The federal government has reopened and we expect funding agencies to resume all operations immediately that had lapsed during the shutdown. The primary impact we anticipate is an influx of new awards as federal agencies begin processing a significant backlog of research-related activities.
What This Means for You: Key Guidance on Sponsored Funding
Existing Grants/Payments
During the shutdown, spending, billing, and payment receipts on existing awards proceeded with no disruptions. With resumed operations, researchers can expect normal spending, billing, and payment cycles to continue.
Pending New Awards/Supplements
Anticipate some delays due to the existing backlog at the federal agencies. Principal investigators (PIs) expecting news on submitted proposals should anticipate extended timelines for review, panel scheduling, and final funding decisions.
Prior Approval Requests
Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA) has continued to submit requests (e.g., no-cost extensions, budget changes) to sponsors during the shutdown, though PIs must still wait for the prior approval to come through before proceeding. While responses from agencies may be delayed, if there are any requests where a response is time sensitive, please work with your GCO for follow up actions.
Reporting
PIs should continue to submit all outstanding technical reports by their original or extended deadlines. Agency systems continue to be operational, and timely submission is required to avoid potential penalties or holds on new funding.
Navigating the Backlog
We understand the frustration that could be caused by agency delays in processing new awards or amendments to existing awards. SPA is focused on the following to minimize the impact on your research:
- Prioritizing Critical Actions: SPA is prioritizing incoming award notices and contract actions to establish new accounts as quickly as award notifications are received.
- Monitoring Agency Updates: We are continuously tracking communications from NIH, NSF, DoD, and other agencies for guidance on new proposal due dates and backlog resolution plans.
Please direct any questions regarding specific project status or administration to your assigned SPA grant and contract officer (GCO).