Sponsors

Sponsors of international projects may take many forms, including governments, foundations, state-owned or independent corporations, or individuals. As with domestic projects, many major international engagements have a combination of sponsors.

For international projects, it is particularly important to understand the relationship between MIT and the sponsor(s), and any constraints that may impact your activities as a result of their status. In some cases foreign sponsors may not have a good understanding of MIT, including how funding research works (e.g. cost structures and procedures, overhead treatment, commitments to students and post-docs, etc.) and they may need background on these matters.

• Do they have a history and track record with working with MIT and if so, are they viewed positively?
• What is their reputation domestically and internationally?
• Are they considered an ethical partner?
• What is their relationship with their own government (for example, are they involved in military or classified work with their own government)?
• How are they viewed by the U.S. Federal Government (e.g. are they on any Visual Compliance or other restricted party watchlists)?

Common answers include conducting interesting research, getting access to the newest ideas, identifying qualified students as potential employees, and/or enhancing its reputation by being able to say they are working with MIT. The question can lead to a very useful and beneficial discussion.