What is the difference between a research grant and contract?
The lines blur between the two, but generally:
Grant
Refers to funds that are awarded to the recipient to enable the performance of self-directed research without contractual obligation for performance.
You likely applied for a grant if:
- the funding is not tied to specific outcomes
- there is no transfer of results to the sponsor
- there is no funding for the principal investigator’s time
- intellectual property is treated in accordance with VIU’s policies and practices
Contract
Refers to funds that are assigned for research purposes through a legally enforceable agreement which may include specific terms governing the conduct, direction and scheduling of the tasks to be performed; designating ownership of proprietary rights to the research results; laying out the financial regimen to be followed; and other restrictions required by the research sponsor.
A contract is required if:
- there is a set budget and payment schedule based on deliverables; and/or
- there are discussions around confidentiality, intellectual property ownership, or liability