There is no set figure for the amount of external sponsorship. Yes, external funds may come from any country. Running costs are not eligible. This is the amount requested from a Research Council i.e. the total cost of the equipment including customisation or upgrading, minus the external contribution and any institutional top-up. Yes, customisation costs, including any associated staff costs, should be included in the calculations of total costs of equipment.
Discounts are eligible as an external contribution.
Applicants are, however, encouraged not to make this their only external contribution. When calculating the cost of the items of equipment requested, applicants should subtract the standard educational discount that normally applies to purchases by universities. Applicants should seek value for money in their purchases. If applications are submitted without adjusting figures to take account of the standard educational discount, the application may be given a lower grade or funds may be awarded at a lower rate. An application that was unsuccessful last year cannot be resubmitted unless it is substantially revised.