviewers’ comments, and without this funding, your career is a question mark. So you’re starting to panic because time is running out.
You’re serious about going after the big, prestigious grants when it comes to funding your research.
You have huge ambitions and a massive reserve of jet fuel (aka strong coffee) you’ll use to make sure you reach your goal.
You recognize that no resource out there will help you get this funding if you’re not ready to put in the work.
Even though your schedule's packed, you're ready to invest the time needed - whether that's our focused 6-month track, flexible 9-month pace, or on your own timeline.
Because you recognize the value of having someone teach you how to do this RIGHT… instead of wasting even more time winging it on your own.
You know that getting your R01 – and understanding the process well enough that you could confidently do it again – will give you the freedom, independence, and career security you’ve been dreaming of.
“Soft money”, “hard money”—who cares when you have a proven process to secure your own funding?
You trust me and my expertise enough to say yes today and then take 14 days to make sure you’re comfortable with that call.
If you change your mind, all it takes is an email to hello@sarahdobson.co to hit undo on this whole “make writing grants way easier for life” thing you’re trying out.
If research is a key part of your career, you already know you’ll write grants until you retire—or quit.
So imagine if you had a repeatable process you could apply every time to make grant-writing less daunting.
If you’re an assistant professor on the tenure track, you already know an R01 is one of the prereqs for tenure (and you have enough writing to do already)...
So imagine the huge relief of knowing exactly how and when it was going to get done.
If you’re a physician scientist, you already know that an R01 grant is a big project to tackle on top of your clinical work (with a potentially huge reward)...
So imagine if you could increase your chances of getting your important work funded, without sacrificing the level of attention and care you’re able to deliver in the clinic.
If you’re new to grant writing, you already know that getting an NIH R01 is an incredibly intense competition…
So imagine if you could benefit from an expert grant writer’s experience and add their tricks to your toolkit without having to “pay your dues” in hours spent figuring this out on your own.
Finally, if you’re an experienced researcher, then you’re well aware that writing a competitive grant application can be a long, hard, painful process. That it can take over your life, dominate your schedule, and bring up some extreme forms of self-doubt and imposter syndrome...
So imagine if you could avoid the procrastination and perfectionism that lead to the last-minute grant hysterics you know all too well…
And instead follow a clear, step-by-step process to plan, write, and actually submit a persuasive R01 proposal you can be proud of.
(That’s based on the experience and expertise of a grant-writing specialist with a stellar success rate.)
These scenarios are NOT pure hypotheticals…
They’re the lived reality that awaits you when you join…
The Grant Funding Formula®
Inside, you'll discover:
The connect-the-dots system to write an R01 that commands attention—and funding. Skip the overwhelm. Get lifetime access to proven templates, expert guidance, and revision strategies that work.
Plus, get access to the BONUS Training: Pivot - to master your R01 resubmission strategy. Because your research deserves to be funded, whether it takes one try or two.
Try it risk-free for 14 days:
Test-drive the full system for 14 days. See exactly how it transforms your grant-writing process. Not convinced it'll help you submit a winning R01? Get a full refund. Simple as that. Your cutting-edge research deserves this chance.
Ready to write a high-quality R01 using a sustainable writing practice that’ll benefit you for years to come?
Get instant access to the full Grant Funding Formula® system
For 1 single payment of
$2000 USD
Pay in full today and still take 14 days to decide if it’s right for you
Look, we both know the system’s broken…
…when—just for starters—you can go through over 12 years of higher education without having been taught the one skill that's integral to your ability to get and keep a research-related job.
So, the fact that you’re not good at writing grants—yet—is not your fault.
But here we are.
And while we can agitate for change within the system to help those who come next, the immediate truth is that you still need an R01.
What’s the real risk of not making “writes good grants” one of your core skills?
If you choose not to sign up for The Grant Funding Formula®, you do have other options:
Take another swing at this on your own—all the while, stressing that if you don’t get close to a fundable score within the next 12 months, it’s going to be hard to continue.
Or, sign up for another free seminar, fingers crossed that this time, the best practices you learn will stick for longer than a few days and that you luck out and get an expert who actually knows their stuff.
The cost of taking those paths?
Depends on how much time you’re willing to spend figuring this out, and how much funding you’re willing to miss out on as you trial-and-error it over several cycles.
Even if you do sign up for The Grant Funding Formula®, I can’t promise that you’ll get your project funded.
But I can promise that if you implement the steps, you’ll submit the best possible version of your application.
...an application you can be proud to put your name to.
...an application so airtight that even if it doesn’t get a fundable score, the comments you get from reviewers will be way more helpful than “X wasn’t clear” or “Y wasn't explained”, which means your reviewers are actually assessing the scientific merit of your research, and aren’t distracted by errors in grantsmanship. (Which means that you’ll know exactly where you need to focus when you resubmit.)
Plus, you'll know how to repeat that process every time you need to write a new R01 proposal.
The risk of joining today?
There isn’t one.
You can request a full refund within 14 days as long as you’re willing to dip your toes into the course and try it out.
What are the potential rewards of swiping my step-by-step grant-writing process—and actually getting that R01?
✦ Immediate relief and a MAJOR confidence boost as you realize that someone else is excited enough about your work to advocate for your research,
✦ The warm, fuzzy sense of security that comes with knowing you can keep your lab open, keep paying your trainees and staff, keep working in a field you love,
✦ Increased independence and the ability to explore areas that truly interest you, not to mention the increased confidence that comes from knowing your peers have deemed your ideas worth funding,
✦ The freedom to take your brilliant mind wherever you want to work because you know you have a process you can replicate to write a grant that gets results, and
✦ The knowledge that you’re getting your most important work done:
Making an impact in your field and moving science forward.
If you’re excited about what your future could hold if you learn the skills to write a competitive R01 grant application today, then I can’t wait to see you inside...
Still have questions?
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The Grant Funding Formula® is the only self-paced course that walks you through the process step by step, with a focus on strategy and grantsmanship, so you can finally write a clear and persuasive R01—without the binge-writing or burnout. We go way beyond the generic NIH grant writing tips with actionable guidance and insights you simply can’t find through a Google search (or the R01 workshop your institution offers).The Grant Funding Formula® is the only self-paced course that walks you through the process step by step, with a focus on strategy and grantsmanship, so you can finally write a clear and persuasive R01—without the binge-writing or burnout. We go way beyond the generic NIH grant writing tips with actionable guidance and insights you simply can’t find through a Google search (or the R01 workshop your institution offers).
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Look, here's the truth: While we've designed The Grant Funding Formula® specifically for R01s (because, let's face it—that's the grant most early-career researchers need to master), the skills you'll learn work across the board.
Think about it: Whether you're going for an R01 or dreaming about that sweet R35 MIRA grant freedom, you need to:
Get your reviewer to sit up and take notice,
Make your science crystal clear (even at 11 p.m. when they're on their 5th application of the night),
Tell a compelling story about why your work matters, and
Build an airtight case for why you're the right researcher for the job.
The frameworks we teach? They're like your grant-writing Swiss Army knife. While these grants may differ from an R01, the foundational concepts inside the course have helped our clients land:
R21 exploratory grants
R03 small grant programs
Other federal grants
Even foundation grants
Because here's what nobody tells you: Great grant writing is about learning how to make your reviewer think "YES! This is the research we need to fund."
And that's exactly what The Grant Funding Formula® teaches you to do.Look, here's the truth: While we've designed The Grant Funding Formula® specifically for R01s (because, let's face it—that's the grant most early-career researchers need to master), the skills you'll learn work across the board.
Think about it: Whether you're going for an R01 or dreaming about that sweet R35 MIRA grant freedom, you need to:
Get your reviewer to sit up and take notice,
Make your science crystal clear (even at 11 p.m. when they're on their 5th application of the night),
Tell a compelling story about why your work matters, and
Build an airtight case for why you're the right researcher for the job.
The frameworks we teach? They're like your grant-writing Swiss Army knife. While these grants may differ from an R01, the foundational concepts inside the course have helped our clients land:
R21 exploratory grants
R03 small grant programs
Other federal grants
Even foundation grants
Because here's what nobody tells you: Great grant writing is about learning how to make your reviewer think "YES! This is the research we need to fund."
And that's exactly what The Grant Funding Formula® teaches you to do.
-
But wait, what about R35 MIRA grants? (You know, the ones with that sweet flexible funding?)
Here's some good news: We kept hearing from researchers just like you who were eyeing R35s. So we created a BONUS tutorial dedicated to helping you craft that perfect big-picture research vision.
And here's a little insider secret: Our signature Problem-Gap-Hook-Solution framework is a powerhouse for R01s, but it pulls double duty for R35s too. Because whether you're pitching a focused project or your big-picture research vision, this framework gets program officers excited. Just saying...But wait, what about R35 MIRA grants? (You know, the ones with that sweet flexible funding?)
Here's some good news: We kept hearing from researchers just like you who were eyeing R35s. So we created a BONUS tutorial dedicated to helping you craft that perfect big-picture research vision.
And here's a little insider secret: Our signature Problem-Gap-Hook-Solution framework is a powerhouse for R01s, but it pulls double duty for R35s too. Because whether you're pitching a focused project or your big-picture research vision, this framework gets program officers excited. Just saying…
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You bet. And not just any templates—these templates are built on the exact frameworks that have helped our clients secure more than $75 million in funding.
But here's what makes our templates different: We don't just toss them your way and wish you luck. (Because, let's be honest, how many downloaded templates are sitting unused in your folders right now?)
Instead, we show you exactly how to use each one to transform your scientific brilliance into reviewer-friendly proposals. These aren't theoretical exercises—they're battle-tested tools based on successfully funded grants.You bet. And not just any templates—these templates are built on the exact frameworks that have helped our clients secure more than $75 million in funding.
But here's what makes our templates different: We don't just toss them your way and wish you luck. (Because, let's be honest, how many downloaded templates are sitting unused in your folders right now?)
Instead, we show you exactly how to use each one to transform your scientific brilliance into reviewer-friendly proposals. These aren't theoretical exercises—they're battle-tested tools based on successfully funded grants.
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Writing an R01 isn't a race - it's about finding the right rhythm that works for your packed schedule. The Grant Funding Formula® offers two proven roadmaps: an accelerated 6-month sprint dedicating about 6 hours weekly, or a more relaxed 9-month journey that gives you breathing room around clinical duties, teaching, and life's inevitable curve balls.
But here's the beautiful thing—you're never locked into either timeline. Need to speed things up because a deadline's breathing down your neck? Jump straight to the section-by-section walkthroughs. Got more time to really polish your proposal? Take the scenic route through our complete framework. Already submitted and got feedback? The bonus Pivot module helps you turn those reviewer comments into funding gold.
The only non-negotiable? Setting aside focused time each week to work through the system. But here's what makes our approach to grant writing different: Every minute you spend in the course is actually advancing your grant. You're not just passively watching videos, consuming information—you're actively building your R01 as you learn.
Because let's face it - you'll be writing grants until you retire (or quit), so investing in these skills now pays dividends throughout your entire research career. This isn't about racing to meet one deadline - it's about mastering a repeatable process that transforms grant writing from a dreaded chore into a strategic advantage.
Instead of asking, "How long does it take to write an R01?", the better question is, "How can I make every minute count?" That's exactly what this grant writing system teaches you to do.Writing an R01 isn't a race - it's about finding the right rhythm that works for your packed schedule. The Grant Funding Formula® offers two proven roadmaps: an accelerated 6-month sprint dedicating about 6 hours weekly, or a more relaxed 9-month journey that gives you breathing room around clinical duties, teaching, and life's inevitable curve balls.
But here's the beautiful thing—you're never locked into either timeline. Need to speed things up because a deadline's breathing down your neck? Jump straight to the section-by-section walkthroughs. Got more time to really polish your proposal? Take the scenic route through our complete framework. Already submitted and got feedback? The bonus Pivot module helps you turn those reviewer comments into funding gold.
The only non-negotiable? Setting aside focused time each week to work through the system. But here's what makes our approach to grant writing different: Every minute you spend in the course is actually advancing your grant. You're not just passively watching videos, consuming information—you're actively building your R01 as you learn.
Because let's face it - you'll be writing grants until you retire (or quit), so investing in these skills now pays dividends throughout your entire research career. This isn't about racing to meet one deadline - it's about mastering a repeatable process that transforms grant writing from a dreaded chore into a strategic advantage.
Instead of asking, "How long does it take to write an R01?", the better question is, "How can I make every minute count?" That's exactly what this grant writing system teaches you to do.
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While we can't share complete grants (you know how it is with confidentiality), we give you something even better:
The exact language that makes reviewers sit up and take notice
Success stories from funded applications (with the key lessons you can swipe)
Reviewer response strategies that turn critiques into funding opportunities While we can't share complete grants (you know how it is with confidentiality), we give you something even better:
The exact language that makes reviewers sit up and take notice
Success stories from funded applications (with the key lessons you can swipe)
Reviewer response strategies that turn critiques into funding opportunities
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The moment you complete your enrollment, you’ll get:
Immediate access to the complete system (no waiting around—you've got grants to write!)
Your login details in your inbox
All those templates and Trello boards we mentioned
Freedom to dive into whichever module matches your current needs (because your grant timeline is yours to control)The moment you complete your enrollment, you’ll get:
Immediate access to the complete system (no waiting around—you've got grants to write!)
Your login details in your inbox
All those templates and Trello boards we mentioned
Freedom to dive into whichever module matches your current needs (because your grant timeline is yours to control)
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You'll get instant access to:
Video tutorials you can watch anywhere, anytime (perfect for those moments between meetings)
4 dedicated module workbooks full of actionable templates and worksheets that will actually help you write a better R01
Trello templates that'll help you feel surprisingly organizedYou'll get instant access to:
Video tutorials you can watch anywhere, anytime (perfect for those moments between meetings)
4 dedicated module workbooks full of actionable templates and worksheets that will actually help you write a better R01
Trello templates that'll help you feel surprisingly organized
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Here's the beautiful thing: Once you're in, you're in for life. That means:
Lifetime access to every single resource (yes, really)
Any updates we make? They're yours too
Future grants? Come back anytime
Templates and tools? Yours to keep and reuse forever (Because we both know this won't be your last grant application...)Here's the beautiful thing: Once you're in, you're in for life. That means:
Lifetime access to every single resource (yes, really)
Any updates we make? They're yours too
Future grants? Come back anytime
Templates and tools? Yours to keep and reuse forever (Because we both know this won't be your last grant application...)
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Look, we get it—you're juggling teaching, research, and what feels like millions of emails. While we provide a 6-month or 9-month roadmap to help you pace yourself to meet your timeline goals, this is YOUR process. You can:
Speed things up when that deadline's breathing down your neck
Take it slower when life gets in the way (it happens to the best of us)
Jump to exactly what you need right now
Review anything, anytime, as often as you want (afterall, the last thing you need is another rigid schedule to stress about)Look, we get it—you're juggling teaching, research, and what feels like millions of emails. While we provide a 6-month or 9-month roadmap to help you pace yourself to meet your timeline goals, this is YOUR process. You can:
Speed things up when that deadline's breathing down your neck
Take it slower when life gets in the way (it happens to the best of us)
Jump to exactly what you need right now
Review anything, anytime, as often as you want (afterall, the last thing you need is another rigid schedule to stress about)
Ready to write a high-quality R01 using a sustainable writing practice that actually fits your busy life?
Try it risk-free for 14 days:
Get instant access to the full Grant Funding Formula® system
For 1 single payment of
$2000 USD
Pay in full today and still take 14 days to decide if it’s right for you