To submit proposals on Upwork without using connects, it is recommended to upgrade to an Agency Plus membership which allows for the purchase of Connects in bundles of 10, 20, 40, 60, or 80. Alternatively, one can update their status to a Non-Exclusive member and submit proposals from their freelancer's profile. It is also possible to wait until the beginning of the month when free Upwork membership offers 10 connects, or invest in a paid connect bundle for 150, 300, 600, 900, or 1200. Another option is to purchase an Upwork membership for $14.99 per month which includes 80 connects and additional benefits. When submitting a proposal, no connects are required, however, attaching work samples or answering screening questions may increase the chances of being hired. It is also worth considering passive job hunting as a way to secure jobs on Upwork without using connects.