When applying for external funding, always pay close attention to the specific details of the funding call. The call description will clearly outline what you can and cannot apply for. Even within the same grant source, different instruments often have their own set of rules, so don’t assume that one size fits all.
That said, some general principles tend to be consistent across most grant sources’ instruments, and these MPE guidelines are intended to help you create a healthy budget that sets your project up for success and ensures MPE can host the project without concerns about its financial feasibility.
When preparing your budget, keep these points in mind:
Each funding call has unique rules. Ensure you understand what can and cannot be applied for within the scope of the call.
Each funding call has its own set of rules and restrictions. Always check what costs are eligible and ensure your budget aligns with the specific call requirements.
Even within a single grant source, different instruments may have distinct criteria for what you can and cannot apply to.
Even within the same grant source, different funding instruments may have distinct guidelines. Do not assume that the same rules apply to all applications under a single funding body.
You should check whether coverage for fixed VIP and fixed TAP is possible. This is one of the best options of ensuring the financial feasibility of your project.
For coverage to be counted positively, it must reflect salary paid to permanent VIP/TAP staff—i.e., those whose salaries are funded directly by MPE. When applying for their salary, make sure to select Coverage. Staff who are hired and fully funded through external projects do not count as coverage. Their salaries should be categorized as External Funding in the Tech Budget template.
If you are unsure about what to select, both the RSO and Nat-Tech Finance can assist you.