Chapter II.B.1.a, Changes in Objectives or Scope, has been supplemented with language clarifying that prior NSF approval is required for any change to the Facilities, Equipment, and Other Resources section of the approved proposal that would constitute a change in objective or scope.

Chapter II.D, Cost Sharing, has been revised to implement the National Science Board’s recommendations regarding cost sharing. Inclusion of voluntary committed cost sharing is prohibited. When mandatory cost sharing is included on Line M and accepted by NSF, the commitment of funds becomes legally binding and is subject to audit. Failure to provide the level of cost sharing required by the NSF solicitation and reflected in the approved award budget may result in termination of the NSF award, disallowance of award costs and/or refund of award funds to NSF by the awardee. Language also has been added to clarify when notifications are considered due and overdue.

Chapter II.D.3, Project Outcomes Report for the General Public, has been updated to specify that the Project Outcomes Report for the General Public will be posted in the Research Spending and Results section of the Research.gov website.