2 The National Institutes of Health as a Grant-Making Organization

NIH is the steward of medical and behavioral research for the Nation. Its mission is to seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability. NIH operates under the general policy guidance of the Department in carrying out its mission, which is accomplished through the conduct and support of biomedical and behavioral research, research training, research infrastructure, and communications. These efforts take place intramurally (primarily at NIH) and extramurally (through grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts awarded to institutions of higher education, governmental organizations, non-profit research organizations, commercial organizations An organization, institution, corporation, or other legal entity, including, but not limited to, partnerships, sole proprietorships, and limited liability companies, that is organized or operated for the profit or benefit of its shareholders or other owners. The term includes small and large businesses and is used interchangeably with "for-profit organization.", and individuals). NIH also works closely with other HHS components and other Federal departments and agencies. HHS components include SAMHSA, FDA, CDC, IHS, AHRQ, HRSA, ACF, ACL, OASH, and CMS, among others.

The rules that govern grants and cooperative agreements detailed at 2 CFR Part 200 and 45 CFR Part 75 (Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements), and in certain cases further codified through HHS regulation, provide the framework for the terms and conditions of NIH awards, as specified in Part II: Terms and Conditions of NIH Grant Awards.

NIH is organized into ICs, which have their own mission and functions, separate appropriations, and statutory authorities. The ICs that award grants and their points of contact are listed in Part III. Although the ICs operate under the same general grant process and requirements, applicants and recipients need to be aware of differences that may exist. This information may be obtained from NIH IC The NIH organizational component responsible for a particular grant program or set of activities. The terms "NIH IC," or "awarding IC" are used throughout this document to designate a point of contact for advice and interpretation of grant requirements and to establish the focal point for requesting necessary prior approvals or changes in the terms and conditions of award. staff. The policies generally applicable to NIH grants are set forth in the NIHGPS.