These applications are administratively reviewed for basic eligibility and completeness before undergoing close scientific evaluation by the Research Grant Review Panel. The budget is annually approved by the American Diabetes Association Board of Directors. Affiliates play a key role in the Nationwide Research Program. Voluntary contributions made by affiliates above divisible income can significantly increase the total nationwide research budget and, therefore, the total number of high quality projects that can be supported. Affiliates also act as the critical link in bringing the message of the hope and promise of research to those who live with diabetes every day.
Research involves both direct and indirect costs.
Direct costs are those which are incurred by the project directly, such as equipment, supplies, and technical support. Association funds are used to support only the direct costs of research. Research benefits all people regardless of where they live or where the funds are raised. The geographic location of a researcher's laboratory does not determine the quality or likelihood of success of the project. The peer-review system used by the Association is designed to recommend projects for funding based only upon the scientific merit of the proposed research.