There are many requirements that regulate award activities and spending, including:
- Federal regulations (e.g. Uniform Guidance): The UG is a framework for federal entities to manage awards in the areas of administrative requirements, procurement standards, and audits.
- Agency Guidelines (e.g. NIH Grants Policy Statement, NSF Proposal Award Policies and Procedures Guide): Federal agencies use the UG and other federal regulations to establish their own guidelines for funding recipients.
- Agency Program Guidelines (e.g. NIH Career Development Awards): Specific agency programs may have additional guidelines or restrictions such as a minimum effort requirement. These may also be listed in the Notice of Funding Opportunity guidelines.
- The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Guidelines: (pre-award only) NOFO guidelines list additional guidelines specific to this funding opportunity.
- The Notice of Award (NOA): For awards, NOAs may have additional restrictions or requirements that apply to the specific award.
- WashU policies: University policies and guidelines clarify and standardize the University’s interpretation and implementation of sponsor policies. WashU policies may also include additional requirements or restrictions.
All policies and regulations must be followed. At times, there may be conflicting guidance. In those situations, follow the more specific policy, typically whichever appears nearest the bottom of the oversight triangle below. For example, if the agency guidelines state that there are no travel restrictions, but the Notice of Award indicates funds cannot be used for international travel, follow the NOA guidelines because they appear furthest down on the triangle.
