The Current Research Information System (CRIS) provides documentation and reporting for ongoing agricultural, food science, human nutrition, and forestry research, education and extension activities for the United States Department of Agriculture, with a focus on the National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant programs. The CRIS data collection consists of a number of reports that make up a necessary information collection for publicly-supported research projects as set forth in requirements established in 7 CFR Parts 3400-3419. This information collection is necessary in order to provide descriptive information regarding individual research activities and integrated activities, to document expenditures and staff support for the activities, and to monitor the progress and impact of such activities.

Project description data, often referred to as the project initiation report; is generally collected at the beginning of a project's life, or in the case of non-formula grants, immediately preceding the time of award. Annual accomplishment reports are requested on all NIFA-administered CRIS project submissions. A final technical report or termination report, reflecting the progress and accomplishments for the entire life of the project is required at the end of the project. A funding and staff support report is requested annually for formula grant projects.