FSRDC Access at Your Institution
How can my institution join the Federal Statistical Research Data Center (FSRDC) Network?
The FSRDC network is a partnership between federal agencies and research institutions. There are three ways that academic or non-profit research institutions can join the FSRDC network:
- Joining a consortium with an institution that is already hosting a core or branch location
- Hosting an FSRDC branch location
- Hosting an FSRDC core location
Join a Consortium
The quickest and least costly way for an institution to obtain FSRDC access for its researchers is to join the network via a consortium. Some FSRDC partner institutions form consortia to share the operational costs of their FSRDC and may waive user fees for their affiliates. Contact the Executive Director of the location you are interested in partnering with for more information. However, please be aware that this option has its drawbacks as your researchers will have to either travel to the core or branch location to access data or access it remotely under the limited terms of the FSRDC Remote Access Program.
Host a Core or Branch Location
If your researchers’ needs cannot be met by joining a consortium with an existing core or branch location, it may be worthwhile to consider building an FSRDC core or branch location at your institution. However, this is a lengthy, costly, and very competitive process. As important, this option is only available during periods when applications for new locations are being accepted.
The document “Guidelines for RDC Development and Operations” describes the process for applying to host a core or branch location and provides additional details such as the physical security requirements your site will have to meet.
New core FSRDCs are approved and partially grant-funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Applications for FSRDC core locations are submitted to the NSF through their grant application process and the availability of these funding opportunities will be announced through the Federal Register.
New FSRDC branches go through a different review and approval process. Branch applications must be submitted by an existing FSRDC executive director on behalf of the branch institution. Branch applications are reviewed and approved by the Census Bureau and approval may be contingent upon the outcome of the NSF grant process.
Are new applications being accepted for FSRDC core or branch locations?
The FSRDC Network is not currently accepting applications for new core or branch locations and does not have an anticipated timetable for when applications will again be accepted.
Who can I contact for more information or how can I stay in touch regarding any future opportunities to establish a core or branch location at my institution?
Please contact the FSRDC Program Management Office staff ([email protected]) at the U.S. Census Bureau's Center for Enterprise Dissemination if you have questions or if you are interested in joining the FSRDC network. The FSRDC Program Management Office maintains a list of institutions who express interest in hosting an FSRDC that can be contacted as future opportunities become available. You may also subscribe to receive important updates about the FSRDC program, including news about future core or branch location opportunities.