7 Tips for Writing a Successful Helmholtz AI Project Application

1. Read the Entire Project Call Text Carefully

One of the most crucial steps is to read the entire project call text and follow the instructions meticulously. Missing or incorrect documents, such as exceeding the 5-page limit for the main proposal or forgetting to include required letters, can lead to delays or even disqualification. Pay close attention to all details to ensure your application is complete and accurate.

2. Focus on Clear and Concise Communication

When writing your proposal, clarity and conciseness are key. Establish your major points in a logical and straightforward manner. Clearly define the goals of your project and detail the milestones and deliverables. The evaluation panel consists of experts from various fields, not just your own, so your proposal should be easy to understand and compelling to a broad audience. Additionally, make sure that your description of methods goes beyond buzzwords, we encourage you to consult with an AI expert within your network or the Helmholtz AI community when writing your proposal.

3. Highlight Major Project Objectives and Goals

Ensure that the main objectives of your project are prominently featured and well-articulated. Your proposal should convincingly explain why your project is novel, high-risk, and high-gain. Make sure that the composition of your project partners makes sense and that their roles are clearly defined. Also ensure that it is clear why your selected approach is the best approach for your proposed research. This will help demonstrate the feasibility and potential impact of your project.

4. Pay Attention to Award and Exclusion Criteria

The scoring and exclusion criteria are critical components of the evaluation process. Familiarize yourself with these criteria and ensure that your proposal aligns with them. Address each criterion thoroughly to maximize your chances of receiving a high score.

5. Include All Required Documents and Information

Ensure that you include all requested documents, such as the CVs in the specified format and letters of support from participating Helmholtz centers. Also make sure that your lists of work packages and deliverables are detailed enough to demonstrate that this has been well thought through. It is also a good idea to double check the numbers your financial plan to confirm that everything adds up.

6. Get started early

You are required to submit a declaration, usually as signed letter, by the CEO/board of directors (DE: “Vorstand”) confirming matching funds. Because this may take some weeks to process, you should request this from the collaborating centres as soon as possible. Even if you choose to complete your application closer to the deadline, we encourage you to acquaint yourself with all the requirements and reach out to the Helmholtz AI Projects team as early as possible with questions to allow enough time for them to get back to you promptly.

7. Engage with Helmholtz AI Community and Resources

Take advantage of the resources and networking opportunities offered by Helmholtz AI. Attend info events, work with our AI consultants or reach out to a Helmholtz AI Associate, and engage with the collaborative workspace on Mattermost to find potential project partners. For questions regarding the application process or requirements go through the FAQs document. If you are not able to find an answer there, reach out to the Helmholtz AI Projects team via email: projects@helmholtz.ai