Phase 1 — Immediate Response (Days 0–7)

Objectives

• Understand the terms of the award.

• Confirm acceptance requirements.

• Notify all relevant stakeholders.

• Establish project ownership and immediate next steps.

Activities

Review the Award Documentation

Read the complete Notice of Award (NOA), Grant Agreement, or Award Letter.

Pay particular attention to:

• Total award amount.

• Budget periods and funding schedules.

• Approved versus requested budgets.

• Project start and end dates.

• Reporting requirements.

• Compliance obligations.

• Procurement restrictions.

• Intellectual property provisions.

• Data sharing requirements.

• Publication requirements.

• Branding and communications obligations.

• Required approvals before fund release.

Prepare an Award Summary Sheet

Develop a one-page document containing:

• Project title.

• Funder name.

• Award amount.

• Project duration.

• Budget periods.

• Reporting deadlines.

• Special award conditions.

• Required approvals.

• Internal project lead.

• Expected disbursement timelines.