What is Sponsored Projects Administration?
Sponsored Projects Administration (SPA) supports faculty and staff in the pursuit and administration of external funding. This support allows Ball State faculty and staff to conduct research, provide mentored research experiences, train future scholars, pursue creative endeavors, expand instruction, and establish community partnerships, while enhancing the student experience and our commitment to the Muncie community.
A sponsored project starts with an idea for a project, which is matched with a funding opportunity. The idea is developed into a proposal, and eventually becomes an award. SPA facilitates the submission of proposals and management of awards for our constituents: faculty members, students, researchers, investigators, and scholars. We deliver high-quality expertise alongside exemplary service so that they can focus on their projects.
Specifically, SPA does this by providing education for faculty and staff about sponsored projects, preparing proposal budgets, submitting applications, and managing active awards; providing early seed funding through the Aspire Internal Grant Program and incentive programs; helping faculty and staff seek external funding opportunities; and overseeing matters related to external funding by complying with federal, state, and sponsor regulations.