Federally Funded Research and Development Center(FFRDC)
A federally funded R&D organization operated by a contractor to support long-term government missions.
Overview
Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) are independent, nonprofit or university-affiliated entities that conduct research and analysis for sponsoring agencies. They are barred from competing for most government work but can support agencies as trusted, conflict-free advisors.
Why It Matters in GovCon
FFRDCs are significant players in defense, energy, and science contracting. Contractors may partner with FFRDCs, support them as subcontractors, or compete in adjacent markets. Understanding FFRDC roles helps in strategic positioning.
Key Details
- Sponsorship: Each FFRDC has a sponsoring agency (e.g., DoD, DOE, NASA).
- Conflict of Interest: FFRDCs generally cannot compete with industry for contracts.
- Examples: MITRE, Lincoln Lab, RAND, Sandia, Los Alamos.
- Tasking: Work is directed by the sponsor; FFRDCs do not seek commercial business.
Related Terms
- MITRE
- RAND Corporation
- Research and Development
- Contract Vehicle
More Business Terms
A business arrangement where two or more companies combine resources to pursue a specific contract or set of contracts while remaining separate entities.
A trade name under which a business operates that differs from its legal name, which must be registered and may need to be disclosed in SAM.gov.
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