Institutional Partnerships FAQ

• Brainstorm and discuss project ideas
• Research and identify relevant funding sources
• Build relationships with prospective and existing funding partners
• Clarify and advise on application guidelines
• Provide project and proposal templates (e.g., budget)
• Review and edit proposal materials and help supply supporting materials
• Assist in coordinating multi-disciplinary projects and proposal planning (i.e., meetings, approvals, signatures) with collaborating administrators and faculty across departments

To ensure that the University adheres to the guidelines established by funding organizations, it is highly recommended that faculty, staff, and administrators notify the IP team before contacting any foundation, corporation, or government agency. Funders often restrict submissions from a single institution (e.g., Catholic University) to one proposal per year or application cycle. Funding organizations may also have existing relationships with other University divisions, departments, faculty members, and staff. The IP team will determine if there is an existing relationship and help manage any competing interests.

While both offices collaborate frequently, they perform distinct functions:

IP, housed within the Division of University Advancement, partners with faculty and staff across the University to establish relationships with foundations, corporations, and government agencies. Their focus is on securing funding for research, programs, and student success initiatives. IP also aids in developing proposal packages for funders.

OSP, located within the Office of the Provost, serves as the primary contact for academic coordination and approval related to proposal submission, award acceptance, and the administration of internal research funding. Additionally, OSP oversees University research and technology transfer efforts, among other responsibilities.

University Advancement has development officers dedicated to each school who focus on individual donor support. IP staff coordinate their efforts with these development officers in academic schools and departments, especially when both individual and institutional prospects are approached for the same project.

It is advisable to inform your leader once you have gathered sufficient information about the funding opportunity. Your leader will need to understand the time and resources required for the application process. Your dean should provide written approval via email to the IP contact handling your grant submission.

The IP team collaborates with offices and divisions beyond academic administration, including departments within Student Affairs such as Athletics, the Center for Academic and Career Success, and the Center for Cultural Engagement. If you have an idea for an externally funded project, please contact our team, and we will connect you with the appropriate member who can assist you.

The IP team utilizes funder databases and other resources to identify potential funding sources that can support your project or program.