NSF Conference Grants support conferences, workshops, and related training activities in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematical) disciplines. In accordance with the most recent NSF PAPPG (NSF 19-1), conference proposals that exceed $50K must include Collaborators & Other Affiliations information during the proposal submission.

Additionally, conference proposers must have a policy or code-of-conduct that addresses sexual harassment, other forms of harassment, or sexual assault, that includes a clear means of reporting violations. The policy and reporting means should be disseminated to conference participants prior to attendance and made available during the conference itself.

Finally, additional clarification has been provided on Participant Support Costs. NSF defines participant support as “…direct costs for items such as stipends or subsistence allowances, travel allowances, and registration fees paid to or on behalf of participants or trainees (but not employees) in connection with NSF-sponsored conferences or training projects.”¹Speakers and trainers are not considered participants and therefore associated costs should be budgeted under Personnel (if CSU employees) or Other Direct Costs (if not a CSU employee). Also, participant support costs may not be budgeted to cover room rental fees, catering costs, supplies, etc. related to an NSF-sponsored conference.

A good rule of thumb when determining participant support is to ask if the primary purpose of the individual’s attendance at the conference is learning and receiving training. If yes, then budget under participant support. Likewise for associated costs like meals and housing. If the costs directly benefit the participant, then budget under participant support. If the primary purpose is to speak or assist with management of the conference, then such costs should be budgeted in appropriate categories other than participant support.

For these and other updates to the PAPPG, refer to: https://www.nsf.gov/pubs/policydocs/pappg19_1/nsf19_1.pdf