What are NASA Exchanges?

NASA Exchanges are part of the U.S. government, with certain rights and protections, and they follow NASA’s rules and guidelines (NASA Policy Directive 9050.6K). The daily operations of an Exchange are managed by a NASA civil servant and staff who are paid from funds that are not directly allocated by Congress. This means the Exchanges do not get government funding and have to make money through things like gift shop sales to pay their staff and fund activities. A group of NASA employees, called a Council, helps oversee and support the Exchange programs and finances. This Council includes members from different NASA centers.

Is the Exchange goal to make money?

The goal of NASA Exchange is to make a small profit so the centers can use the money to maintain, support, promote, or improve activities or facilities that boost NASA employees’ well-being and work efficiency. Prices are kept as low as possible while covering the costs of running the Exchanges and meeting other financial needs.

If I have a brand, I would like to sell at the exchange store, how to I make that happen? 

Any suggestions can be directed to the operations manager or to the business manager at your NASA Exchange center. See NASA Exchange.

Are the exchange employees Civil Servant or support service contractors?

NASA Exchange staff work for NASA Exchange, which is part of the U.S. government. Their pay and benefits come from the money earned through sales (not from government funds). Because of this, they are not considered regular government employees or contractors. Instead, they are known as “NASA non- appropriated fund employees.”

What are Non-Appropriated Funds?

Non-appropriated funds are money that the government doesn’t provide. In contrast, government-appropriated funds come from the annual budget approved by Congress. Most of the money for NASA Exchange comes from sales, which is non-appropriated funding. If NASA employees need support for activities or requests that aren’t covered by government funds, they can reach out to their NASA Exchange center for help.

 Are appropriated funds ever used to support the Exchange?

Yes, appropriated funds can be used for specific approved expenses. These expenses might include costs for things like buildings, utilities, and buying or maintaining equipment needed to run or manage  NASA Exchange.

Contact Information

For more information regarding the NASA Exchange program, contact Desiree Sylver-Foust via email at: desiree.e.sylver-foust@nasa.gov