Federal Contracting 101: For Researchers

The government buys many of the products and services it needs from suppliers who meet certain qualifications. It applies standardized procedures by which to purchase goods and services, including research. That is, the government does not purchase items or services in the way an individual business might. Instead, government contracting officials use procedures that conform to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Learning how the government buys, understanding the responsibilities of researchers and recognizing subcontracting and procurement opportunities are the first steps to navigating this complex world of contracting.

Federal Contracting 101: For Researchers outlines:

• Defining the Market 
• Registrations & Certifications 
• How the Government Buys Research
• Contracting Methods 
• Identifying Opportunities for Research
• Marketing Your Lab & Research
• Understanding Solicitations 
• Winning Bids & Proposals

Written by Sandra Long, former Deputy Secretary of Commerce (MD), Federal Contracting 101 for Researchers is designed to help universities and researchers secure federal  R&D contracts.