Federal Funding Updates
The University of Maine (UMaine) and University of Maine System (UMS) are closely monitoring recent federal developments following the inauguration of the new administration on January 20, 2025. Several executive orders have been issued, indicating potential shifts in federal priorities that could affect both current and pending federally funded projects.
The information and resources highlighted below are available for the University of Maine System universities. For questions or comments from any of these university communities, please contact research@maine.edu or (207) 581-1506. Moreover, UMS university communities are invited to directly contact Chris Boynton, Director of Research Administration at UMaine, with grant-specific questions or for better understanding of guidance from federal agencies. He can be reached at christoper.boynton@maine.edu or (207) 581-1472.
Proposal Submissions
Ongoing Submissions
UMaine will continue to submit proposals as long as federal agency submission systems remain operational.
Review Timelines
Be aware that sponsor proposal review timelines may be extended as federal agencies adjust to new directives.
Organizational Prior Approval System (OPAS) Forms
OPAS requests for pending proposals are not recommended at this time. Requests for these accounts will be evaluated cautiously, considering the evolving federal guidance and funding priorities.
Recommended Actions:
Award Management
Current Awards
The terms and conditions of active awards remain in effect. Continue standard operations, including invoicing and reimbursement processes. Any changes to your award will be communicated through official amendments.
Compliance Updates
Anticipate potential changes to research compliance requirements, which may be implemented directly by federal agencies or through project-specific amendments. Prompt action is essential to maintain compliance and secure funding. For general inquiries and inquiries about Animal Care, Biosafety, or Human Subjects: umric@maine.edu. Inquiries about Export Control: um.export@maine.edu.
Reporting Requirements
Be prepared for possible updates to award reporting obligations. These may be communicated directly by federal agencies or through amendments. Timely compliance is crucial to avoid jeopardizing funding. For support, contact ora@maine.edu.
Program Changes
If specific programs are terminated or restructured, accessing funds or meeting new criteria may become challenging. Federal agencies will typically provide guidance in such scenarios.
Procurement Considerations
Executive Orders Impact
Recent executive orders and potential future directives, such as those related to tariffs, may significantly affect procurement processes for federally funded projects. Stay informed about these developments and incorporate them into your planning to ensure compliance and minimize disruptions.
Additional Resources
Executive Actions
Stay updated on recent executive actions by visiting the official White House website.
Sponsor-Specific Guidance
For detailed guidance from specific sponsors, refer to their official communications or websites.
The Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU®) Overview of President Trump’s Executive Orders.
UMaine remains committed to supporting its research community and others from across the UMS universities during this period of transition. We will continue to provide updates and guidance as new information becomes available. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact research@maine.edu or (207) 581-1506.
By staying informed and proactive, we can navigate these changes effectively and continue advancing our research mission.