Spring 2019 PIF Report

The Provost’s Investment Fund (PIF) was designed to ensure that the Provost is empowered to respond to requests from across campus within the framework of RCM guiding principles and the university mission, while maintaining the ability to proactively invest in other priorities not previously identified by other units.  These investments are on-time funds that provide a sizable share of revenue to support those units that seek additional financial support, which include instructional programs, student programs, IT or enterprise projects, research support, and research/instructional infrastructure.  In FY18, we had a shortfall of $17.7 million in tuition revenues, which ultimately impacted the RCM Budget Allocation Model in FY19. When the model was established, PIF was set up to ramp up over three years with a target of collecting 3.5% in FY19, up from 2.75% in FY18. It was decided to decrease the investment rate to 2% resulting in lower allocation to the investment funds. We will have a slight increase in FY20 with 2.33% investment percentage.

In Spring 2019, 37 proposals were submitted asking for approximately $50M in funds over a 3-year investment cycle with nine of those approved for a total amount of $5,489,142 after review by an advisory committee and the provost. 

From FY18 through FY20 the Provost invested a cumulative total of one-time payouts over a 3-year period of approximately $22M, $28M, and $24M respectively (see graph below).  For a complete list of units and the funds allocated and committed, see Appendix A.

Additionally, funds are allocated by “category” and the majority of commitments were awarded in the following categories:  provost commitments (which include research support/infrastructure, new program/degree initiatives, classroom renovations, and faculty and instructional support), hiring commitments, and administrative stipends (see table below).

The process for approval is competitive and submissions must meet several essential criteria.  For more information about the process, call for proposals, and deadlines, visit https://provost.arizona.edu/provost-investment-fund.  

Each of the approved proposals outlined goals that aligned with the UA strategic plan and demonstrated fiscal and operational sustainability, which met the criteria for approval. Congratulations to all the Spring 2019 PIF recipients for their leadership, innovation, and important work to advance the vision of the University of Arizona.

Below is a list of the recipients.  For more information about the monetary award amount, and a summary of their project/initiative, click on the recipient link.