Sometimes a federal contract will provide funding for a base period of performance and then provide estimates for future options. Options for federal contracts are typically at the discretion of the funding agency (sponsor), which will extend the contract based on need, availability of funds, and contractor (Pitt) performance, among other factors. It is important to note that because exercising an option is at the sponsor’s discretion, the contractor is not required to initiate the process by submitting a Contracting Officer's Authorization (COA) request.
For more information, see the Federal Contract Services FAQs, or contact the Federal Contracts Team at orfedcon@pitt.edu or 412-624-7400 with any questions regarding option periods in your federal contract.