Nonprofit-Government Contracting in the Nation's Capital: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

Findings from the Center on Nonprofits and Philanthropy's National Survey of Nonprofit-Government Contracting and Grants show that a majority of human service organizations in Washington, D.C. are struggling due in part to challenges posed by working with the government in providing programs and services to District residents. At a forum of nonprofit leaders and government representatives, participants confirmed the study's findings, shed light on issues unique to the city, and proposed initial recommendations to address some contracting challenges.

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Introduction

Findings from the Center on Nonprofits and Philanthropy's National Survey of Nonprofit-Government Contracting and Grants (Urban Institute, 2010) show that a majority of human service organizations in Washington, D.C., are burdened by government payments not covering the full costs of contracted services, the complexity of government application and reporting processes, changes to contracts, and late payments (figure 1). Discussion at the forum confirmed the study findings and articulated other

These contracting issues, exacerbated by the recession, which saw a decrease in funding from all sources and an increase in demand for services, have forced human service organizations to cut staff and benefits, draw on reserves, and for a few, reduce the number of programs they offer (figure 2).

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Publications on Human Service Nonprofit-Government Contracting

Contracts and Grants between Human Service Nonprofits and Governments

Human Service Nonprofits and Government Collaboration: Findings from the 2010 National Survey of Nonprofit Government Contracting and Grants

National Study of Nonprofit-Government Contracting: State Profiles

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