Researchers invest considerable time developing compelling proposals that showcase innovative ideas and demonstrate societal impact. Purple helps you streamline proposal development by providing guidance on requirements, structure, and content—allowing you to focus on advancing your research and educational goals. Purple can help with proposals for various funding agencies; this guide uses an NSF CAREER proposal as an example. 

Note: Select the Pure Purple agent to access these functions. 

Try it yourself 

Step 1: Analyze proposal requirements 

Provide Purple with a link to the funding opportunity or attach the solicitation. For example: 

"I'd like to prepare a proposal for the NSF CAREER Award. Please analyze the requirements and outline what's needed for a complete proposal. [solicitation URL]" 

Purple will provide a comprehensive breakdown including: 

• Required sections and page limits (cover sheet, project description, references, biographical sketch, supplementary documents) 
• Specific formatting requirements 
• Budget requirements and constraints 
• Submission deadlines 
• Review criteria (Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts) 

Step 2: Explore common elements and best practices 

Ask Purple about specific components or successful approaches. For example: 

"What types of broader impacts are common for early-career proposals and awards?" 

Purple will explain common approaches such as: 

• Increasing diversity and inclusion in STEM 
• Educational outreach and engagement 
• Public science literacy initiatives 
• Workforce development and mentoring 
• Partnerships with community organizations 
• Technology transfer and innovation 

Step 3: Clarify distinctions between proposal elements 

Request guidance on how to approach different sections. For example: 

"Can you explain the primary differences between the language that should be included in broader impacts versus intellectual merit?" 

Purple will clarify the focus and language for each: 

Aspect	Intellectual Merit	Broader Impacts
Focus	Advancement of knowledge	Societal or educational benefits
Language	Technical, research-focused	Impact-oriented, accessible
Examples	Hypotheses, methods, innovation	Outreach, diversity initiatives, community engagement

Step 4: Get procedural guidance 

Ask about administrative or logistical requirements. For example: 

"How is a departmental letter typically obtained?" 

Purple will walk you through the process: 

• Identifying the appropriate department official 
• Preparing a proposal summary for context 
• Making a formal request with clear deadlines 
• Providing draft language or talking points 
• Following up and confirming receipt 

Step 5: Refine your questions based on Purple's guidance 

Continue the conversation to get help with specific sections, review draft language, or clarify any remaining requirements.