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Federal
Other Funding Types
Most federal grants are subject to the Research Terms and Conditions established by the Federal Demonstration Partnership (FDP).
Most federal contracts are subject to the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). See the FAR Matrix, Penn State’s Negotiation Tool and the FAR Website for current and archived versions of the FAR. These clauses do not apply to federal grants and cooperative agreements.
Federal grants and contracts are both subject to components of the Uniform Guidance (UG). UG training videos can be found here and a summary of recent developments can be found here.
Intellectual Property generated on Federal Funds is subject to the Bayh-Dole Act (37 CFR 401).
Additional federal terms and conditions can be found here.
Pre-Award Spending
The Pre‑Award Cost Authorization (PCA) form allows units to request approval to incur allowable pre‑award costs on federal assistance awards in anticipation of funding. Pre‑award costs may be authorized when an award is expected within 90 days and are necessary for timely project execution.
Pre‑award spending may also involve an Advanced Account, which permits spending prior to official award notification when there is a high likelihood of funding. Units assume full financial risk if the award or amendment does not materialize, and all required compliance approvals must be completed before funds are established.
Advanced Account requests are submitted via the Internal Approval Form (IAF).
In accordance with the Uniform Guidance § 200.458, “written approval” by the Federal agency is required. When submitting the PCA form to OSP, please indicate where the Federal agency’s authorization for pre‑award spending is documented, including the relevant citation or supporting documentation.
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Email: osp@psu.edu