What is an Early Center? How do we set one up?

An Early Center is a mechanism that allows a PI to spend on an award prior to completion of negotiation of an award, receipt of an amendment or fully executed award document. A written authorization from the sponsor may also be needed based on award terms. These do require approval by LTI's Department Head, Dean's Office, and OSP. Please note, in the case that expenses are made on an Early Center and the award is retracted by the sponsor, the PI is liable for paying for those expenses from their discretionary account(s).