Common Definitions and Terms

Correct classification of external funding can be very complex. Rather than focusing on any individual characteristic, each offer must be looked at in its totality. The table below summarizes a few of the criteria that are reviewed when making this determination. (chart obtained through Utah State University).

Gifts

Grant

Contract

License Agreement

Managing Office Development Sponsored Programs Sponsored Programs Sponsored Programs       
Primary Intent Charitable intent, no expectation of economic benefit or quid pro quo Public Good Economic Benefit or specific benefit to Sponsor Economic Benefit or specific benefit to Sponsor
Source of funding Individual, Private, Non-governmental All except individual All except individual All
Purpose General. Doesn't direct specific scientific inquiry. May be restricted to a particular purpose such as professorship or scholarship. Semi -Directed with broad, programmatic objective. Result of submitting proposal driven by outcome. Specific purpose, service or objective. Result of submitting proposal driven by outcome. Specific purpose, service or objective relating to Intellectual Property (IP).
Terms General or non-restrictive Semi Restrictive Restrictive Restrictive
Irrevocable Revocable Revocable Revocable
Intellectual Property (IP) issues IP/ Ownership issues IP/ Ownership terms
Typically must return unexpended funds Data or Publication restrictions (even review and/or approval language) Data or Publication restrictions (even review and/or approval language)
Payments contingent on progress Payments may be contingent on progress Payments may be contingent on progress
Specific period of performance Specific period of performance Specific period of performance or license term
Specific financial accountability Specific financial accountability Specific financial accountability
Sponsor approval may be required for deviations Sponsor approval required for deviations Sponsor approval required for deviations
Reporting/ Deliverables Minimal reporting, Stewardship vs. contractual obligation Required Required Required
Regular financial and progress reports required Regular financial and progress reports required. Regular financial and progress reports required.
Final financial and Final Technical Reports standard Final financial and Final Technical Reports. Final financial and Final Technical Reports.