FAQ
Explore the Grant
FAQ 1: Why do we need EDGE?
EDGE provides early-stage funding to pilot new initiatives or strengthen existing programs with the explicit goal of building an evidence base that demonstrates measurable impact to address equity gaps among faculty, staff, and students at Penn State.
FAQ 2: Can I use AI?
Yes. EDGE anticipates the responsible and ethical use of AI tools in the grant process. AI use is optional, and PIs may opt out via the proposal form.
FAQ 3: What is in-kind support?
In-kind support is support that does not involve direct dollar contributions. Examples include staff time, use of facilities, and use of equipment when no direct fee is charged.
FAQ 4: How long can a PI seek funding?
EDGE awards are renewable but not guaranteed for up to five years, with funding reduced by about 20% annually. Programs funded initially by EDGE that prove to be successful should, in time, become part of a unit's regular operating budget, or obtain support through external funding sources.
Apply for Funding
FAQ 1: What makes a proposal competitive?
Successful proposals provide detailed goals, outcomes, and assessment methods, and clearly explain the need for funding and the intended impact of the program.
FAQ 2: Do I need unit funding?
Yes. Unit contribution is required for all EDGE proposals and must be listed on the budget sheet.
FAQ 3: Is funding guaranteed after the first year?
No. Renewal is not guaranteed and depends on annual progress, continued need, and the quality of the renewal proposal.
FAQ 4: Can student conference participation be funded?
Yes, but only if the student is presenting, and the support must be equally shared with the academic department.
FAQ 5: Can faculty or staff conference attendance be funded?
Only when it supports student presentations at a conference and is shared with the unit.
Manage Your Award
FAQ 1: What happens if we do not use all the funds?
Unused program funds must be returned to EDGE.
FAQ 2: What if we want to renew the project?
Submit a new proposal each year and complete all required reporting and check-in activities. Renewal is not guaranteed.
FAQ 3: What if our project becomes successful?
EDGE expects successful programs to transition toward unit support or external funding over time.
FAQ 4: Do we need to report on AI use?
Yes, if AI was used. Reflection on AI tools and their effectiveness is part of the annual report.
FAQ 5: Where can we get help?
Administrative support may include proposal guidance, assessment planning, budget support, renewal coaching, and technical assistance for ethical AI use.
Other
FAQ 1: Can EDGE funds be used for faculty buyout or research grants?
No.
FAQ 2: Can EDGE funds be used to hire staff?
EDGE will consider funding graduate and/or undergraduate students on wages or wages/honoraria for nine- or ten-month full-time Penn State faculty and staff if they work on an EDGE program during their "noncontract" period. EDGE funds cannot be used for wages or honoraria for 12-month full-time Penn State faculty/staff.
FAQ 3: Can EDGE funds be used for graduate assistantships or scholarships?
No, but EDGE will conisder funding part-time graduate student hourly wages.
FAQ 4: Can EDGE funds be used to purchase gift cards?
No.
FAQ 5: Is there a limit to the amount of funding one can request from EDGE?
No, but proposal reviewers are more inclined to fund a program that exhibits good stewardship of University funds. When developing the program budget, consider if the cost of the program: meets the need; is reasonable per participant; and, is being supported by your unit with twenty percent of the overall program cost.
FAQ 6: What is the suggested decrease in EDGE funding per grant renewal?
Twenty percent.