Indirect Cost Policy

At the Food Allergy Fund, our goal is to ensure that the maximum amount of funding directly supports research and programs that improve the lives of individuals with food allergies. For this reason, our awards generally do not cover indirect costs, and such costs should not be included in the budget unless explicitly approved.

For the purposes of this policy, “indirect costs” are expenses incurred for common or joint objectives that cannot be readily attributed to a specific project or activity. Examples include, but are not limited to:

● General administration

● Utilities

● Depreciation

● Other centralized services

In the rare instances where indirect costs are permitted under the terms of an award, the following requirements apply:

● Maximum Rate: Indirect costs may not exceed 10% of the total approved direct costs of the award.

● Prior Approval: The proposed indirect cost rate must be approved in writing by a Food Allergy Fund representative before the award is issued.

● Budget Line Item: Indirect costs must be clearly identified as a separate line item in the proposed budget.

● Non-Reimbursable Costs: Any costs above the approved limit or not directly related to the project will not be reimbursed.

This policy applies to all grants, subgrants, and contracts awarded by the Food Allergy Fund, for all categories of recipients (domestic and international), unless otherwise required by law or specific award terms.

By adhering to this policy, the Food Allergy Fund ensures transparency, accountability, and consistency in managing indirect costs, while prioritizing funding for activities that directly advance our mission.