Finding Government Contracts for Your Business

Introduction

• Use the government website sam.gov to find government contracts.
• Setting up a user account for full access to features is necessary.

Steps to Search for Contracts

Account Setup

• Go to sam.gov.
• Click the sign-in button at the top right to create a user account and sign in.

Initiating a Search

• Click on search in the top menu bar.
• Select contract opportunities from the domain options.
• Avoid using simple search; follow advanced filtering methods.

Advanced Filtering Options

• Federal Organizations: Filter by government agency (e.g., VA).
• Notice Type:
  • Important types: Sources Sought, Pre-solicitation, Solicitation, Combined Synopsis/Solicitation.
  • Avoid "Award Notice" when seeking open contracts.
  • Solicitation: Government issued request for proposal with specifications and due date.
  • Sources Sought: Opportunity to engage with agency early, influence solicitation process.

Filtering by Keywords and Codes

• Product or Service Information:
  • Use NAICS code to filter by industry.
  • Example: NAICS code 561210 for Facilities Support Services.
  • Enter multiple NAICS codes if applicable.

Filtering by Place of Performance

• Filter contracts by geographical location (e.g., zip code, state, or country).
• Useful for finding contracts within driving distance.

Reviewing Search Results

• Results display contract titles, notice ID, issuing department, and response date.
• Click on a title to see detailed information (e.g., description, response instructions, contact info).
• Attachments: May need to be signed in to download.

Tools for Managing Opportunities

• Follow Button: Track changes and easily find the opportunity later.
• Interested Vendors List: Add business to list, see other interested parties.

Additional Search Filters

• Filter by due date or published date for time-specific searches.
  • Add filters via "more filters" option.

Saving and Receiving Notifications

• Save searches to track opportunities.
• Set up email notifications for saved searches.
• Actions to save, view, and receive notifications on saved searches.
• Download results for offline review.

Next Steps

• Preparation of responses for solicitations and sources sought notices.
• Watch additional videos for proposal writing guidance.

Conclusion

• Saved searches and notifications help manage contract opportunities effectively.
• Follow up with further learning resources to improve contract response strategies.