Service Activities are the sale of goods and services produced through CU's research enterprise. These activities are related to the research endeavor but do not include scientific investigation or conclusions. The labs and personnel used are normally engaged in research, development, and creative works, yet have excess capacity to handle services for external entities.
Service activities are related to the research endeavor but do not include scientific investigation or conclusions. Activities must be determined eligible to be offered as services by the OCG Service Contracts team. Common service activities include testing, analysis, equipment use, and professional development. The labs and personnel used are normally engaged in research, development, and creative works, yet have excess capacity to handle services for external entities.
External sales and service offerings are a valuable approach to enhance relationships, increase research funding, and provide job opportunities for students. Often these projects grow into larger research opportunities.
Service Activity Types
Rate-Based Service Activity (RBSA)
Scope
- Repeatable - Scope of Work does not change significantly between customers
- Can be offered to internal and external customers
Budget
- Priced as average rate/menu/catalog pricing
- Rates are certified by Budget and Fiscal Planning (BFP)
- GAIR is built into rates (no F&A)
Administration
- Formal proposal not required
- Invoicing and payment collection is managed by the department via fund 28 or 29
Sponsored Service Project (SSP)
Scope
- Scope of Work is unique to each customer
- External customers only
Budget
- Budget is built to SOW
- Budget is built by the department's Proposal Analyst
- F&A research rates are charged
Administration
- Formal proposal required
- Invoicing and payment collection is managed by CCO via fund 33
Request a Contract
Some opportunities are available to utilize a University-approved quote form instead of a required agreement for certain activity that has completed the campus rate development process. Other opportunities with a higher level of complexity will require additional support from the Office of Contracts and Grants (OCG).
A formal contract is required when a department receives money in exchange for services to external customers, and activities must be determined eligible by the OCG Service Contracts team (OCG Services) before a contract can be put in place. Please refer to OCG’s Service Activity Determinations for more information.
Additional Resources
Service Activities Quick Guide Rate-Based Service Activities