Government Contracting Opportunities
The federal government is the world's largest buyer, spending over $650 billion annually. Learn how to register, compete, and win government contracts for your business.
What is Government Contracting?
Government contracting is the process by which federal agencies purchase goods and services from private sector businesses. Unlike grants (which don't require repayment), contracts are business transactions where you deliver products or services in exchange for payment.
Key Differences: Contracts vs. Grants
Contracts
- ✓ Exchange goods/services for payment
- ✓ Principal purpose: agency needs
- ✓ Competitive bidding process
- ✓ Detailed performance requirements
Grants
- ✓ Financial assistance, no repayment
- ✓ Principal purpose: public benefit
- ✓ Merit-based selection
- ✓ Reporting and compliance requirements
How to Get Started
Obtain a UEI
Get a Unique Entity Identifier from SAM.gov. This replaced the DUNS number in 2022.
Register at SAM.govRegister in SAM.gov
Complete your System for Award Management registration. Required for all federal contracts.
Takes 7-10 business daysGet Certifications
Apply for small business certifications (8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB) if eligible.
Optional but recommendedResearch Opportunities
Search SAM.gov, agency websites, and procurement forecast systems for upcoming contracts.
Use Contract Opportunities on SAM.govBuild Capabilities Statement
Create a one-page capability statement showing your NAICS codes, past performance, and differentiators.
Essential marketing toolNetwork & Bid
Attend industry days, meet contracting officers, and submit competitive proposals.
Start with small contractsTypes of Government Contracts
Fixed-Price Contracts
Contractor agrees to a set price for the entire project. Provides cost certainty for government.
Cost-Reimbursement
Government reimburses contractor for allowable costs plus a fee. Used for R&D and uncertain scope.
Time & Materials
Pay for labor hours and materials. Common for maintenance and support services.
Indefinite Delivery
IDIQ contracts provide for indefinite quantity of supplies/services during a fixed period.
Small Business Set-Aside Programs
The federal government has a 23% small business contracting goal. Special set-aside programs reserve contracts for qualifying small businesses, reducing competition and increasing your chances of winning.
8(a) Business Development
For small disadvantaged businesses. Provides sole-source and competitive set-aside opportunities.
HUBZone Program
For businesses in historically underutilized business zones. 3% federal contracting goal.
Women-Owned Small Business
Set-asides for WOSB and EDWOSB in industries where women are underrepresented.
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned
SDVOSB program with 3% federal contracting goal for service-disabled veteran-owned firms.
Essential Resources
SAM.gov
Official U.S. government system for registration, contract opportunities, and wage determinations.
Visit siteSBA Contracting
Small Business Administration resources, certifications, and contracting assistance.
Visit siteProcurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs)
Free local counseling to help small businesses compete for government contracts.
Visit siteFAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation)
The rulebook for federal procurement. Essential reading for serious contractors.
Visit siteGSA Schedules
Pre-negotiated contracts for common products/services. Streamlines procurement process.
Visit siteBeta.SAM.gov Contract Data
Search awarded contracts, analyze competitors, and identify opportunities.
Visit siteReady to Start Government Contracting?
GrantNavigation helps you find contract opportunities that match your business capabilities.