The Sponsored Program Administration (SPA) proposal deadline policy has been revised to ensure submission of the highest quality proposal. Thorough review prior to submission increases the probability of funding and provides the basis for easy transition to post-award if the proposal results in an award. The changes will go into effect beginning with sponsor deadlines of January 9, 2023.

The changes are necessary due to an increase in the number of proposals requiring a more comprehensive level of review coupled with a high volume of proposals received on deadline day. These factors create an unnecessary risk of proposals not being submitted by the sponsor’s deadline. The standard deadline proposal guidelines remain unchanged at three business days prior to the sponsor’s deadline, with an additional two days for certain proposals as outlined in the policy. However, some policy changes have been made to address those proposals that are not received in a timely manner.

An “at risk” designation has been added to those proposals received less than 24 hours prior to the sponsor’s deadline. At risk proposals must be endorsed by the appropriate school/college research dean prior to review by SPA. Reasonable efforts will be made to submit these proposals, but they will not receive the same level of review, and a successful submission is not guaranteed.

Please note that proposals received less than two hours prior to the funding agency’s deadline will not be submitted.

The revised guidelines also include tips for a successful submission. Most importantly, communication with the grant & contract officer prior to submission is key. SPA values the partnership afforded by early communication. If you have any questions regarding the policy revisions, please contact Gail Ryan, associate vice president, at 577-6595.