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Summary
Welcome to part two of “Who Funds This Stuff Anyhow?” where Sophia and Taylor will dive back into conversation about funding engaged research. In part 2, Gretchen Alkema from The SCAN Foundation and Marcus Escobedo from The Hartford Foundation join with insights from the funder’s point of view. Tune in to learn how to better navigate the funding landscape and increase your chances of having your engaged research supported! https://anchor.fm/s/71ce964c/podcast/rss
Taylor’s Reflections
I was glad to get back on the headset and join Gretchen Alkema and Marcus Escobedo for an awesome discussion about funding. Funding is such an important topic for current and future researchers alike. Funders have so much power to control what is required from their researchers, and through that, the power to influence research methods. I know that having funders join our mission is key in “shifting the paradigm.”
As a student, I really valued this key insight from Gretchen and Alkema. In order to be a successful researcher, I have to be able to secure funding. I really believe that my knowledge of stakeholder engagement will give me an edge down the road when it is time to make my work stand out. Obtaining funding is one of those important parts of being a researcher that is not often taught as part of the main curriculum, so getting this extra insight into the process is very helpful for students such as myself.
I think the most important part of this podcast comes when Sophia asks Gretchen and Marcus what they look for in a good proposal. Being prepared and willing to show your work is key! It is so encouraging to hear that The Scan Foundation and The Hartford Foundation require the older adult voice to be central in the project’s methodology. Engaging older adults makes sure that your results have substance and that data is being interpreted in a way that is meaningful for older adults.