I want to add to your point here - I only have second author publications and a proposal that, frankly, isn't going to change the world in any meaningful way AT ALL, but was awarded little SSHRC. I think they're looking for really strong research methods and feasibility more than anything else. It's SUCH a crapshoot. And for me, not really of financial benefit because my institutional funding package will get adjusted. The only real upside to getting the award (for programs that are already funded) is not having to apply again.