35.004
Publicizing requirements and expanding research and development sources
Agencies must actively publicize R&D needs and foster early collaboration to attract a diverse pool of qualified contractors, including small businesses.
Overview
FAR 35.004 requires agencies to actively publicize their research and development (R&D) needs to attract a wide range of qualified contractor sources, including small businesses. In addition to following the general publicizing requirements in FAR Part 5, agencies must proactively identify and disseminate information about R&D opportunities, foster early collaboration among technical, contracting, and small business personnel, and provide clear points of contact for potential R&D contractors. The section also references related guidance on R&D pools and teaming arrangements in FAR Subparts 9.7 and 9.6, respectively.
Key Rules
- Broadening Contractor Base
- Agencies must continually seek and develop information on competent R&D sources, including small businesses.
- Early Identification and Publication
- Agencies should identify and publicize R&D needs early, using the Governmentwide point of entry (GPE).
- Collaboration
- Technical, contracting, and small business personnel must cooperate early in the acquisition process.
- Points of Contact
- Agencies must provide R&D points of contact for potential sources.
- Reference to Teaming and Pools
- Agencies should consult FAR Subparts 9.6 and 9.7 for guidance on teaming arrangements and R&D pools.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure R&D requirements are publicized early and broadly, facilitate collaboration, and provide points of contact.
- Contractors: Monitor GPE for R&D opportunities and engage with agency points of contact.
- Agencies: Maintain proactive outreach to potential R&D sources and comply with related FAR guidance on teaming and pools.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures agencies cast a wide net for R&D contractors, promoting competition and innovation.
- Early and broad publicizing helps small businesses and new entrants access opportunities.
- Failure to publicize or collaborate early may limit competition and compliance.