Overheads

If mentioned in the Call Specifications of the specific call for funding you applied for, WWTF funds a flat-rate allowance (overhead) of up to 20%. Overhead funding is intended to cover part of the indirect costs incurred related to the implementation of a funded project.

The following indirect costs are thus covered (albeit only partially) (list not exhaustive):

• Costs for electricity and heating,
• room rentals for offices or laboratories at the funded research sites,
• costs for common areas such as kitchens,
• all other costs incurred for buildings (facility management, cleaning costs),
• general telephone costs,
• costs for internet and general IT services (including the costs for standard office software),
• standard office supplies,
• workplace cost contributions,
• payroll, personnel administration, and project accounting costs of the central administration,
• costs for library access and journal subscriptions at the research facility.

Applicants may, but are not required to, apply for and charge this overhead of up to 20%.

If institutions waive all or part of the overhead funding, more direct costs can be funded by WWTF. In the case of VRG projects and other projects where a contribution of own resources (in-kind) is required, this waiver is considered a contribution of own resources.

There is no obligation to provide evidence of the overhead costs invoiced to the funding body. The same applies to overhead costs that benefit the project as a result of internal regulations.

For additional measures ("Ergänzende Instrumente") and projects based on special funding guidelines, an overhead rate must be specified separately in the Call Specifications. Overhead reimbursements may also be waived.