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Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP)

The Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) supports Rust College faculty and staff in securing and managing external funding from federal, state, corporate, and private foundation sources. OSP works collaboratively with campus leadership to develop competitive proposals, ensure compliance with sponsor requirements, and manage awarded projects effectively.

Through sponsored research, workforce development initiatives, and community partnerships, the Office of Sponsored Programs helps advance Rust College’s mission of academic excellence, innovation, and service.

What We Do

Funding Identification

Helping faculty and departments identify grant opportunities aligned with institutional priorities.

Proposal Development

Assisting with proposal preparation, narrative development, budget construction, and submission requirements.

Compliance and Administration

Ensuring proposals and awards comply with sponsor guidelines, institutional policies, and federal regulations.

Award Management

Supporting project directors with reporting requirements, budget monitoring, and sponsor communication.

Strategic Partnerships

Facilitating collaborations with government agencies, foundations, industry partners, and community organizations.

Types of Funding We Support

The Office of Sponsored Programs assists with proposals to a wide range of sponsors, including:

  • Federal agencies (NSF, Department of Education, DOJ, USDA, etc.)
  • State agencies and regional organizations
  • Private foundations
  • Corporate and industry partnerships
  • Congressionally directed funding initiatives

These projects support initiatives such as:

  • STEM education and research
  • Workforce and economic development
  • Community engagement
  • Infrastructure and campus development
  • Student success and retention initiatives

Working With OSP

Faculty and staff interested in pursuing external funding are encouraged to contact the Office of Sponsored Programs early in the proposal development process.

OSP can assist with:

  • Reviewing funding opportunity announcements
  • Developing proposal narratives
  • Creating compliant project budgets
  • Coordinating institutional approvals
  • Submitting proposals through sponsor portals

Early coordination helps ensure proposals meet sponsor requirements and institutional priorities.

Contact Information

Office of Sponsored Programs

Rust College
Email: grants@rustcollege.edu
Phone: 662-252-8000 ext. 4000