Support Resources

The foundation funding process can look very different depending on the opportunity you are interested in pursuing. The resources below are designed to help Faculty, Research Administrators and Support Staff navigate through the foundation funding process. University Development and the Research Administration collaborate based on RAUD / RA04.

If you don’t see what you are looking for, please see our FAQs, or reach out to our office.

Pre-Award Support

Foundation Relations

  • Strategic planning related to identifying foundations for possible funding;
  • Advise PI on LOI/proposal requirements;
  • Provide guidance about the foundation or application process;
  • Coordinate, assist and participate in meetings with program officers;
  • Proposal development related to reviewing and providing feedback on application materials;
  • Collaborate with Research Administrators on most submissions.

 

Research Administration / Grants and Contracts

  • Develop budgets including F&A where applicable;
  • Collect supporting documents such as letters of support and CVs/bio-sketches;
  • Conduct compliance review;
  • Facilitate/coordinate cost-share approvals.

 

Office of Sponsored Programs

  • Process and negotiate contracts and all other agreements;
  • Review and confirm terms and conditions.
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Get in Touch with Us

For general inquiries, please email the Foundation Relations team at foundations@psu.edu or call 814-863-4308.

Writing Resources

When you are ready to begin writing your request for funding, it is critical to develop a cohesive and compelling case for support. The most competitive applications specifically address the foundation’s priorities. We encourage applicants to read the grant guidelines carefully and respond precisely to the information requested.

Guides and Supporting Materials:

Post-Award Support

Foundation Relations

  • Send acknowledgement letters to the Foundation program officer if funded and our office assisted with the proposal;
  • Send reminders for narrative and financial reports to Primary Investigator 4-6 weeks prior to due date;
  • Communicate with Foundations regarding shifts in projects or budgets;
  • Coordinate with Foundations and Penn State Development Communications on press releases.

 

Research Administration / Grants and Contracts

  • Establish grant accounts;
  • Manage award budgets.

 

Office of Sponsored Programs:

  • Obtain required signatures for grant agreements;
  • Coordinate with Research Administrators to ensure that all sponsored funds are administered in accordance with the agreed upon terms and conditions.