Make your application easy to read. Develop clear goals. Plan ahead on how to accomplish your project. Think about the details before you fill out the proposal. This helps you and also lets the reviewers know that you have thought through all the steps of your project.
Timing is everything.
Let the reviewers know WHEN you will be doing the things you plan to do. A detailed timetable lets them know that you have given this work some thought and that you have a clear idea of the time it will take. Choose specialists to help you that complement your own skills. Pick your cooperators carefully and make sure each one has the skills you need for your project. Include letters from cooperators, in which they describe how they'll help you, along with your proposal.