Reviewing FFRDC’s
Sponsoring agencies must conduct a thorough review of FFRDCs before extending contracts, ensuring continued need, effectiveness, and compliance with FAR requirements.
Overview
FAR 35.017-4 outlines the requirements for reviewing Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) before extending their contracts or agreements. The sponsoring agency must conduct a comprehensive review to assess the continued need and appropriateness of the FFRDC, coordinating with any co-sponsors and potentially aligning the review with the budget process. If the sponsor decides to discontinue sponsorship, it must notify other agencies using the FFRDC and allow them the opportunity to assume sponsorship. The head of the sponsoring agency is responsible for the final decision to continue or terminate sponsorship, based on the review's findings. The review must evaluate the sponsor’s technical needs, consider alternative sources, assess the FFRDC’s effectiveness and management, and ensure ongoing compliance with the criteria for establishing an FFRDC and with FAR 35.017-1.