Welcome back to MicroLearning Mondays, our biweekly series of bite-sized research administration trainings brought to you by the Department of Contracts and Grants.
This week’s topic: Making Sense of Research Terms: Non-Federal Awards and Service Agreements
Why It Matters: Not all sponsored funding follows the same rules. Understanding the difference between non-federal awards and service agreements is critical to ensuring compliance, proper routing, and accurate financial management. Misinterpreting terms can lead to compliance issues, billing errors, or unfulfilled obligations. When USC accepts funding (whether from a foundation, corporation, or other entity), we enter into a legally binding commitment. Knowing where to find and how to interpret your award or agreement terms helps protect your project, your Principal Investigator, and the university’s reputation.
In This Video, You’ll Learn:
What distinguishes a Non-Federal Award from a Service Agreement.
Why non-federal sponsors often include unique or non-standard clauses.
How to prevent compliance issues by reviewing terms early and involving the right offices before signature.
How to access and review your award terms in the Cayuse SP system.
👉 Watch Making Sense of Research Terms: Non-Federal Awards and Service Agreements
Questions or Feedback?
We’re here to help! For anything related to MicroLearning Mondays, please reach out to Noah Congelliere in the Department of Contracts and Grants.