Register your business in the required government systems
Obtain a DUNS/UEI and a CAGE code if required
Determine your NAICS codes and product/service categories
Complete your small business certifications if eligible
Create a strong capability statement
Set up profiles on government procurement portals
Search for opportunities on federal, state, and local contract sites
Monitor solicitations, RFQs, RFPs, and bids regularly
Match your offerings to agency needs and past contract history
Network with contracting officers, procurement staff, and prime contractors
Attend procurement events, vendor fairs, and matchmaking sessions
Respond to solicitations with compliant, competitive proposals
Follow all submission instructions and deadlines exactly
Price your offer competitively and realistically
Build past performance through smaller contracts and subcontracting
Pursue subcontracting opportunities with larger contractors
Maintain required licenses, insurance, and compliance records
Track bid results and improve future proposals
Keep your registrations and certifications current