Managing relationships with external partners is an important part of administering sponsored projects. A key step in this process is understanding the difference between subrecipients and contractor (aka, vendor), and knowing your responsibilities for oversight and compliance, which ensures smooth project management and adherence to sponsor and University requirements
UMB, as the pass-through entity (prime applicant or awardee), is responsible for classifying each arrangement. The classification is based on the nature of the agreement and the criteria in 2 CFR §200.331. This determination is made at the proposal stage and reviewed again before any subaward or procurement is initiated.
Use the Subrecipient or Vendor Checklist to guide your determination.