What distinguishes a subrecipient in grants management?

The definition of a subrecipient in grants management is crucial for understanding the relationships and responsibilities in the grant process. A subrecipient is defined as a non-federal entity that receives federal funds from a grant-making organization to carry out part of a federal program. This involves expending those funds to achieve specific programmatic outcomes, often in alignment with the goals of the federal award.

What distinguishes a subrecipient from other roles is their obligation to adhere to the grant's terms and conditions, ensuring that the funds are used in accordance with project goals and federal regulations. Subrecipients often manage a portion of the project and are accountable for reporting on their usage of funds and outcomes. This integration of funding with program implementation makes the role of the subrecipient integral to effective grant management.

In contrast, other options represent different entities in the funding ecosystem. A federal agency overseeing funding would not be classified as a subrecipient but rather as the primary overseeing body. An individual receiving funds for personal use does not fit the definition of a subrecipient, which requires engagement related to program activities. Similarly, a contractor providing technical assistance is generally regarded as an entity that may offer services rather than implementing a program directly, distinguishing them from the subrecipient designation. Together, these distinctions clarify