How to Get Government Contracts as a Small Business
- Get Registered in SAM
Have a CRS (Certified Registration Specialist) help with registering your business in the federal governments portal for contracting payments, System for Award Management (SAM), which is required to bid on federal contracts. Getting your SAM Registration compliant and active is essential for small businesses to get federal contracts.
- Identify Your NAICS Codes
Find the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes that best describe your business services. Government agencies use these codes to categorize and search for businesses within specific industries. Using accurate NAICS codes helps your business appear in relevant searches for contracts.
- Understand Your Eligibility
Check if your business qualifies as a “small business” according to the SBA size standards. Some contracts are reserved for specific business types, like HUBZone, WOSB, VOSB, and 8(a), so research your eligibility for set-aside programs. This can increase your chances of landing contracts.
- Research Contract Opportunities
Browse federal contract marketplaces, like SAM, to find opportunities that align with your business’s services. You can filter searches by set-aside type, location, and more to find contracts suited to your qualifications. Sign up for email alerts to stay updated on new opportunities in your field.
- Prepare Essential Documents
Gather documents like past performance, financial statements, and relevant certifications that might be required during the proposal process. Certain contracts may require specific certifications, like HUBZone, WOSB, or VOSB, so make sure you’re certified in any applicable set-aside categories. Having organized documents saves time when applying.
- Submit a Competitive Proposal
Write a clear, concise proposal that highlights your capabilities, past experience, and unique advantages. Tailor your proposal to meet the specific needs and requirements outlined in the contract opportunity. Make sure your pricing is competitive and within industry standards.
- Follow Up and Network
After submission, follow up to check the status of your proposal if allowed and stay connected with contracting officers. Attend government contracting events or networking opportunities to build relationships with agency representatives. Networking can give you valuable insights into upcoming contract needs and requirements.
- Stay Compliant and Renew SAM and Federal Certifications
Stay compliant with contract terms and make sure to renew any certifications that require update such as set-aside recertification’s or your annual SAM Registration Renewal. Ongoing compliance and certification renewals keep your business eligible for future contracts. This also boosts your credibility and helps establish a good reputation with government agencies.
To check the status of your SAM Registration as well as seeing if you qualify for the Federal Small Business Certification, use the tools by clicking either button below.
If your registration has lapsed or is missing, do not hesitate to renew or register in SAM. You could miss out on important opportunities due to the obsolete status. Reach out to the USBRI Help Desk today and a CRS will get started with you. You can also click below to check out.
