Providing grant information to current and prospective HHS grantees

HHS accomplishes much of its mission through the services provided by state, local, and tribal governments, hospitals, universities, and non-profit organizations, to name a few, using a variety of funding instruments such as grants, cooperative agreements, or contracts. Each instrument is unique and has a specific purpose and application, thus creating different relationships between the parties.

Grants

The principal purpose of a grant is to transfer of money, property, services, or anything of value from a federal agency to the recipient in order to accomplish a public purpose of support. There is no substantial involvement between the federal agency and the recipient during the performance activity. HHS is the awarding agency, providing financial assistance and thereby supporting an organization with minimal involvement. The purpose of a grant is to benefit some identified segment of the public rather than the government. For more information about the different types of grants, see "Types of Grants."

Cooperative Agreements

In a cooperative agreement, HHS provides financial assistance to the recipient and is a partner in the relationship.

Contracts

A contract is used to acquire property or services for the Federal government's direct benefit or use.