From its beginning, it was envisioned that NERC would be most appropriately supported by multiple federal, state, and private sponsors. The involvement of stakeholders will facilitate consensus regarding experimental design and acceptance of results and conclusions. Moreover, the Center's research and operating strategy requires a higher level of funding than presently provided by EPA. The Center Affiliates program is the mechanism by which non-federal sponsors support NERC.

Qualifications and Benefits

Individual organizations contributing a minimum of $25 thousand/year are designated as Center Affiliates. Lessor contributions are welcomed, but do not qualify for Affiliate status. The qualifying amount may change in future years. Both industry associations and individual companies may become Center Affiliates. A larger amount is required if contributions from industry associations are intended encompass constituent companies. Affiliate contributions are used solely to fund Center research. Tax-deductable contributions are made to the Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute (LRRI), an independent, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization. Affiliates agree to contribute to the work approved by the Center's External Scientific Advisory Committee. Membership does not entitle affiliate organizations to either representation on the Committee or a representative portion of control over Center activities. Organizations wishing to sponsor special studies at LRRI outside the NERC research plan may do so through normal grant and contract mechanisms.

The greatest benefit to Center Affiliates is the long-term advantage gained from a better understanding of the relationship between air quality and health and thus, a scientifically-sound attribution of health effects to pollution constituents and co-factors. Other benefits include the following:

• Public recognition of support
• Attendance at any Center meeting (including annual ESAC/Affiliate meetings and planning workshops)
• Enhanced access to research plans, schedules, status, and findings (prepublication copies of papers in press)
• Access to Center scientists as consultants and speakers
• Training residencies at LRRI for Affiliate personnel (up to 1 yr, salary and subsistence to be paid by sponsor)
• $1500 annual credit for LRRI fee-based information services

Federal and State Sponsors

United States Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development
United States Department of Energy Freedom Car and Vehicle Technology Program
United States Department of Energy National Energy Technology Laboratory
California Air Resources Board