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Prize Awards that are given in recognition of research and development accomplishments – such as the National Medal of Science, National Medal of Technology and Innovation, or the Nobel prizes – are typically given to individuals and will likely not require Office of Contracts and Grants (OCG) involvement.

Prize Competitions are an alternative funding mechanism that aim to incentivize research and development differently from grants and contracts. Individuals or teams typically compete for funding that will be awarded to the ²ÊÃñ±¦µä. Most competitions will have terms and conditions that require OCG involvement.

Funding can come from:

• Federal agencies
• State agencies
• Companies
• Private individuals
• Foundations

Prize Competitions may award funding at various points of a competition, such as by providing funding for travel to participate or rewarding sponsored project results.

For researchers who plan to apply for a Prize Competition, please reach out to your OCG Proposal Analyst for help interpreting eligibility requirements, terms and conditions, or other issues that may impact competition entry or success. Prize Competitions require a proposal and are treated as sponsored programs. Prize Competition awards are not charitable contributions and cannot be considered gifts.