Viterbi Conference & Research (VCR) Funding

Supplemental Funding for Viterbi Students & Organizations


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What Is VCR?

Viterbi Conference & Research (VCR) funding is available to Viterbi-affiliated student organizations through Viterbi Admission & Student Engagement and for Viterbi students. VCR funding is endowment-based and limited; the amount available varies from year to year. VCR funding is a supplement to the funding organizations and students receive from other sources. VCR is the LAST place from which organizations and individuals should seek funds. Organizations and students should never rely solely on this source to fund an entire event, program, or conference. Funding is limited each academic year.

Key Points

  • VCR is endowment-based and limited.
  • Funding amount varies from year to year.
  • Meant to supplement other funding sources (last resort).

Overview

Discover snapshots of Viterbi’s dynamic, real-world experiences—from collaborative research to global conferences and hands-on projects that broaden horizons.

Singapore skyline
Hong Kong cityscape
Students gathered outdoors
Collaborative project
Viterbi Connect SPE event
Student racing project

How It Works

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Step 1: Plan

Consider the following when planning:

  • Conference and registration fees
  • Hotel & lodging
  • Flights & travel

Start early to avoid last-minute challenges.

💰

Step 2: Find Funding

Seek funding from your academic department, the Undergraduate and Graduate Student Government, and other campus and external resources. VCR funding should be a last resort.

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Step 3: Submission & Approvals

Complete the Airtable application. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the VCR Committee. If approved, you'll receive guidance from the VASE Business Office for processing.

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Step 4: Attend the Conference

Make the most of your experience—network, present, and learn!

IV. General Policies

Please review the following policies to ensure you meet all requirements
before submitting your application for VCR funding.

Application Completion

Only complete applications will be reviewed. Make sure you fill out
every required field and provide all necessary documents prior to
submission.

Cost-Sharing Expectation

A partial cost share is expected for travel-related events.
Reimbursement awards may be granted based on approved amounts
and actual attendance costs.

Record of Funds

The VCR Committee keeps thorough records of students and
organizations who receive funds, ensuring accountability
and proper documentation.

Contract/Agreement Restrictions

No unauthorized student signatures. All agreements
(venue, catering, speaker, etc.) must be signed by authorized
university personnel only. Any agreement containing an
unauthorized student signature cannot be funded.

Application Requirements

Before submitting your VCR funding application, please review the items below to ensure you have all the necessary details and documentation.

Line Item Budget

Prepare a thorough breakdown of your event or travel costs. This budget should include a summary of all existing funding sources (department grants, external sponsorship, etc.).

Documentation

Be ready to provide any supporting materials based on your status—student organization vs. individual applicant. Additional questions or forms may be required during the process.

Note on Incomplete Applications

No review will be conducted for applications missing essential information or documentation. Make sure every field is filled out and every required file is uploaded before submission.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Secure your VCR funding by selecting the application that fits your needs. Don’t miss out on valuable support for conferences, research, and more!

After submitting your application, it will be added to the next review period for the VCR Committee. If approved, you will receive guidance from the VASE Business Office on processing and reimbursement.

*Program Update (February 11, 2025): VCR has concluded accepting applications for the 2024-2025 academic year, as all award funding has been allocated.

For additional questions, please contact kgiang@usc.edu.

Published on August 30th, 2024Last updated on February 19th, 2025