Government agencies may need independent reviews of their programs or guidance on future research efforts. Congress or the administration may want an assessment of the latest scientific evidence before making policy decisions. Nongovernmental organizations or nonprofits may want to raise awareness about the science behind certain issues. Other sponsors provide fundamental support for ongoing activities.
Although we are best known for our consensus studies, sponsors may choose from a variety of projects or activities to support or to meet their needs. They include:
Sponsors interested in working with us should contact the staff of one of our program units.
Members of Congress and their staff should contact our Office of Congressional and Government Affairs.
Philanthropies and individuals interested in supporting our work should contact our Office of Development.
Before a contract or grant is finalized, staff and board members work with the sponsor to determine the specific set of questions to be addressed. A formal "statement of task" is developed that defines the scope of the study and serves as the basis for determining the expertise and the balance of perspectives needed on the study committee.
When the staff and sponsor have come to a general agreement, staff prepares a prospectus for approval by the Executive Committee of the Governing Board. This step ensures the appropriateness of the topic and the scope of the study before a formal proposal is sent to the sponsor.