External Travel Support Section in the Travel System

Travel that supports an individual’s University employment responsibilities and is sponsored or reimbursed by an entity other than NC State is considered an External Professional Activity (EPA) unless the sponsor is a U.S. government entity. To ensure proper documentation and compliance with Section 3.6.D.4 of REG 01.25.01 – Conflicts of Interest and Conflicts of Commitment, the Travel System now includes an External Travel Support section. 

When completing a Travel Authorization (TA), travelers should record any external support received to obtain prior approval for expenses such as transportation, lodging, or registration fees. This update helps ensure that all externally supported travel is appropriately disclosed and approved in accordance with University policy.

Key clarifications:

• Use of County-Owned Vehicles: If a traveler uses a county-owned vehicle (not owned by Extension or NC State) and there is no cost to the University and no funds exchanged, this does not need to be recorded in the External Funding section.
• Government Support: For clarity, you do not need to include any support from U.S. government entities at any level, including federal, state, or county.