PIs may also be able to list persons who should not be asked to review their proposals. Rejections Sponsors commonly receive many more worthy applications than can possibly be funded. To be competitive, each proposal must be prepared as carefully as possible. However, the success or failure of a proposal can depend on factors outside the applicant's control. Some of these factors are the availability of funds, the sponsor's need for a geographical distribution of funds, the sponsor's relative priorities, and the reviewer's perspective.
Many sponsors provide explanatory information with their letters of notification.
This information often includes the process by which the proposal was reviewed, the number of proposals and awards, and information about budget availability. Copies of proposal reviews may also be supplied. Contact the program officer or sponsor for further information. If an applicant feels that the proposal's handling or peer review has been inappropriate, some sponsors allow appeals. Check the sponsor's guidelines for further information.