26.304
Solicitation provision
Include FAR 52.226-2 in solicitations over the micro-purchase threshold for research, studies, supplies, or services typically acquired from higher educational institutions to ensure proper representation of HBCUs and MIs.
Overview
FAR 26.304 requires contracting officers to include the solicitation provision at 52.226-2, "Historically Black College or University and Minority Institution Representation," in solicitations that exceed the micro-purchase threshold when the procurement involves research, studies, supplies, or services typically acquired from higher educational institutions. This provision ensures that offerors identify themselves as Historically Black Colleges or Universities (HBCUs) or Minority Institutions (MIs), supporting federal initiatives to promote participation by these institutions in federal contracting opportunities.
Key Rules
- Provision Inclusion Requirement
- Contracting officers must insert FAR 52.226-2 in applicable solicitations.
- Applicability Threshold
- Applies to solicitations exceeding the micro-purchase threshold.
- Scope of Acquisitions
- Applies to research, studies, supplies, or services normally acquired from higher educational institutions.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure the correct provision is included in relevant solicitations.
- Contractors: Accurately represent their status as an HBCU or MI when responding to solicitations containing this provision.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance and promote participation of HBCUs and MIs in federal contracts.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to increase opportunities for HBCUs and MIs in federal contracting, particularly in areas where they have expertise.
- Contractors must be aware of the need to accurately disclose their institutional status.
- Omitting the provision or misrepresenting status can lead to compliance issues or missed opportunities.