Is it better to not include letters of support from orgs given that they will ultimately be subject to have to apply in a competitive process?

Full Question:

The RFA mentions that contractors and subawards must be awarded competitively, however in our niche field and in many of these underserved communities (especially in less urban environments) there may only be 1 or 2 sub-awardees/contractors to work with at all. Should we apply with support listed from the groups we've pre-identified as being best able to perform the work, or is it better to not include letters of support from orgs given that they will ultimately be subject to have to apply in a competitive process?

Answer:

The Principal Recipient is responsible for creating a fair and open competition. Letters of support from other organizations not serving as PRs may be included; however, they are not required. If you feel these organizations would best support the role of PR with respect to design and oversight of the Project RFA, they may be included as coalition members but would not be eligible as subawardees. As a clarification, if your organization is seeking to execute contracts under this RFA, please note that these will be subject to the regulations at 2 CFR 200.317-327. You may review EPA Solicitation Clauses (05/10/2023)  of the RFA for more provisions, as well.