The Smithsonian Institution (Smithsonian) relies on funding from external sponsors such as governments, foundations, and corporations to support projects that further its mission to increase and diffuse knowledge.
The Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP) provides centralized support, guidance, and training for Smithsonian units receiving sponsored project funding. Together they manage sponsored projects in compliance with Smithsonian policies and procedures and sponsors’ terms and conditions.
OSP oversaw $189 million in sponsored project funding provided during fiscal years 2022 and 2023.
This audit determined the extent to which OSP and recipient units complied with: (1) Smithsonian policies and procedures and (2) sponsors’ terms and conditions concerning administering and overseeing sponsored projects.
OIG reviewed a sample of 25 sponsored projects totaling $33.8 million—approximately 18 percent of sponsored project funding provided through OSP in fiscal years 2022 and 2023. OIG also analyzed OSP’s sponsored project universe for balances and transactions determined to be of higher risk of noncompliance.
During the two fiscal years under audit, OSP managed a 65 percent increase in sponsored project funding while maintaining high-quality service reported by Smithsonian units. However, OIG identified opportunities to improve the administration and oversight of projects throughout their lifecycle.