Tips: August 30, 2019

Following are tips on using SPARCS -

• FY20 Rates: The FY20 rates have been announced and distributed. As such SPARCS has also been updated along with the SPARCS Budgeting tool. The OSP website is also in the process of being updated. Please remember to use the new rate when preparing budgets.
• Application Type: We have recently updated the definitions for the various application types to better reflect the intended purpose of each option. Please see below for the current definitions:
  • New: An application for funding that is being submitted to the specified sponsor for the first time.
  • Revised Budget: A change to the budget of a previously submitted funding request in response to a specific request from the sponsor, or otherwise requires that an OSP Specialist approve, submit, or sign off on the revised information. Note that a budget which only requires internal updates to match the amount awarded by the sponsor is a reconciled budget, and should be completed when the award is set up: it does not require a Revised Budget submission.
  • Resubmission: An application that was previously not selected for funding which modifies the previously submitted application by addressing the concerns of the reviewers. This application may also include newly discovered information or methods.
  • Renewal: An application requesting additional funding, over and above what was originally proposed. This will include a new or significantly modified scope of work.
  • Revision/Supplemental: An application requesting additional funding within the scope of work on a currently active award. The period of performance will be within the original award’s period of performance. This application type is uncommon; it usually requires sponsor-specific instruction and submission process, and is mainly applicable to federal sponsors.