A grant is an agreement between the sponsor and the institution. Generally, the sponsor is only minimally involved in the execution of the project. For further details about grants, please see the types of sponsored projects.
When a sponsor decides to support a project, it may fund the project at a different level from that requested. It also may want changes in the proposed work or in the services to be provided by the project. If so, the sponsor willnotify the University of its desire to negotiate the award agreement.
Depending on the kind of change negotiated, a revised System Tracking and External Projects (STEP) form (PDF) may be prepared and new approvals required.
The Sponsor’s Notification of Award
After negotiations, an award notice will be sent to NIU. In some cases, the sponsor also sends an award notice to the principal investigator. The PI should contact OSP to confirm whether OSP has also received a copy (815-753-1581).
Acceptance of Award
After the review is complete, OSP will proceed with accepting the award. The specific procedure differs depending on the sponsor and the type of grant they have issued. OSP personnel will determine what steps need to be taken to execute a grant award.
A completed STEP form must be on file prior to the acceptance of an award. This includes approvals from the principal investigator (PI), Co-PI(s), Chair(s), Dean(s), Director of OSP and the Vice President for Research.