Author: contact@sam.directory

The business landscape has changed dramatically in the last decade. One thing that has always remained constant, the United States Federal Government is one the largest and most powerful consumers of goods and services in the whole world. Being a government contractor is a highly desired position for any business.  What Is A Government Contractor?  The United States Government is made up of several agencies that are in need of a variety of services. These agencies then offer contacts to private companies across several industries to fulfill these needs. Private contractors are vital in helping the government provide services for the welfare and protection of the citizens of the United States. Private government contractors provide goods and services for the following:   Medical Services  Utilities  Construction  Supplies for various projects  Engineering  Defense  Intellectual Technology  Energy  These are just a few of the categories that are often contracted out to private independent companies through the awarding of government contracts.  What Does This Mean For Small Businesses That Want To Be Government Contractors?  The Federal government is also required to set aside a certain amount of contracts for small businesses. At least 23 percent of government contracts will be awarded to small businesses this year. This means that smaller companies do not have to worry about being outcompeted by large companies with unlimited resources.  How Do I Know Government Contracting Is Right for My Company?  There is very little certainty in business. Having a powerful client that is known for paying its bills on time, like our Federal Government, is a great asset.  Also, many of your competitors might be dismissing the idea of being a government contractor as being too much trouble. This means that there could be surprisingly little competition in some spaces. Their shortsightedness can be your company’s advantage to get ahead and obtain some very lucrative contracts.  Work Environment  Government contractors can work in a wide variety of environments, depending on what service they are providing. A tech company might be consultants on large scale computer-oriented projects. Where an energy company might be on oil rigs supervising the drilling mechanism needed to complete the work.  Contractors who do well and maintain good reputations often are guaranteed to participate in future projects.  Certification and Education  Usually, the agency sets specific educational and certification guidelines when they post a request for proposals or RFP. These requirements can vary depending on the type of work that is needed. However, there are some steps that any business can do to become more attractive for government contracting work.  Make Sure You Establish A Good Business Reputation  We have already mentioned that a certain number of federal contracts are always set aside specifically for small businesses. The Small Business Administration or SBA has reported that the United States government buys almost $100 billion dollars worth of goods and services just from small businesses each year. This large amount does not even include the money spent on contracting at the state or municipal levels.  Try to establish a network of government contacts at various agencies. These contact can often serve as invaluable advocates for your business. They can also give you advice on how to navigate the bidding process. After your receive awards, make sure you work hard to establish a track record of reliability and success.    Make Sure You Register With SAM  What is the SAM Directory?  SAM stands for System Award Management.  In order to do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management. The government will not hire any type of business that has not registered in the SAM directory.  As a smart entrepreneur, you have already used our site to register in the SAM directory. Congratulations on taking this important first step to become a government contractor.  SAM Makes Things Easier  SAM has conveniently combined the many government agencies into one directory. Registering for the SAM directory makes sure that your business is being seen and noticed by a large group of Federal Agencies. This system has efficiently streamlined contracting for both the government and the individual businesses.  When government procurement agencies are casting their search net for companies to send their proposals, your company being a registered entity in the SAM directory makes sure that you will be in their sightline.  What is a NAICS number?  NAICS is a six-digit code that stands for the North American Industry Classification System. Many federal agencies post contracting opportunities using the NAICS codes. The NAICS is used as an internal reference that quickly describes what a business does. You want to make sure you have the correct NAICS number to qualify for as many contracting opportunities as possible. Make sure your NAICS number is up to date  Now that I am in the SAM directory, where do I find Federal government contracting jobs?  The following are some places where you can find federal contracting opportunities:  Search for the Contracting Opportunity Finder. It’s geared to businesses new to federal contracting.  Sign up for notifications from and search the FedBizOpps database of federal contracting opportunities.  Become part of the General Services Administration (GSA) Schedules Program.  Find contracts through individual agencies’ Offices of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization.  Become a subcontractor by working for another company that already has a contract with the federal government.  This is a good way to introduce your company to a contract with the government and to build a track record of success.  Submitting Bids  Now that you met the needed requirements for being a Federal contractor, you are ready to submit bids.  Make sure you are responding to solicitations and not pre solicitations. Pre solicitations are only requests for information and might not lead to an actual job.  Carefully go through all the paperwork and follow directions. You want to make sure your bid is not thrown out for inaccuracy or failing to provide important data.  Your company should utilize online databases for federal contracting opportunities. You should closely follow all directions for submitting a bit as set out by the agency when they make a… Continue reading How To Become A Government Contractor

Small Businesses Are Given Special Consideration When It Comes To Government Contracts  In many markets, small businesses are often outcompeted by larger organizations that often have access to almost unlimited resources. This set aside actually might increase a small business’s chances of winning a lucrative bid.  The federal government is required to set aside at least 23 percent of its total spending specifically for small businesses. Several small businesses have made a fortune just on federal government contract awards. However, many small businesses fail to realize that the government actually has an abundance of websites to help them find these government contracting opportunities.  The Federal Government Offers Great Opportunities For Many Types Of Businesses  The government actually designates a portion of the contracts for women-owned small businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, companies within historically underutilized business zones (HUBZone), and service-disabled, veteran-owned small organizations. This allows for underserved groups to have a real chance to get awarded lucrative government contracts.  The Federal Government Wants To Help Small Businesses Succeed  Unlike other markets, the Federal government wants to make sure that small businesses are able to receive a substantial chunk of the $500 billion contracting pie. This makes the Federal government one of the most powerful consumers of goods and services in the whole entire world and they want to help small businesses succeed in winning these contracts.  Small Businesses Are Given Special Consideration When It Comes To Government Contracts  In many markets, small businesses are often outcompeted by larger organizations that often have access to almost unlimited resources. This set aside actually might increase a small business’s chances of winning a lucrative bid.  The federal government is required to set aside at least 23 percent of its total spending specifically for small businesses. Several small businesses have made a fortune just on federal government contract awards.  Special Programs  Help is available from special small business programs that encourage participation by small businesses and help these businesses navigate the government contracting maze This includes small businesses owned by minority and traditionally disadvantaged groups. These programs, which are administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), assist small businesses on how to obtain both large business and government procurements.  Here is a list of websites that are provided by the government to help small businesses obtain contracting information.  FedBizOpps (Federal Business Opportunities): This is the spot for government procurement opportunities of $25,000 or more. Here, buyers for the government are able to publicize their business opportunities by posting information directly to FedBizOpps and commercial companies looking to do business with the government are able to find opportunities solicited by the entire federal contracting community. (http://www.fbo.gov)  Small Business Administration (SBA): This site has a great deal of information pertaining to small businesses as well as SBA-Net, a gateway to opportunities, and a great place to network. It has a direct connection to the CCR database, which is fast becoming the sole database used by government buyers to locate potential small business contractors.  Procurement Gateway: This is the Defense Logistics Agency site for all opportunities posted from its procurement offices. The defense department is one of the largest consumers of goods and services in the government. Their procurement department is encouraged to work with small businesses and this can be a very lucrative opportunity for a lot of small to midsize companies.  Federal Acquisition Jumpstation: This site has most links to the federal sites that small business owners would be smart to explore  Recovery.gov – This particular government website that provides easy access to important data related to the Recovery Act  and allows for the reporting of potential fraud, abuse, and other types of government waste  E-Verify – This is a handy website in which employers can determine if an employee is eligible to work in the United States based on information reported on the employee’s I-9 form.   USA.gov – This site is all-encompassing and has a lot to offer small businesses. It is a gateway to other government websites that can be very important to small businesses. This is the place to find info on how to do business with the federal government, Data and Statistics, Laws, and Regulations.  FedWorld– This system contains the full text of 7,407 U.S. Supreme Court Decisions from 1937 to 1975. Decisions are available as ASCII text files that can be read on your browser’s screen or saved to your hard drive and accessed by using most word processor programs. It often also has a listing of government jobs  Department of Veteran Affairs–This government agency is particularly helpful to assist veteran-owned small businesses in obtaining federal contracting opportunities.  Library of Congress–This is a guide to finding information on federal government contracting. It is intended for anyone, from the novice contractor to those who are more experiences with working with the government. Included are statistical sources, news sources, and administrative sources.  SAM Directory Can Help  Remember, registering for the SAM directory gives a business automatic entry into the extremely lucrative marketplace of the federal government. It is also a crucial step for applying for rewarding government grants that can help your business reach its full potential.  Let us, the professionals at SAM Directory, make sure that you do all that is needed to not miss out on this important opportunity. We will make certain that your application is processed quickly and efficiently so you can start being a federal contractor as soon as possible. We remove this hassle so you can go about the important mission of running your company.  

Government Contracts Offer Security   The recent pandemic has just shed light on how things can change in the small business marketplace in the blink of an eye. Businesses that were doing quite well had to totally rethink their business models quickly in order to survive.  One of the best ways to expand your business and have a secure lifeline in unexpected rough times is to become a government contractor. The United States government is one of the most powerful consumers of goods and services in the world. This is a 500 hundred billion dollar industry that is required to set aside at least 23 percent of these contracts specifically for small businesses.  This Is Not An Oversaturated Field  Many small businesses often do not want to deal with the hassle of working with the government, and sometimes there can be surprisingly little competition for a government project. That is why utilizing Sam Directory to handle all the confusing registration requirements is a very smart investment. A smart small business can put themselves in a very favorable position to win government contracts if they just follow our guidelines.  Remember Registration With The SAM Directory Is The Vital First Step  SAM stands for System Award Management.  To do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management directory. The government will not hire any type of business (large or small) that has not registered in the SAM directory.  Please read one of the helpful blog articles on our site like Everything You Need to Know About SAM for Small Businesses.  These blogs will help give you all the information you need to understand how we can help make the process very easy for you.  Innovation Is Key  The government needs to be very careful about how they handle money that is provided by taxpayers. They are tasked with making sure that things go smoothly and no unnecessary risks are taken. This is a great opportunity for a small business that prides itself on finding innovative solutions to age-old problems.  The United States government is open to fresh perspectives and ideas that can streamline their systems or save them money. Do not be afraid to think outside the box when you bid for government contracts. Your new ways of doing things could be just the thing to make you stand apart from the other companies vying for the same opportunity. They are particularly keen to listen to ideas that have been proven in the private sector.  Flex Your Expertise  This is not the time to be shy about your business’s accomplishments. Being a small business does not automatically mean that you are the underdog in the competition.  Bigger is certainly not always better.  Small businesses can often prove to be more agile, efficient, and have better response times when compared to their larger counterparts. A larger organization might not have the flexibility to pivot the way you can, which allows small businesses to be able to think on their feet during crises. Smaller companies can also provide more personalized customer services which is something all consumers appreciate.  Narrow In On The Customer’s Needs  At the end of the day, the United States government is a customer just like any other. However, this customer has deep pockets and unlimited needs. A small business can cater to the government by following a strategy in which the customer’s needs always come first. Identify what the government agency’s pain points are and then offer them your innovative solutions to their problems. This type of discipline always wins big points with the government.  Be Precise And Follow Directions  Naturally, the government is a stickler for following rules and regulations. It is shocking how many bids get tossed out because companies fail to follow basic directions. Be aware of deadlines and do not leave anything black when filling out forms. The request for proposals or RFPs has very specific instructions and you must take everything seriously. Just think of it like filing your income taxes and do not take any unnecessary short cuts.  Never Underestimate The Power Of Relationships  As part of understanding your customer, it is very important to build strong relationships within the government agencies. The government is not a giant cold faceless entity. It is made up of people and they will appreciate the opportunity to speak to you face to face. An impressive interview might win you a supporter that will lobby in your favor.  Teamwork Makes The Dream Work  As a small business owner, you have probably already made valuable relationships in the business world. It is a great idea to utilize these relationships to make your own position as a government contractor stronger.  It is even better if you can team up with an experienced prime contractor, who has already won government awards.  This can be a great way to learn about the system as well as gain valuable experience working for the government agency. Subcontracting on a job is a great stepping stone to building your reputation and then becoming a prime contractor on another job. This will also help you with other agencies as they will value that you already have some government contracting experience under your belt.  Do Your Research And Reap The Rewards.  One of the best things about being a government contractor is that the knowledge is already out there for the small businesses that are willing to do the work. Look to see what government contractors who have been successful have done and see if you can follow their leads. It is particularly helpful if they have any special certifications or clearances that might let you get a leg up on the competition.  You can also start targeting agencies that will need your goods and services. The first rule of business is understanding what your customer is looking for and then providing it in the most efficient way possible. Putting this time, in the beginning, will give your great benefits in the future when you are bidding on contracts. … Continue reading How to Win Government Contracts

Networking Is Always Important  Sometimes the hardest step is getting your foot in the door. Networking is extremely important when trying to secure government contracts. An organization that hosts networking and training events throughout the year both nationally and locally is the Small Business Administration (SBA). These events are usually no cost to business owners and can offer a treasure trove of information about how to obtain contracts from various agencies.   This is your opportunity to shine so make sure you are prepared to present an elevator pitch to better define your company. This is a speech that explains what your business has to offer and how you can help another organization meet their goals. It should be short and simple, no longer than a 30-second elevator ride.  Remember Registration With The SAM Directory Is The Vital First Step  SAM stands for System Award Management.  To do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management directory. The government will not hire any type of business (large or small) that has not registered in SAM.  Sam Directory will help guide you through this process so you can spend your time preparing to win these lucrative government contracts.  Please read one of the helpful blog articles on our site like Everything You Need to Know About SAM for Small Businesses.  These blogs will help give you all the information you need to understand how we can help make the process very easy for you.  Make It Short But Sweet  It can be difficult, to sum up, your beloved business in thirty brief seconds. You have so many wonderful points to mention, summing it up can seem impossible when you are in this type of spur of the moment situation.  This is why practicing your elevator pitch is an essential first step in the process. Quickly jot down the most important concepts of your business in no more than four short sentences and then narrow it down even further.  Remember To Be Clear And Concise  Do not spend too much time trying to explain complex terminology that is very industry-specific. The elevator pitch should be so simple that any random person of the street can understand exactly what you are trying to convey. This is important because it makes sure that you keep the attention of the listener, no matter what their level of expertise.  Practice Makes Perfect  Now that you have a short clear and concise message, it is time to practice in front of the mirror. Many people find talking to themselves in front of a mirror to be silly and unpleasant. However, this is the best way to really learn your elevator pitch until it becomes second nature. It will help you with things like smiling at the right moment and making pleasant eye contact.   Practice until you totally eliminate awkwardness and the words like “umm” from the elevator pitch. Make sure that you speak with enthusiasm in your voice. You want to make sure the listener understands the passion you feel for your business and make it sound very natural and organic.  Convey What Makes You Stand Out From The Crowd  You should also include what makes you unique from your competitors. Make sure you do not mention your competition by name or say negative things about them in general. Being classy is always a great way to make a good first impression.  Instead, you should focus on what makes you different and how the agency can benefit from your particular company. It also makes the listener aware that you have knowledge of the industry and makes you less likely to be caught off guard by industry-related questions.  Make Them Curious and Leave Them Wanting More  Let them learn a little bit about you. Give them a tiny bit of information about your story and background. This can make even the most mundane of products very interesting.   Example: “I was interested in becoming a parts manufacturer because my great- grandmother worked as one of the first female riveters in a factory during World War II.”  This allows the listener to place an interesting story with an otherwise fairly mundane business pitch. This small piece of information will make the customer want to find out more about you and your business in less than thirty seconds, making them much more likely to invite you over to the government agency for a proper presentation.  Call To Action  This brings us to the final stage of the elevator pitch. Understand that you need to include a call to action that takes you to the next step in the process. Make sure that you know what that next step needs to be and you leave it open for the listener to initiate the action.  Summary Of The Elevator Pitch  Here is a rundown of what is needed in the beginning:  Grab them with a statement that engages them and prompts questions. Remember to smile and look friendly  Introduce yourself  Tell them what your company does  What Do You Offer:  What problems can your company solve for the agency?  Give an example of past work   Let them know about your company’s knowledge  What Are The Benefits:  What very special service, product, or product does your company offer?.  Give them the advantages of working with your company. In what do you differ from competitive companies?  Have a version for every type o business situation. A convention might be a little different than a networking meetup.  How Do You Do It:  Tell them a short story of how your company is unique.  Call For Action:  Ask for an appointment, referral, or presentation after you have completed your pitch.  Be Confident  Remember that you are an amazing person who is running a fantastic business. Stay calm and follow our instructions to start winning lucrative government contracts that can take your company to the next level. 

Subcontracting Can Be A Great Opportunity To Get Into Working With The Government  We have already discussed how the United States government is one of the most powerful consumers on the planet and government contracting is a lucrative billion-dollar marketplace.  However, if you are a fairly new business, it might be wiser to begin as a government subcontractor.   This means that you are working with a Prime Contractor that is working directly with the government, instead of the government itself. A good working relationship with a prime contractor can help you gain experience and knowledge that is always valuable to young companies. It helps you access how ready your business is to take on the challenge of government contracting.   Subcontracting Has Many Advantages For Less Experienced Businesses  Subcontracting with a prime contractor rather than the government means that you do not have to worry about the strict rules and regulations that are part of working directly with the government. This is because the subcontractor is actually answerable to the prime contractor, not the government. Luckily, prime contractors are always on the lookout for companies that can help them complete these important government projects.  Federal Contracting Also Makes Prime Contractors Want To Seek Out Businesses That Are Traditionally Disadvantaged  This means that prime contractors are on the lookout for talented businesses that are owned by women, minorities, and veterans. This provides opportunities for these groups in federal contracting that might not be available in other markets. Also, it is not unusual for prime contractors to be very loyal to their subcontractors and give them several avenues for repeat business. These are incredibly valuable relationships and firms should develop a strategy for how to approach these types of potential partners.  So, How Does A Small Business Successfully Start Relationships With Key Government Contractors?  The first step is to become familiar with the government marketplace. Do your research and become familiar with the terms that are commonly used in that industry. Then study the different regulations and become certified with the government, if necessary. You could also attend government trade shows to better understand the needs of particular government and state agencies. This will help you identify the needs of prime contractors and any niches that your business could fill.  Locate Key Prime Contractors  Federal prime contractors can be found at this Small Business Administration site at this site:  https://www.sba.gov/document/support–directory-federal-government-prime-contractors-subcontracting-plans. This directory is a great place for small businesses to find prime contractors who are looking to fill subcontracting requirements for government contracts. Companies can also go to http://web.sba.gov/subnet/ to find prime contractors who directly announce what their needs are for their current jobs for the government. This is a great tool for you to identify a prime contractor that will make a good match for your business.  Do Research On The Company That You Have Chosen  The prime contractor’s website is a great source of information. This will help you understand their company better which always makes a great impression.  After you learn about the prime determine the product or service that you can provide to fulfill their needs for the government contract. Be able to articulate what you offer and how you are the most cost-effective option for the prime contractor.  Develop A strategy  Do not be too broad about what your company can do. This will make you seem unfocused. Specifically, outline to the prime contractor how you are the best choice for the job. Make sure you clearly define your niche.  This Is Not The Time To Be Shy About Your Company’s Accomplishments  Inform them about any awards or certifications that you have received. Explain to them how you have a strong reputation and reference any contracts that you have helped successfully complete in the past. This is the time to clearly position yourself as an asset to their project and inform them about your capabilities. These are things that help build your credibility as a subcontractor.  Remember That You Are Forming A Long Term Relationship And This Is Not Just A One Time Gig  You want to develop a strong alliance with the prime contractor’s company. It is on you to suggest teaming arrangements that will benefit both your businesses. Make sure the arrangement helps promote your company to other prime contractors and also to the government agency that is funding the project.  Closing The Deal  Request a visit with the prime contractor. Make sure that you prepare a presentation that will highlight why you are the right fit for the project. This is also time to meet the administrative people that you might be closely working with in the future. Ask them for overviews of past contracts and give them an audit for how your company can help them improve their bottom line.   Make sure you keep the presentation short and simple. Prove to the prime contractors of your reliability by showing them the following:  Financial stability  How you stand out in a competitive marketplace  Following up and being proactive.  These are the methods that will help you land the subcontracting opportunities you need to take your business to the next level.  Remember nothing happens until you register with SAM.  One of the first things that one needs to do is to be registered with  SAM.  SAM stands for System Award Management.  To do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management directory. The government will not hire any type of business (large or small) that has not registered in the SAM directory.  Please read one of the helpful blog articles on our site like Everything You Need to Know About SAM for Small Businesses.  These blogs will help give you all the information you need to understand how we can help make the process very easy for you. Sam Directory will happily guide you through this often confusing process. With our help, you will be able to be on the path to government subcontracting quickly and efficiently. 

The United States Federal Government The United States government buys many of the products and services it needs from suppliers who meet certain qualifications. It applies standardized procedures by which to acquire goods and services. That is, the government does not purchase items or services in the same way in which private companies might secure business. The procedures used by the government can be found in the  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). What is FAR? The FAR is a standardized set of regulations employed by all federal agencies in making purchases. It provides procedures for how to maneuver in the procurement process. It takes you through the need for the product and service to the award of the contract. The Federal Government Offers Great Opportunities For Many Types Of Businesses The government actually designates a portion of the contracts for women-owned small businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, companies within historically underutilized business zones (HUBZone), and service-disabled, veteran-owned small organizations. This allows for underserved groups to have a real chance to get awarded lucrative government contracts. Streamlining and Modernizing Information Technology Did you know that the Internal Revenue Service, the Veteran’s Affairs Department, Defense Department, and the Transportation Department are operating on computer systems that are over 50 years old? Some are still using 1970 IBM mainframe computers that store information on floppy disks! This has caused the government to pass the Modernizing Government Technology Act, also known as the MGT. The MGT has authorized that 100 hundred million dollars be allocated to modernizing the federal government Information Technology systems in 2018. Then another 150 million dollars were added to the MGT in 2019. The Consolidated Appropriations Act also then added billions of dollars to upgrade the government’s I.T. systems and update infrastructure. So small businesses that can help the government reduce redundancies, save money, and streamline government technology have a great chance of obtaining very profitable government contracts in 2020 and beyond. Blockchain Blockchain allows for the distribution of data on multiple platforms at the same time. It grows as a new set of recordings, referred to as blocks, are added to it. All the blocks contain timestamp information linking it to previous blocks, thus creating a chain. This allows for no data block to be altered without the alteration of all the blocks that came before it. The government is interested in blockchain data management because it is decentralized and allows for more security for transactions. This usually also means that operating costs can be lower. The United States government became interested in blockchain technology in 2016 and it should be a very lucrative avenue for many small businesses.  Innovation OTS is a five-year program that will continue in 2020. It aims to provide opportunities for nontraditional government contractors to work with the Department of Homeland Security developing new technologies to address upcoming threats. In 2020,  small business contractors can take advantage of Innovation OTS to form government partnerships and provide innovative technologies. Department of Energy The Department of Energy defines its mission as “…. to ensure America’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions.” The Department of Energy has a network of 36 Facility Management Contracts.  They include the following: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Office of Environmental Management Office of Fossil Energy Office of Nuclear Energy Office of Science National Nuclear Security Administration This provides many opportunities for contractors that have energy management capabilities and supplies. Cyber Security As the world becomes increasingly higher-tech, security breaches are more likely to be in data management than on the battlefields. It is very important for the government to stay several steps ahead of those who wish to exploit undiscovered vulnerabilities in our systems. This is why cybersecurity will be a very lucrative area for government contractors. This is particularly true in 2020, which will be an election year. Cybersecurity will be used to protect voter databases and voting machines. Cybersecurity is also going to be a big part of government protection when it comes to cyberattacks on supply chains. Contractors that can help manage these constant threats to government security will be in high demand. The Department Of Health And Human Services The Department of Health and Human Services states its mission “Is to enhance the health and well-being of all Americans, by providing for effective health and human services and by fostering sound, sustained advances in the sciences underlying medicine, public health, and social services” This is an agency whose need has only increased due to the current pandemic of Covid-19. This agency is a great contracting source for small businesses that provide healthcare services and products. Go to https://www.hhs.gov/grants/contracts/index.html for more information. This agency also does a lot of partnerships, so it is a great way for a small business to get their foot in the door with many other types of government agencies. Infrastructure Construction There are at least 21 billion dollars allocated for infrastructure spending by the federal government. The United States is a vast land of highways, roads, bridges, and dams. All of these structures need to be constantly maintained for safety and to fuel a strong vibrant economy. The country also needs to construct new infrastructure in order to keep up with the needs of a growing population The Government Will Always March Forward The Federal government will soon be back on track and in much need of goods and services provided by small businesses. Many agencies, such as the Department of Defense, are fully funded for the year. and will be moving forward with their contracts immediately.  To do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management directory. The government will not hire any type of business (large or small) that has not registered in the SAM directory. Please read one of the helpful blog articles on our site like Everything You Need to Know About SAM for Small Businesses.  These blogs… Continue reading The Future Of Federal Contracting

The United States Federal Government The United States government buys many of the products and services it needs from suppliers who meet certain qualifications. It applies standardized procedures by which to acquire goods and services. That is, the government does not purchase items or services in the same way in which private companies might secure business. The procedures used by the government can be found in the  Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). What is FAR? The FAR is a standardized set of regulations employed by all federal agencies in making purchases. It provides procedures for how to maneuver in the procurement process. It takes you through the need for the product and service to the award of the contract. Specifications As of 2001, the United States Federal Government began to utilize Federal Business Opportunities (FedBizOpps) to list all procurement opportunities expected to exceed $25,000. FedBizOpps is how the government communicates its buying specifications to potential contractors.  The specifications are quite exact for most of the products and services that government agencies buy on a regular basis. Your contract will contain extremely precise specifications that must be followed meticulously. In fact, the specifications-which describe the government’s requirements were contained in the invitation for bids or requests for proposals on which you based your bid or proposal. If your company is awarded a contract, you are bound to deliver the product or service described in the specifications. A company is bound by the terms of these specifications, as well as the basic specifications. Failure to deliver a product meeting these terms will result in the termination of your contract for default. So, it is extremely important to understand all specifications before bidding on a federal contract. The government prefers contractors that are reliable and pay attention to the smallest details. The United States Government Is A Very Powerful Client With Deep Pockets The Federal government usually spends around 500 billion dollars a year on goods and services. This makes the U.S. government an extremely attractive client. There are few other organizations with this type of spending power and clout. The government also tends to buy goods and services in bulk. If your business has the infrastructure to handle large orders, then the government can help you grow substantially at an accelerated pace. Government agencies also buy goods and services in large quantities. Large orders can be a double-edged sword for small businesses. However, if managed correctly, they can help you grow substantially and rapidly. Small Businesses Are Given Special Consideration When It Comes To Government Contracts In many markets, small businesses are often outcompeted by larger organizations that often have access to almost unlimited resources. This set aside actually might increase a small business’s chances of winning a lucrative bid. The federal government is required to set aside at least 23 percent of its total spending specifically for small businesses. Several small businesses have made a fortune just on federal government contract awards. The Federal Government Offers Great Opportunities For Many Types Of Businesses The government actually designates a portion of the contracts for women-owned small businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, companies within historically underutilized business zones (HUBZone), and service-disabled, veteran-owned small organizations. This allows for underserved groups to have a real chance to get awarded lucrative government contracts. What Information Does A New Business Need to Register For SAM? It is important that a business understands the government classification system which includes the following codes: NAICS PSC FSC What is a NAICS number? NAICS is a six-digit code that stands for the North American Industry Classification System. Many federal agencies post contracting opportunities using the NAICS codes. The NAICS is used as an internal reference that quickly describes what a business does. You want to make sure you have the correct NAICS number to qualify for as many contracting opportunities as possible. What is the PSC number? PSC stands for Product Service Code and is primarily used by the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) and the General Services Administration (GSA).  They are used to describe the types of products, services, and research and development purchased by the federal government. What is an FSC Code? Federal Supply Class (FSC) codes are four-digit codes that group products into logical families for supply management purposes. They are also used to classify government standards documents into categories, for easy management. FSC codes are grouped by Federal Supply Group (FSG) numbers. CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity) This code is five characters and unique to your business. It’s basically your ID code, and government agencies will identify your business using this code. It is a bit like a social security number for your business. If your business includes more than one facility, then you will need multiple CAGE codes. Each location must have its own unique code, and each location must be registered separately with SAM. Registering With The SAM Directory Also Has Other Important Advantages You must register with the SAM directory in order to apply for government grants. A grant gives you government funds ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the economy. Grants support critical and innovative initiatives and can be found in the Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA). A grant is different from a loan in that it is money that your business does not have to pay back. So, registering for the SAM directory actually gives you access to free money! How Do You Get Started Working With The Government? SAM stands for System Award Management. In order to do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management. The government will not hire any type of business that has not registered in the SAM directory. We have an article on our site, Everything You Need to Know About SAM for Small Businesses, that gives you important information about this process. As a smart entrepreneur, you have already used our site to register in the SAM directory. Congratulations on taking this important first… Continue reading Federal Contracting Opportunities For Small Businesses

Working With The Government Is Fantastic For New Businesses The United States Government has a lot of demand but it goes out of its way to make sure all competition is open and fair. It will work with almost any new business for products and services, as long as the prices are competitive. The United States government is known for running with high levels of precision and accuracy. Making sure the government contracts are fulfilled is a great way for a new small business to streamline its process and delivery methods. The Government Can Really Increase The Standing Of A New Business The government is one of the most powerful consumers in the world. Being a government contractor is a wonderful way for any new business to grow its reputation in the digital marketplace as well as other forms of advertising. It is a fantastic way to build a strong reputation in a relatively short amount of time. Government Contracts Offer Security In These Uncertain Times. Covid-19 has halted a lot of different industries. However, the government must continue to move forward for the health and welfare of its people. Government contracting can be a shining light in the pandemic darkness and provide a lifeline to many new struggling businesses who are trying to survive this unprecedented situation. Can A New Small Business Really Compete For Government Contracts? The Federal Government is required to reward a certain amount of its contract to small businesses. In fact, last year the Federal government awarded 25% of its contracts to small businesses. In 2019 the U.S. Small Business Administration announced that the Federal government awarded a total of $105.7 Billion worth of contracts for goods and services to small businesses. This marks the first time that more than $100 billion dollars have been awarded to small businesses and marks a 5 million dollar increase from the previous year. What Is The Sam Directory? SAM stands for System Award Management. In order to do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management. The government will not hire any type of business large or small that has not registered in the SAM directory. What Do I Need To Register For The Sam Directory? You will need the following : A Data Universal Numbering System or DUNS from Dun and Bradstreet Your Tax Identification Number or TIN A Social Security Number if you are a Sole Proprietor. What Is A DUNS Number? The Data Universal Numbering System—or D-U-N-S number—was created and copyrighted in 1962 by Dun & Bradstreet. It is a unique nine-digit identifier that has become the standard numbering system to identify businesses across the globe. You can compare the DUNS number as a social security number for your business. Any contracting opportunity within the System for Award Management (SAM) will require a DUNS number. Are There Any Other Advantages For A New Business To Registering For The SAM Directory Besides Government Contracting Opportunities? A business has to be registered with SAM before they can begin to apply for valuable federal grants. What Is A Federal Grant? A grant may be a way the government funds your ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the economy. Grants support critical recovery initiatives, innovative research, and lots of other programs within the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA). The following are the steps to apply for a grant: Step 1: Obtain a DUNS Number Step 2: Register with SAM Step 3: Register with Grants.gov What Other Information Does A New Business Need to Register For SAM? It is important that a business understands the government classification system which includes the following codes: NAICS PSC FSC What is a NAICS number? NAICS is a six-digit code that stands for the North American Industry Classification System. Many federal agencies post contracting opportunities using the NAICS codes. The NAICS is used as an internal reference that quickly describes what a business does. You want to make sure you have the correct NAICS number to qualify for as many contracting opportunities as possible. What is the PSC number? PSC stands for Product Service Code and is primarily used by the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) and the General Services Administration (GSA).  They are used to describe the types of products, services, and research and development purchased by the federal government. What is an FSC Code? Federal Supply Class (FSC) codes are four-digit codes that are used to group products into logical families for supply management purposes. These codes are also used to classify government standards documents into categories, to help manage them more easily. FSC codes are grouped by Federal Supply Group (FSG) numbers. CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity) This code is five characters and unique to your business. It’s basically your ID code, and government agencies will identify your business using this code. It is a bit like a social security number for your business. If your business includes more than one facility, then you will need multiple CAGE codes. Each location must have its own unique code, and each location must be registered separately with SAM. How Can A New Business Easily Register For SAM Without All the Hassle? All this information can at first seem quite daunting at first. We understand that as a small business owner, you have a million things to accomplish on any given day. However, you also do not want to miss out on the honey hole of opportunities provided by the federal government. It is important that you get registered into the SAM directory as quickly and efficiently as possible. That is why it is a great idea to go to sam.directory. They understand the importance of proper SAM registration and take this confusing process off your hands completely. This website can make sure you are registered in as little as two days. If you still have questions, sam.directory will be more than happy to guide you through this often… Continue reading Why New Businesses Should Register With SAM

The Federal Government Offers Great Opportunities For Many Types Of Businesses Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy. They are often key sources of innovation and research. The mom and pop shop has been part of the landscape and American dream since the beginning of this great nation. The federal government can help you achieve your business dreams. Let us help you take this vital first step on the pathway to success. Special Programs Help is available from special small business programs that encourage participation by small businesses and help these businesses navigate the government contracting maze This includes small businesses owned by minority and traditionally disadvantaged groups. These programs, which are administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), assist small businesses on how to obtain both large business and government procurements. Here is a list of websites that are provided by the government to help small businesses obtain contracting information. FedBizOpps (Federal Business Opportunities): This is the spot for government procurement opportunities of $25,000 or more. Here, buyers for the government are able to publicize their business opportunities by posting information directly to FedBizOpps and commercial companies looking to do business with the government are able to find opportunities solicited by the entire federal contracting community. (http://www.fbo.gov) Small Business Administration (SBA): This site has a great deal of information pertaining to small businesses as well as SBA-Net, a gateway to opportunities, and a great place to network. It has a direct connection to the CCR database, which is fast becoming the sole database used by government buyers to locate potential small business contractors. Procurement Gateway: This is the Defense Logistics Agency site for all opportunities posted from its procurement offices. The defense department is one of the largest consumers of goods and services in the government. Their procurement department is encouraged to work with small businesses and this can be a very lucrative opportunity for a lot of small to midsize companies. Federal Acquisition Jumpstation: This site has most links to the federal sites that small business owners would be smart to explore Recovery.gov – This particular government website provides easy access to important data related to the Recovery Act  and allows for the reporting of potential fraud, abuse, and other types of government waste E-Verify – This is a handy website in which employers can determine if an employee is eligible to work in the United States based on information reported on the employee’s I-9 form.  USA.gov – This site is all-encompassing and has a lot to offer small businesses. It is a gateway to other government websites that can be very important to small businesses. This is the place to find info on how to do business with the federal government, Data and Statistics, Laws, and Regulations. FedWorld– This system contains the full text of 7,407 U.S. Supreme Court Decisions from 1937 to 1975. Decisions are available as ASCII text files that can be read on your browser’s screen or saved to your hard drive and accessed by using most word processor programs. It often also has a listing of government jobs Department of Veteran Affairs–This government agency is particularly helpful to assist veteran-owned small businesses in obtaining federal contracting opportunities. Library of Congress–This is a guide to finding information on federal government contracting. It is intended for anyone, from novice contractors to those who have more experience with working with the government. Included are statistical sources, news sources, and administrative sources. The Federal Government Has Government Personnel That Are Strictly Utilized to Help Small Businesses Be More Competitive In Securing Government Contracts Here are some examples: SBA Procurement Center Representative (PCR): Procurement Center Representatives are often located at a major government buying office, even though they technically work for the Small Business Administration. They will identify items and services that could be produced or provided by small businesses and try to get them “set aside” for small businesses, which means that only small businesses can bid for the contracts.  Competition Advocate: This person is responsible for promoting full and open competition at high management levels in the major buying offices. They are supposed to challenge overly restrictive statements of work and contract clauses that can prove to be burdensome. They also try to expand competition for items by offering challenges to requirements that are not deemed necessary for the performance or essential physical characteristics.  Small Business Specialists (SBS): The law requires that every government buying location must have a Small Business Specialist. These specialists work specifically with small businesses to help them to business with that office. Larger government offices might have full staff while smaller offices might only have one part-time employee assigned to this role. Major government buying offices have full-time staff, while smaller offices have a part-time person assigned to that task.  SBA Commercial Marketing Representative (CMR): Commercial Marketing Representatives keep track of large companies doing work for their departments. These representatives are often the go-to person for fantastic subcontracting opportunities for small businesses.  SAM stands for System Award Management. In order to do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management. The government will not hire any type of business that has not registered in the SAM directory. How Do You Get Started Working With The Government? For example, the following are the steps to apply for a federal grant: Step 1: Obtain a DUNS Number Step 2: Register with SAM Step 3: Register with Grants.gov You might be wondering what SAM means and how do you register with the site. Go to sam. directory to find people who are willing to make this as easy as possible. Be sure to also check out our informative article Everything A Small Business Needs to Know About the SAM Directory, which should easily answer most of your questions. Make Sure You Get A CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity) This code is five characters and unique to your business. It’s basically your ID… Continue reading Tips For Getting Government Contracts For Small Businesses

The United States Government Is A Very Powerful Client With Deep Pockets The Federal government usually spends around 500 billion dollars a year on goods and services. This makes the U.S. government an extremely attractive client. There are few other organizations with this type of spending power and clout. The government also tends to buy goods and services in bulk. If your business has the infrastructure to handle large orders, then the government can help you grow substantially at an accelerated pace. Government agencies also buy goods and services in large quantities. Large orders can be a double-edged sword for small businesses. However, if managed correctly, they can help you grow substantially and rapidly. Small Businesses Are Given Special Consideration When It Comes To Government Contracts In many markets, small businesses are often outcompeted by larger organizations that often have access to almost unlimited resources. This set aside actually might increase a small business’s chances of winning a lucrative bid. The federal government is required to set aside at least 23 percent of its total spending specifically for small businesses. Several small businesses have made a fortune just on federal government contract awards. The Federal Government Offers Great Opportunities For Many Types Of Businesses The government actually designates a portion of the contracts for women-owned small businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, companies within historically underutilized business zones (HUBZone), and service-disabled, veteran-owned small organizations. This allows for underserved groups to have a real chance to get awarded lucrative government contracts. What Is The Sam Directory? SAM stands for System Award Management. In order to do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management. The government will not hire any type of business large or small that has not registered in the SAM directory. What Do I Need To Register For The Sam Directory? You will need the following : A Data Universal Numbering System or DUNS from Dun and Bradstreet Your Tax Identification Number or TIN A Social Security Number if you are a Sole Proprietor. What Is A DUNS Number? The Data Universal Numbering System—or D-U-N-S number—was created and copyrighted in 1962 by Dun & Bradstreet. It is a unique nine-digit identifier that has become the standard numbering system to identify businesses across the globe. You can compare the DUNS number as a social security number for your business. Any contracting opportunity within the System for Award Management (SAM) will require a DUNS number. Are There Any Other Advantages For A New Business To Registering For The SAM Directory Besides Government Contracting Opportunities? A business has to be registered with SAM before they can begin to apply for valuable federal grants. What Is A Federal Grant? A grant may be a way the government funds your ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the economy. Grants support critical recovery initiatives, innovative research, and lots of other programs within the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA). The following are the steps to apply for a grant: Step 1: Obtain a DUNS Number Step 2: Register with SAM Step 3: Register with Grants.gov What Other Information Does A New Business Need to Register For SAM? It is important that a business understands the government classification system which includes the following codes: NAICS PSC FSC What is a NAICS number? NAICS is a six-digit code that stands for the North American Industry Classification System. Many federal agencies post contracting opportunities using the NAICS codes. The NAICS is used as an internal reference that quickly describes what a business does. You want to make sure you have the correct NAICS number to qualify for as many contracting opportunities as possible. What is the PSC number? PSC stands for Product Service Code and is primarily used by the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) and the General Services Administration (GSA).  They are used to describe the types of products, services, and research and development purchased by the federal government. What is an FSC Code? Federal Supply Class (FSC) codes are four-digit codes that are used to group products into logical families for supply management purposes. These codes are also used to classify government standards documents into categories, to help manage them more easily. FSC codes are grouped by Federal Supply Group (FSG) numbers. CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity) This code is five characters and unique to your business. It’s basically your ID code, and government agencies will identify your business using this code. It is a bit like a social security number for your business. If your business includes more than one facility, then you will need multiple CAGE codes. Each location must have its own unique code, and each location must be registered separately with SAM. High-Level Security and Background Checks It is important for government contractors to be able to pass several security clearances. A background check on your company and employees is often a condition of employment. This will include the following: Employment Education Criminal Records Credit History Motor Vehicles and License Records You should make sure that all your personnel and employees are able to pass this intensive screening. If there are any issues, make sure the government is made aware of it ahead of time, so that an explanation can be given. For example, if you are participating in programs that rehabilitate criminals by giving them jobs. Transparency is often the best way to deal with situations that might cause an issue in obtaining lucrative government contracts. SAM Directory Can Help Remember, registering for the SAM directory gives a business automatic entry into the extremely lucrative marketplace of the federal government. It is also a crucial step for applying for rewarding government grants that can help your business reach its full potential.  Let us, the professionals at SAM Directory, make sure that you do all that is needed to not miss out on this important opportunity. We will make certain that your application is processed quickly and efficiently so… Continue reading Basic Requirements For Government Contracts