Grant Letter of Intent Template
When to use it
- NIH funding opportunities that request a letter of intent by a set date before the application deadline.
- DoD CDMRP and other programs that require a pre-application or LOI.
- Foundations that screen applicants with an LOI before inviting full proposals.
Template preview
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Version 1: NIH letter of intent
Send to the contact named in the funding opportunity by the LOI date. NIH letters of intent are usually requested but not required, and they are not binding.
[Date]
[Scientific/Research contact name] [Institute or Center] National Institutes of Health [Email]
Dear Dr. [Last name]:
This letter is to notify you of our intent to submit an application in response to [NOFO number]: "[NOFO title]."
Sincerely, [Signature] [PD/PI name]
Version 2: Foundation letter of intent
Most foundation LOIs run one to three pages. Follow the foundation's required headings if it provides them.
[Date] [Program officer name] [Foundation] [Address]
Dear [Name]:
Request. [Institution] respectfully requests $[amount] over [N] years to support [project name], led by Dr. [Name].
The problem. [Two or three sentences on the need, with one compelling figure.]
Our approach. [What you will do, why it is new, and why your team is positioned to do it.]
Expected outcomes. [Specific, measurable results within the grant period, and how they advance the foundation's mission.]
Budget overview. [Major cost categories and other secured or pending funding.]
Thank you for considering this request. I would welcome the opportunity to submit a full proposal. Sincerely, [Signature] [Name, title, contact information]
Tips
- Check whether the LOI is required, optional, or a gate to a full proposal. The answer changes how much effort it deserves.
- For NIH, use the exact funding opportunity number and send it by the date in the notice. A late LOI does not disqualify an NIH application, but it helps the institute plan review.
- For foundations, mirror the foundation's own language and priorities, and state the dollar amount up front.
- Route foundation LOIs through your sponsored programs or foundation relations office if they include a budget request.
Frequently asked questions
What is a letter of intent for a grant?
A short letter telling a sponsor you plan to apply. For federal programs it helps them plan review; for foundations it is often a screening step before a full proposal.
Is an NIH letter of intent required?
Usually not. Most NIH funding opportunities request an LOI but state that it is not required and not binding. Read the specific notice.
What does an NIH letter of intent include?
The descriptive title, the PD/PI's name and contact information, names of other key personnel, participating institutions, and the funding opportunity number and title.
How long is a foundation letter of intent?
Typically one to three pages, unless the foundation sets a different limit or uses an online form.
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