What is cost sharing (matching)?
Cost sharing is a term describing any situation where a sponsor does not fully reimburse the University for all allowable costs associated with a specific project and the University or a third party assumes such costs in some manner. Cost sharing may be in cash or in-kind, where services or goods are donated to a project rather than purchased. The value of in-kind contributions must be established at the time of proposal submission and verified and documented at the post award stage. When the contribution is in the form of personal services, the contributor must certify that the amount being provided as in-kind is comparable to the individual’s regular rate of compensation. When in-kind contributions are other than personal services, the fair market value of the item must be established, consistent with 2 CFR Part 215 procedures. For assistance with determining proper valuation, contact the Office of Sponsored Programs.
