New Applications T hese applications are for new projects which must compete against all other new or renewal applications. Within this category, proposals can be submitted in response to the general mandate of the agency or in response to a special announcement. Typically an application submitted in response to an RFA or an RFP has to compete with only those proposals submitted in response to that particular announcement. Those submitted in response to an Ongoing Program Announcement typically have to compete with the general pool but may receive special consideration for funding.
New applications are generally for several years or budget periods.
While budget periods are typically of one year duration, depending upon the agency, the announcement, and the nature of the program, they can extend for a greater or lesser period of time. The total period of time for which the agency indicates that it will award funds for the project is called the project period. For new applications to many sponsoring agencies such as the Public Health Service, a grace period is given after the submission date in order for the investigator to obtain necessary human subject, animal, biohazard, etc. clearance. Please check your specific application guidelines to determine if a grace period is offered. In all cases, it is required that such approvals be in place prior to the start of funding and be maintained during the research period of performance.