While the phrase 'letter of commitment' is often used interchangeably with 'letter of support,' there is a fundamental difference between the two.  A letter of support may, for example, state that a community group endorses or approves of a particular project.  A letter of commitment, on the other hand, is a statement of active participation in the project.  It specifies resources that the group will commit to the project and identifies what role it will play in bringing the project to a successful conclusion.   

White papers describe a problem and a proposed approach, give a ballpark budget figure, and tell what the perceived benefits will be. Thus, a white paper is both a description of a problem and a proposed solution. It is also a marketing tool that is designed to generate interest in the proposed undertaking.

A white paper should be 1-2 pages in length or longer if you are so instructed. White papers are brief yet readable documents. Write for your audience. Write to persuade your reader to join with you on the project.

1. Define your Goals and Objectives. Goals should tie to the
   sponsor's mission or priorities; Objectives - the steps to achieve your
   Goals - form the basis for your project plan. The sponsor is buying
   your Objectives when it funds your project.

The Project Initiation Meeting (PIM) will take place shortly after an account is established for the sponsored project. The purpose of the meeting is to provide an opportunity to review all aspects of the project and respond to questions. The meeting is attended by the principal investigator, co-investigator(s), SRS, and SPFMS. Any other individual(s) that will assist the principal investigator in the administration of the sponsored project are welcome to attend.

Topics that will be discussed at the PIM include: