Federal Acquisition Regulation
Criteria for acceptance and negotiation of an unsolicited proposal
FAR 15.607
(a) A favorable comprehensive evaluation of an unsolicited proposal does not, in itself, justify awarding a contract without providing for full and open competition. The agency point of contact shall return an unsolicited proposal to the offeror, citing reasons, when its substance- (1) Is available to the Government without restriction from another source; (2) Closely resembles a pending competitive acquisition requirement; (3) Does not relate to the activity’s mission; or (4) Does not demonstrate an innovative and unique method, approach, or concept, or is otherwise not deemed a meritorious proposal. (b) The contracting officer may commence negotiations on a sole source basis only when- (1) An unsolicited proposal has received a favorable comprehensive evaluation; (2) A justification and approval has been obtained (see 6.302-1 (a)(2)(i) for research proposals or other appropriate provisions of subpart Other Than Full and Open Competition (FAR 6.3) , and 6.303-2 (c)); (3) The agency technical office sponsoring the contract furnishes the necessary funds; and (4) The contracting officer has complied with the synopsis requirements of subpart Synopses of Proposed Contract Actions (FAR 5.2) .
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