Because no legal entity is created, generally one party cannot bind the other unless the agreement specifies otherwise.
With contracts, USAID purchases goods and services from a contractor to implement an Activity as directed by the Agency. Contracts are announced through Requests for Proposals (RFPs). With grants and cooperative agreements, the Agency provides funds to a recipient for a public good and has limited direct involvement.
A cooperative agreement is another form of financial aid. The granting agency and the grantee work together to carry out the purpose of the award. Contracts are financial transactions. Federal agencies buy property or services for their direct benefit or use from a service provider.
Two or more organizations combine their requirements and solicit bids or offers for goods or services. One or more organizations represent their requirements and include an option for other organizations to “ride” or “bridge” the contract as awarded.
A cooperative agreement is a hybrid between a contract and a grant. While its purpose is typically similar to a grant in that it focuses on increased scientific knowledge, the sponsor takes a more active role as a partner to the research, rather than just a funder.
Projects are conceived by the sponsor and the sponsor exercises direction or control of the delivery. Under a contract, the sponsor closely monitors progress and funds are provided through a negotiated agreement signed by both parties. A cooperative agreement is a hybrid between a contract and a grant.
Cooperatives are business organizations owned and controlled by the patrons of the business, their primary aim being service to patrons and not profit to stockholders.
A contract is an agreement, but an agreement is not always a contract. An agreement can be informal or it may be written; a contract may be verbal or written, but a contract will always be enforceable if it contains certain requirements.
A cooperative agreement is a hybrid between a contract and a grant. While its purpose is typically similar to a grant in that it focuses on increased scientific knowledge, the sponsor takes a more active role as a partner to the research, rather than just a funder.