Grants Management
Congratulations! You have just been awarded a grant. Now the fun starts. But first…
Be aware that reporting and grant activity is generally your responsibility. It is important that all conditions of the grant be handled in a timely and professional manner, as this reflects on Lawrence as an institution. Poor grants management may even affect our ability to obtain future grants from the agency.
When a foundation or agency sends notice that they have awarded you a grant, you will receive an official award letter that explains the provisions of the grant. This letter will state information such as how you will receive your funds, project period, restrictions, and reporting requirements. Please bring this award letter, the check (if they sent one), and any other documentation to the CFSR office for processing.
Once we have the documentation, our office will notify the Finance Office of the award, and they will set up a fund account for you. When you need to spend money on your expenses, you may then charge to this account number rather than your department’s account. If any portion of your salary or your students’ research salary is to be paid by this grant, then you must make arrangements with the Payroll Office.
It is very important that you pay attention to the reporting deadlines. As always, we are more than happy to assist you in writing or submitting the reports. If you do submit a report, then please send us a copy for our records.
Once a grant has been awarded, we will send a Grant Award Memo to all interested parties in the university detailing who is responsible for what in the administration of the grant.
What If Your Application Is Rejected?
All is not lost! Use this as an opportunity to improve your proposal. Contact the program officer at the funding agency and try to get feedback on what you can do to better your chances for the next funding cycle. It is very possible that your proposal just needs some minor tweaking to make it successful next time. Being on good terms with the program officer can help in getting constructive advice on how to improve your proposal.