Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can our organization submit more than one concept paper at a time?
   
   Yes. Organizations may submit as many concept papers at a time as they wish. Selection of concept papers are based upon the overall quality of the research and a determination of best fit with the Foundation’s goals.
   
   
2. What are your deadlines?
   
   Concept papers are due on June 1 or December 1 of each year. If a full proposal is requested, deadlines are August 15 and February 15, respectively. If these dates fall on a weekend, the deadline is the following business day.
   
   
3. Are there any size and duration limitations to grants?
   
   Awards and time periods vary depending upon the specific project. Research projects may be no longer than 3 years in length. Total grant size should be no more than roughly $300,000.
   
   
4. Do you fund basic science research?
   
   Laboratory studies are funded occasionally. However, we expect that the basic science is a preliminary step required to support a clinical trial and that a clinical study will follow shortly after the funded project is completed.
   
   
5. Do you fund projects in which the research will be conducted outside of the United States?
   
   This is done on occasion and at the discretion of the Trustees. The case must be made for conducting the research outside of the United States. Results must provide a benefit to children in the United States.
   
   
6. Who reviews concept papers?
   
   Concept papers are reviewed by a subcommittee of the board. This subcommittee includes lay as well as medical professionals.
   
   
7. How soon after submitting a concept paper will I hear if I have been selected to submit a full proposal?
   
   Concept papers are reviewed within two weeks of the deadline. You should expect to receive word on the outcome of the review by June or December 20th.
   
   
8. If I am selected to submit a full proposal, when will the full proposal be due?
   
   Full proposals are due by February 15th and August 15th of each year.
   
   
9. Who reviews full proposals?
   
   Proposals are initially reviewed by a subcommittee assigned to that project. Expert reviewers are utilized during this initial review as needed. Proposals of high quality are then reviewed by the full board. Wherever possible, the proposal should be geared toward the lay reader.
   
   
10. How many grants are awarded each year?
    
    The number of grants awarded depends on the overall size of projects selected. Generally 10-15 are selected each year for approval. Our goal is to have an approval rate of 60-90% during each grant cycle.
    
    
11. What is the relationship of teh Foundation to the Gerber Products Company?
    
    The Gerber Foundation is not related to the Gerber Products Company and is an independent, private foundation.