The document outlines the structure, objectives, and ongoing initiatives of the Nonprofit Funder-Research Institution (NFRI) Partnership, a collaborative effort between nonprofit funders and research institutions to address common challenges in grant management, particularly in the areas of intellectual property (IP) and technology transfer, research project support costs (F&A), and streamlining administrative requirements. Coordinated through working groups and regular meetings, the NFRI Partnership seeks to develop practical solutions and best practices that benefit both funders and research institutions. Key initiatives include expanding the Federal Demonstration Partnership (FDP) Clearinghouse to enhance information sharing, collaborating with grants management system providers (such as Altum) to streamline application and reporting processes, and promoting "just-in-time" information submission to reduce unnecessary effort.
The partnership also convenes specialized subgroups addressing financial reporting and invoicing, contracting, and intellectual property issues such as patient access, licensing control, and royalty sharing. These subgroups engage in systematic review of current practices, develop standardized templates and guidelines, and aim for consensus on complex issues like royalty distribution and contract provisions. Emphasis is placed on communication, consistency, and mutual understanding to reduce administrative burden, enhance compliance, and foster innovation and patient access. The document further highlights efforts to standardize application processes, financial reporting timelines, and the negotiation of intellectual property terms, emphasizing ongoing stakeholder engagement, surveys, and collaborative policy development. Overall, the NFRI Partnership represents a concerted effort to address the operational, financial, and legal complexities inherent in nonprofit-funded academic research, with the goal of improving efficiency and outcomes for all parties involved.
