That is not wrong.

It is also not enough.

By the time an opportunity shows up publicly, a lot has already happened. The requirement has been shaped. The acquisition strategy has been discussed. Market research has been conducted. Incumbent performance has been reviewed. Internal stakeholders have likely formed opinions about risk, price, schedule, capability, and vendor familiarity.

In other words, the race often starts long before the starting gun.

That does not mean the system is rigged. It means the system rewards contractors who understand how federal buying actually works.

The contractors who consistently win are not just better at reacting. They are better at being known, being understood, and being positioned before the opportunity becomes a public solicitation.

That is the part many small businesses miss.

“Fair and Open” Has Never Meant “Everyone Starts Equal”

Federal procurement is built around competition, transparency, and stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Those principles matter. Contracting officers cannot simply hand work to a favorite vendor because they like them.

But “fair and open competition” does not mean every contractor has the same awareness, same credibility, or same influence before a requirement is posted.

The government is allowed, and often required, to conduct market research. Program managers talk to industry. Contracting teams look at acquisition history. Agencies review incumbent performance. Buyers examine whether there are enough capable small businesses. They consider whether the requirement should be competed, set aside, placed under an existing vehicle, issued as a task order, or in certain cases, awarded on a sole-source basis.

That is not backroom dealing. That is acquisition planning.

The problem for reactive contractors is simple: if you first learn about the requirement when the solicitation drops, you are entering a conversation that may have started months earlier.

The contractors already “in the room” may have helped the agency understand the problem better. They may have educated the buyer on technical risks. They may have shown past performance in a specific environment. They may have helped define what a successful solution should include.

They are not cheating.

They are positioning.

How Agencies Legitimately Narrow the Field

Government buyers do not wake up one morning and write solicitations out of thin air.

Requirements are built from pain points, mission needs, operational constraints, budget realities, and risk tolerance. Before anything becomes public, agencies often ask questions like:

Who has done this before?

Which vendors understand our environment?

Is this a commercial service, a specialized service, or something custom?

Can small businesses perform it?

Is there an incumbent?

Did the incumbent perform well?

Would switching vendors create delay, duplication, or unacceptable risk?

Is there a contract vehicle already available?

Can this be set aside?

Is there a socioeconomic program that applies?

That process naturally narrows the field.

A contractor with relevant past performance, direct buyer familiarity, documented capabilities, and a clear understanding of the agency’s mission has an advantage. Not because the agency is ignoring the rules, but because the contractor has reduced uncertainty.

And uncertainty is one of the biggest enemies inside federal procurement.

If a buyer is facing a mission-critical requirement, they are not just thinking, “Who can technically do this?” They are thinking, “Who can do this without creating a mess?”

That distinction matters.

Sole Source Is Not a Dirty Phrase

Some contractors hear “sole source” and assume something questionable is happening.

That is usually a misunderstanding.

Sole-source awards are legitimate procurement tools when used properly. The FAR recognizes circumstances where full and open competition is not required because only one responsible source can satisfy the agency’s needs, or because statutory small business programs authorize sole-source awards under specific conditions.

The key phrase is “properly justified.”

A sole-source award is not supposed to be based on convenience. It has to be supported by facts. The government must be able to explain why the requirement can only be met by one source, or why a specific statutory authority applies.

Under FAR 6.302-1, for example, agencies may use other than full and open competition when only one responsible source, and no other supplies or services, will satisfy agency requirements. That can include unique capabilities, limited rights in data, follow-on work involving highly specialized services, or situations where switching sources would create substantial duplication of cost or unacceptable delay.

Small business programs also have their own sole-source pathways. Under the 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, and WOSB programs, agencies may be able to make sole-source awards when the regulatory conditions are met, including dollar thresholds, responsibility determinations, fair and reasonable pricing, and lack of a reasonable expectation of offers from multiple qualified firms where applicable.

Again, this is not a loophole.

It is part of the system.

But here is the strategic point: agencies cannot justify what they do not understand.

If your company has a legitimate differentiator, you have to make it visible before the acquisition strategy is locked in.

Differentiation Is the Real Game

Most contractors say they are different.

Few can document it in a way that helps a government buyer build a requirement around it.

That is where savvy contractors separate themselves.

A meaningful differentiator is not “great customer service” or “high-quality work.” Everyone says that. A meaningful differentiator is something specific, relevant, and defensible.

It might be a specialized team with rare credentials.

It might be direct experience with a specific agency system.

It might be a bundled service model that reduces handoffs and lowers operational risk.

It might be proprietary methodology.

It might be unique access to technical personnel, equipment, licensing, geographic coverage, or response capability.

It might be past performance in a highly similar environment where transition risk matters.

The goal is not to manipulate the buyer. The goal is to help the buyer understand the actual requirement.

For example, a janitorial contractor might not win by saying, “We clean buildings.” But if that contractor specializes in secure federal facilities, has cleared personnel, experience with biohazard protocols, after-hours surge capacity, and documented work in occupied government spaces, that is a different conversation.

A construction firm might not win by saying, “We perform renovations.” But if it can self-perform critical trades, meet aggressive phasing schedules in active facilities, manage infection control barriers in VA environments, and document prior performance under similar constraints, that can shape how the government thinks about risk.

A cybersecurity contractor might not win by listing every framework on its capability statement. But if it has a narrow specialty helping a certain type of agency meet a specific compliance burden under compressed timelines, that expertise can become part of the requirement.

The smart contractor teaches the buyer what matters.

Not with a sales pitch.

With evidence.

A Real-World Example of Documented Continuity

One useful example comes from the Naval Research Laboratory’s Modeling, Analysis, Research, and Simulation multiple-award IDIQ. The original vehicle was awarded as a total small business set-aside to five small businesses supporting highly specialized electronic warfare modeling, simulation, systems engineering, federation infrastructure, and technical support work.

When the government later justified increasing the scope of the IDIQ, the documentation cited FAR 6.302-1 and explained that continued provision of highly specialized services was necessary to avoid unacceptable delays in fulfilling NRL requirements. The justification also noted that task orders were competed among the small business awardees, and that the vehicle included on-ramp/off-ramp procedures to sustain the competitive environment.

That is not the same as a single contractor being handed work indefinitely. It is more useful than that as a lesson.

It shows how documented specialization, acquisition history, mission continuity, and performance structure can shape future procurement decisions. The government did not simply say, “We like these vendors.” It documented why the work, timing, and mission requirements supported the acquisition approach.

That is what contractors need to understand.

The paper trail matters.

Your differentiators must be specific enough to survive scrutiny.

What Happened Last Time Usually Tells You What Happens Next Time

Federal buyers are creatures of pattern because agencies are creatures of mission.

If an agency bought a service one way last time, there is a reason. Maybe it used a GSA Schedule. Maybe it competed under a small business set-aside. Maybe it issued a task order under an agency-specific IDIQ. Maybe it used an 8(a) sole source. Maybe it released a sources sought notice, received limited responses, and then shaped the acquisition accordingly.

Contract history gives you clues.

Who won?

What vehicle was used?

Was it competed?

Was it a set-aside?

Was it sole source?

Was there an incumbent?

How long was the period of performance?

Were options exercised?

Did the scope expand?

Were modifications issued?

Did the same office buy similar services more than once?

Did the buyer favor certain NAICS codes?

Did the agency consolidate requirements?

Did the procurement move from open market to a contract vehicle?

These data points are not trivia. They are strategy.

If you can see the pattern early enough, you can start positioning before the next requirement appears. You can introduce your company to the right buyer. You can tailor your capability statement to the actual purchasing office. You can identify the incumbent’s strengths and weaknesses. You can prepare teaming options. You can respond to sources sought notices with substance instead of generic boilerplate.

Most contractors wait for the bid.

Better contractors study the buying behavior.

Relationship-Building Is Not Optional

This is where some contractors get uncomfortable.

They think relationship-building sounds too salesy, too political, or too close to the line.

It is not.

Government buyers need industry input. They need to understand what the market can provide. They need contractors to explain capabilities, constraints, innovations, and risks. They need to know who is out there before they make acquisition decisions.

The key is to approach the relationship professionally.

Do not call a contracting officer and ask, “Do you have anything for me?”

That is not strategy.

Instead, bring something useful.

Share a brief capability statement tailored to their mission. Reference similar work your company has performed. Ask intelligent questions about recurring needs. Respond to RFIs and sources sought notices with thoughtful, specific information. Request capability briefings where appropriate. Follow up with relevant updates, not spam.

Your job is to become a credible known source before the requirement is urgent.

Because when the requirement becomes urgent, buyers tend to lean toward lower-risk paths.

Known, relevant, documented, and responsive beats unknown almost every time.

The Roadmap: How to Start Capturing Earlier

If you want to move from reactive bidding to proactive positioning, start with five practical steps.

First, analyze your strongest NAICS codes and service lines. Do not chase everything. Pick the areas where you can prove meaningful differentiation.

Second, study contract history. Look for agencies that repeatedly buy what you sell. Pay attention to incumbent contractors, acquisition methods, contract vehicles, option years, modifications, and recompete timing.

Third, identify the actual buying offices. “The Department of Homeland Security” is too broad. Find the component, office, contracting shop, program buyer, and end-user environment.

Fourth, build a differentiation narrative that is specific enough to matter. Your capability statement should not read like every other contractor’s. It should make it easy for a buyer to understand where you reduce risk.

Fifth, get in front of buyers before the solicitation. That includes direct outreach, capability briefings, RFI responses, sources sought responses, subcontracting conversations, and strategic teaming.

This is not instant gratification work.

It is pipeline work.

But it is exactly how serious contractors become part of the acquisition conversation early enough to matter.

Data Speeds Up the Process

The hard part is not understanding the strategy.

The hard part is getting the intelligence quickly enough to act.

To do this well, contractors need visibility into who their real competitors are and where they have performed. They need historical purchasing data that shows how opportunities evolved over time. They need direct access to government buyers in their category. And they need guidance from someone who understands the difference between activity and actual positioning.

That is where FedBiz365 can help.

FedBiz365 gives contractors the market intelligence needed to identify the right agencies, track relevant buying patterns, understand competitor activity, locate buyer contacts, and prioritize opportunities before they become public bid-chasing exercises. It also includes monthly pipeline reviews with a former contracting officer, giving contractors a practical second set of eyes on where to focus and how to approach the market.

Because the goal is not more noise.

The goal is better positioning.

Stop Waiting for the Bid to Tell You What to Do

Public bid sites matter. SAM.gov matters. Solicitations matter.

But they are not the whole game.

If your strategy begins when the opportunity posts, you are already late to the conversation. The contractors who win consistently are often the ones who understood the buyer, the requirement, the history, and the acquisition path before the market saw the solicitation.

That is not unfair.

That is federal contracting.

The opportunity is not just to bid better. It is to position earlier, document your differentiation, build legitimate relationships, and make your company the logical choice when the need becomes real.

If you want help identifying where those opportunities are forming, who is buying, who is winning, and how to position before the bid hits the street, contact FedBiz Access or book a FedBiz365 demo.

The contractors who wait will keep refreshing bid boards.

The contractors who understand the system will already be in the conversation.

Book a Free Consultation

Book An Appointment

Excellent

FedBiz Access4.9

Based on 843 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Bryan Johnson

17 hours ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 week ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

1 week ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

1 week ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 weeks ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 weeks ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 weeks ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

Here’s a professional review you could leave for Mya:

Mya was outstanding to work with throughout the entire capability statement process. She was professional, responsive, knowledgeable, and made the experience extremely smooth from start to finish. Her attention to detail and willingness to collaborate ensured that the final product accurately reflected our organization and mission.

I truly appreciate the time and effort Mya put into helping us complete our capability statement. Her customer service and communication were exceptional, and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for professional business support services. Thank you again, Mya, for all your hard work and dedication.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

george bianchi

4 weeks ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

1 month ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

1 month ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

2 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

2 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

2 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

2 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

3 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

3 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

3 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

3 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

3 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

3 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

4 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

4 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

4 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

6 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

6 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

6 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

6 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

6 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

6 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

6 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

George Boza

6 months ago

Mrs. Elbanay continues to be consistently efficient and proficient concerning all all SAM matters. We have worked with her for several years and always go back to her with any SAM or government agency matters. She is pleasant person who listens and resolves any situation and/or subject brought to her attention. Summarizing, she is second to none and we look great forward to working her again.

Once again we have the opportunity to work with Cassie Elbany and as expected she surpassed our expectation with her efficient and professional approach and completion of our new registration. It becuase of Cassie above average support that we work with FEDBIZACCESS and will continue to do so.

Response from the owner:We appreciate the opportunity to continue being of service, as needed, from registration to award. Thank you for your repeat business and your positive feedback for our Fed Biz Access government contracting, dedicated team member.

Julia Perez

7 months ago

SAM Register (Fedbizz Access) has been a great help every step of the way, Thank you Cassie E. for updating me and checking up on the process every step of the way. You have been a great help.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist. Thank you for this five star review for our FedBiz Access dedicated consultant and thank you for your business.

cathy deLeon

7 months ago

Ashley was very helpful as always! Easy to register with FedBiz. Ashley took care of our address cheange fast and efficiently. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you; We appreciate your repeat business and opportunity for FedBiz Access professionals to assist with your government contracting needs.

Meghan Ruth

7 months ago

Cassie has been amazing!!

She is so helpful and such a breeze to work with. I always look forward to talking with her.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service every step of the way; thank you for your business and your five star feedback!

Jessica Sumner

7 months ago

Cassie assisted in making our SAM renewal fast and EASY!!

Response from the owner:Always here to answer any of your government contracting questions and keep the process "fast and easy!". Thank you for your feedback!

Joe Rementer

7 months ago

Cassie was patient and professional in updating my FedBiz account information.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist. We appreciate your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Warren Gatson

7 months ago

Fedbiz has been the needle in the Haystack!
Frank Krebs became Executive Service Contractor's mentor with the information and resources , his professional and friendly approach ESC were awarded a contract with the City of Chapel Hill! Its was a Darn Good Investment!!!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent contract award and thank you for your five star google review and feedback for FedBiz Access. Its our pleasure to see the intended results come to fruition with the expert advice provided and your diligent efforts in staying the course to achieve your goal. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your success!

The post How Smart Government Contractors Capture Opportunities Before They Hit Public Bid Sites appeared first on FedBiz Access.

That advice is not wrong.

It is just incomplete.

The Department of Defense is continuing to push acquisition reform in a direction that favors speed, commercial capability, flexible buying methods, and faster access to innovation. That means the old “wait for a perfectly packaged FAR-based solicitation and then respond” approach is not enough anymore.

DoD buyers still use traditional contracts. They still follow procurement rules. They still care about compliance, documentation, pricing, cybersecurity, past performance, and vendor responsibility.

But the buying environment is changing.

More emphasis is being placed on commercial solutions, Other Transaction Authorities, Commercial Solutions Openings, software acquisition pathways, and procurement strategies designed to get useful capability into the hands of the mission faster. Defense.gov described recent software acquisition reform as a move toward flexible tools like Commercial Solutions Openings and Other Transactions to cut red tape and tap commercial innovation. The FAR remains the primary regulation for federal executive agency acquisitions, but the broader reform effort is clearly focused on faster acquisitions, greater competition, and better results.

For agile small businesses and nontraditional contractors, that matters.

It means the door is not just cracked open. In some areas, DoD is actively looking for companies that can solve problems quickly, bring commercial best practices to defense missions, and work with enough flexibility to keep pace with changing requirements.

The question is whether your business is positioned to be found, trusted, and brought into the right conversations.

What DoD Is Really Trying to Fix

Let’s be honest. Traditional defense acquisition can be slow.

Painfully slow.

That does not mean the rules are pointless. The FAR exists for a reason. It creates consistency, accountability, competition, and guardrails for spending public money. The problem is that not every urgent defense need fits neatly into a long, rigid procurement timeline.

Technology changes too quickly. Threats change too quickly. Software, cyber, autonomy, logistics, sensors, communications, data tools, and other mission-critical capabilities cannot always wait years to move from idea to award to deployment.

That is why DoD has been leaning harder into acquisition pathways and authorities that allow the government to evaluate and acquire commercial or innovative solutions faster.

Commercial Solutions Openings, for example, are designed to help agencies seek innovative commercial items, technologies, or services in a more streamlined way. Recent SAM.gov notices show CSOs being used in areas where awards may result in an OTA or FAR-based contract, depending on the requirement and acquisition strategy.

Other Transaction Authorities are another major piece of the puzzle. DoD’s Other Transactions Guide explains that OTs are not traditional procurement contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements, and they are often used for research, prototypes, and production follow-on opportunities when statutory conditions are met.

Plainly put, DoD wants more ways to get to the right solution without forcing every need through the same long hallway.

Why This Can Favor Small Businesses

Large defense primes are not going anywhere. They have infrastructure, contract vehicles, compliance teams, relationships, and decades of past performance.

But speed is not always their advantage.

Small businesses are often closer to the actual innovation. They can make decisions faster. They can adjust faster. They can specialize in narrow technical or operational problems that larger companies may not prioritize unless the opportunity is already mature.

That is exactly where acquisition reform can create opportunity.

When DoD buyers are encouraged to consider commercial solutions, they are not always looking for the biggest company in the room. They may be looking for the company that already solved a similar problem in the private sector. Or the company that can prototype quickly. Or the firm with a niche capability that can plug into a larger mission need.

This is especially relevant for companies in areas like:

• Cybersecurity
• Software development
• AI and data analytics
• Advanced manufacturing
• Logistics technology
• Training and simulation
• Communications systems
• Unmanned systems
• Facilities technology
• Professional and technical services
• Supply chain resilience

The opportunity is not limited to “tech startups,” either. A small business that provides a commercial service faster, cleaner, or more efficiently than the traditional market may be better positioned than it realizes.

The trick is knowing where your capability fits.

OTAs Are Not a Shortcut Around Being Prepared

There is a common misunderstanding about OTAs.

Some contractors hear “not FAR-based” and assume it means “easy.”

Not quite.

OTAs can be more flexible than traditional procurement contracts, but they are not casual arrangements. The government still needs to know who it is working with. It still needs confidence in your technical capability, pricing logic, delivery approach, cybersecurity posture, and ability to perform.

In some ways, flexible acquisition pathways place even more pressure on your messaging.

Why?

Because buyers may be evaluating your solution earlier in the process, with less hand-holding, less boilerplate, and less patience for vague claims.

You need to be able to explain:

What problem you solve
Who you solve it for
Why your solution is different
Where it has worked before
How quickly it can be implemented
What risks the buyer should consider
How your company supports the mission

That is not just proposal language. That is positioning.

And in a faster procurement environment, positioning has to happen before the solicitation drops.

Commercial Does Not Mean “Unregulated”

Another mistake is assuming that because DoD wants commercial solutions, the government is suddenly buying like a private company.

It is not.

Commercial buying still has rules. FAR Part 12 addresses the acquisition of commercial products and commercial services, and the FAR continues to define the core procurement framework federal agencies use.

DoD may want more commercial speed, but it still operates in a government environment. That means contractors must be ready for requirements tied to cybersecurity, supply chain, domestic sourcing, labor rules, reps and certs, pricing, invoicing, and performance documentation.

So yes, the government may be more open to your commercial solution.

But you still need to translate that solution into government language.

That is where many businesses struggle. They know their product or service is strong, but they do not present it in a way that makes sense to a DoD buyer, prime contractor, program office, or acquisition team.

Commercial success is helpful. It can be powerful. But it has to be connected to mission relevance.

The Fastest Path In May Be Through Teaming

For small businesses trying to get their foot in the door with DoD, subcontracting and teaming opportunities should be taken seriously.

In many cases, they are the fastest way to build past performance, understand the buying environment, and earn trust.

Prime contracting gets most of the attention, but subcontracting can be the practical bridge. The SBA explains that prime contractors work directly with the government and manage subcontractors, while subcontracting allows smaller firms to perform part of the work under a larger contract structure. The SBA also maintains resources to help small businesses identify prime contractors with subcontracting plans, specifically for firms seeking subcontracting possibilities.

That matters because DoD opportunities often move through relationships, vehicles, consortia, primes, integrators, and established vendor networks.

A small business may not be ready to win a major DoD prime contract on day one. But it may be perfectly positioned to support a prime that needs a specialized capability, a faster technical solution, a certified small business partner, or a niche commercial provider that fills a gap.

This is where many small contractors need to shift their thinking.

Do not only ask, “What contracts can I bid on?”

Also ask:

Who is already winning work in my lane?
Which primes need small business partners?
Which agencies or commands buy what I sell?
Which upcoming requirements align with my capabilities?
Where can I build relevant past performance?
Which relationships should I start building before the opportunity is public?

That is how small businesses move from chasing bids to building a pipeline.

Why Market Intelligence Matters More Now

Faster acquisition does not mean contractors can be less strategic.

It means they have to become more strategic earlier.

If DoD is using flexible pathways, commercial solution scouting, OTAs, CSOs, and teaming structures, you cannot rely only on public bid boards at the final stage. By then, the buyer may already understand the market. Primes may already be shaping teams. Program offices may already know which vendors can solve the problem.

Small businesses need better visibility into the market before the formal opportunity appears.

That includes knowing:

Which agencies are buying similar solutions
Which companies are winning related contracts
Which primes have relevant vehicles
Which opportunities are recompetes
Which buyers are tied to your NAICS codes and capabilities
Which contacts may be worth engaging
Which teaming partners could help you enter the market

This is where FedBiz365 becomes especially useful.

FedBiz365 is an AI-powered market intelligence solution designed for small business contractors. It can help locate the right partners, identify relevant buyers, analyze opportunities, and provide contact information so businesses can start building the right relationships instead of waiting passively for solicitations to appear.

Just as important, FedBiz365 includes monthly coaching and pipeline review with a former contracting officer. That matters because data by itself is not enough. Contractors need help interpreting what they are seeing, prioritizing the right opportunities, and understanding how a buyer may view their positioning.

In a faster DoD acquisition environment, that kind of guidance can be the difference between activity and actual traction.

What Small Businesses Should Do Now

This trend is not something to watch from the sidelines.

Small businesses should start adjusting now.

First, tighten your capability messaging. Your capability statement, website, government profiles, and outreach should clearly explain what you do, who you serve, and why your solution matters to the mission. Do not bury the buyer in fluff. Make it easy to understand your value quickly.

Second, research where your commercial solution fits inside DoD. Look beyond open solicitations. Study awarded contracts, agency buying patterns, expiring contracts, primes, subcontracting plans, and related program activity.

Third, look for teaming paths. If you lack DoD past performance, find companies that already have it and may need what you provide. A strong teaming relationship can help you build credibility faster than trying to force your way into the market alone.

Fourth, prepare for faster conversations. If a buyer, prime, or program contact asks for a summary of your solution, you should not need two weeks to figure out what to say. Have your narrative ready. Have proof points ready. Have differentiators ready.

Fifth, stay compliant. Faster does not mean careless. Make sure your SAM registration, SBS profile, certifications, cybersecurity posture, and core documentation are accurate and aligned.

Finally, stop treating market research as a one-time task. In this environment, market research is business development. It should guide who you contact, what you pursue, where you team, and how you position your company.

The Bottom Line

DoD acquisition reform is not eliminating traditional contracting.

But it is changing the way smart contractors should think about the market.

The Department wants access to commercial innovation. It wants faster procurement pathways. It wants solutions that can move at the speed of the mission. And in many cases, that creates real opportunity for agile small businesses and nontraditional contractors.

The businesses that benefit most will not be the ones waiting around for perfect solicitations.

They will be the ones doing the work early.

They will know where they fit. They will build relationships before the requirement is public. They will pursue teaming and subcontracting where it makes sense. They will present their capabilities clearly. And they will use market intelligence to make better decisions with less wasted motion.

The government may be trying to move faster.

Small businesses need to be ready to move with it.

As requirements change, FedBiz Access gives businesses a clearer path to stronger documentation practices and a more competitive performance position. If you need help navigating these changes or need assistance winning in the government marketplace, call today: 844-628-8914 or book a call at your convenience.

Book a Free Consultation

Book An Appointment

Excellent

FedBiz Access4.9

Based on 843 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Bryan Johnson

17 hours ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 week ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

1 week ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

1 week ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 weeks ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 weeks ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 weeks ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

Here’s a professional review you could leave for Mya:

Mya was outstanding to work with throughout the entire capability statement process. She was professional, responsive, knowledgeable, and made the experience extremely smooth from start to finish. Her attention to detail and willingness to collaborate ensured that the final product accurately reflected our organization and mission.

I truly appreciate the time and effort Mya put into helping us complete our capability statement. Her customer service and communication were exceptional, and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for professional business support services. Thank you again, Mya, for all your hard work and dedication.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

george bianchi

4 weeks ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

1 month ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

1 month ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

2 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

2 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

2 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

2 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

3 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

3 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

3 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

3 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

3 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

3 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

4 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

4 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

4 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

6 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

6 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

6 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

6 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

6 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

6 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

6 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

George Boza

6 months ago

Mrs. Elbanay continues to be consistently efficient and proficient concerning all all SAM matters. We have worked with her for several years and always go back to her with any SAM or government agency matters. She is pleasant person who listens and resolves any situation and/or subject brought to her attention. Summarizing, she is second to none and we look great forward to working her again.

Once again we have the opportunity to work with Cassie Elbany and as expected she surpassed our expectation with her efficient and professional approach and completion of our new registration. It becuase of Cassie above average support that we work with FEDBIZACCESS and will continue to do so.

Response from the owner:We appreciate the opportunity to continue being of service, as needed, from registration to award. Thank you for your repeat business and your positive feedback for our Fed Biz Access government contracting, dedicated team member.

Julia Perez

7 months ago

SAM Register (Fedbizz Access) has been a great help every step of the way, Thank you Cassie E. for updating me and checking up on the process every step of the way. You have been a great help.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist. Thank you for this five star review for our FedBiz Access dedicated consultant and thank you for your business.

cathy deLeon

7 months ago

Ashley was very helpful as always! Easy to register with FedBiz. Ashley took care of our address cheange fast and efficiently. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you; We appreciate your repeat business and opportunity for FedBiz Access professionals to assist with your government contracting needs.

Meghan Ruth

7 months ago

Cassie has been amazing!!

She is so helpful and such a breeze to work with. I always look forward to talking with her.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service every step of the way; thank you for your business and your five star feedback!

Jessica Sumner

7 months ago

Cassie assisted in making our SAM renewal fast and EASY!!

Response from the owner:Always here to answer any of your government contracting questions and keep the process "fast and easy!". Thank you for your feedback!

Joe Rementer

7 months ago

Cassie was patient and professional in updating my FedBiz account information.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist. We appreciate your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Warren Gatson

7 months ago

Fedbiz has been the needle in the Haystack!
Frank Krebs became Executive Service Contractor's mentor with the information and resources , his professional and friendly approach ESC were awarded a contract with the City of Chapel Hill! Its was a Darn Good Investment!!!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent contract award and thank you for your five star google review and feedback for FedBiz Access. Its our pleasure to see the intended results come to fruition with the expert advice provided and your diligent efforts in staying the course to achieve your goal. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your success!

The post DoD Acquisition Reform Is Moving Faster. Small Businesses Should Be Paying Attention. appeared first on FedBiz Access.

That is only partly true.

Yes, Q4 is the federal government’s busiest buying stretch because the federal fiscal year ends on September 30, and many annual appropriations must be obligated before that deadline. In plain English, agencies are under pressure to get valid requirements funded and awarded before the clock runs out. That year-end urgency is real, and it has been documented for decades in federal oversight and appropriations guidance.

But here is the part many newer contractors miss: by the time Q4 shows up, a lot of the serious positioning work is already done.

The contractors who get traction in July, August, and September are often the ones who started building visibility, shaping relationships, and tracking likely buys earlier. That is why Q3 is such an important window. In the federal calendar, Q3 runs from April through June, while Q4 runs from July through September. If you wait until Q4 to introduce yourself, learn the agency, or figure out where you fit, you are usually behind someone who did that homework in Q3.

Why Q4 becomes a rush in the first place

Federal buying does not become hectic at year-end because agencies suddenly get interested in vendors. It becomes hectic because budget execution has deadlines.

Most agencies operate with funding tied to the federal fiscal year. When money is available only for a fixed period, agencies generally must obligate it within that period or lose access to it for new needs. That is one of the biggest reasons you see a surge in buying activity as September approaches. Oversight sources have long shown heavier obligation activity late in the year, and current market analysis still tracks strong Q4 patterns across federal contracting.

That does not mean agencies are carelessly throwing money around in September.

It means program offices, contracting teams, and finance staff are trying to close out approved requirements, use available funds properly, and avoid leaving mission needs unresolved. Some awards are planned months in advance. Others accelerate because funding lands late, internal approvals take longer than expected, or year-end operating pressure forces decisions. Either way, the vendor who looks prepared, relevant, and easy to work with has an advantage.

That is good news for newer contractors, because it means Q4 success is not just about being the biggest or oldest company. It is often about showing up at the right time with the right message and being ready when the need becomes urgent.

Why Q3 is the smarter time to move

Think of Q3 as the setup period.

Program teams are refining needs. Forecasts are visible. Small business offices are active. Industry engagement events are happening. Contracting offices are still shaping acquisition strategies in many cases, which means there is still room to learn what matters, where your offer fits, and who is likely to buy. SBA specifically tells small businesses to review agency procurement forecasts, use federal spending systems to research opportunities, and contact agency small business offices. GSA’s Forecast of Contracting Opportunities tool and multiple agency forecast portals are built for exactly this kind of early positioning.

This is where the process feels less intimidating once you strip away the noise.

You do not need to know every regulation on day one. You do need to know which agencies buy what you sell, how they describe those needs, who supports small business engagement, and what signals point to an upcoming requirement. That is very manageable if you break it into steps.

What small contractors should do in Q3

Here are three practical moves that are worth doing now, especially if you want a real shot at Q4 business.

1. Build a shortlist of agencies before you chase opportunities

One of the most common mistakes new contractors make is trying to market to “the government” as if it were one buyer.

It is not.

A better move is to identify three to five agencies or sub-agencies that already buy what you sell. Start with agency procurement forecasts, SAM.gov opportunity notices, and federal spending data. SBA explicitly points contractors to procurement forecasts and agency small business offices, and SAM.gov is the official place to search contract opportunities, including pre-solicitations, solicitations, and award notices. USAspending is the official open data source for federal awards and is useful for seeing where money has already gone.

This is also why many FedBiz Access customers have turned to FedBiz365 for AI-powered insights that help surface relevant opportunities faster and break down solicitations into clear, easy go/no-go decisions.

Then ask simple questions.

Who buys this most often?
Are they using small business set-asides?
Is the work recurring?
Are similar awards landing in Q4 each year?

That last question matters. If an office tends to buy a service every summer or every September, you want to know that before the next requirement appears.

2. Use OSDBU and industry engagement like a positioning tool, not a formality

A lot of newcomers hear “industry day” or “small business office” and assume it is optional networking fluff.

It is not.

GSA recently emphasized that industry days help agencies communicate mission needs and constraints clearly, and they help vendors respond with something more useful than generic sales language. SBA also points contractors toward agency small business offices as part of the path to winning work. Agencies such as DHS, USDA, and VA maintain active small business outreach resources, forecast tools, and engagement events specifically to connect vendors with upcoming needs.

So if you attend an event in Q3, do not treat it like a box to check.

Show up with a tight capability statement, a clear description of the problem you solve, and one or two relevant examples. Afterward, send a short follow-up that references the agency’s actual mission or requirement theme. That makes you easier to remember when acquisition activity heats up later.

3. Prepare a “fast response” package before Q4 chaos starts

This is the tactic many small firms skip, and it costs them.

Create a simple internal package now so you are not scrambling later. That package should include an up-to-date capability statement, past performance examples, NAICS codes, differentiators, certifications, pricing assumptions where appropriate, and a short response template for RFIs, sources sought notices, and capability briefing requests.

Why does this matter?

Because Q4 often compresses timelines. Contract opportunities can move quickly, and pre-solicitation notices on SAM.gov can turn into active solicitations faster than a new contractor expects. If your materials are still being rewritten while a competitor is already answering the requirement, you lose momentum before the race starts.

A reality check for first-time contractors

None of this means Q4 is easy money.

Federal buyers still care about fit, compliance, price, past performance, and procurement rules. Small business goals help create opportunity, but they do not replace readiness. The government-wide small business prime contracting goal remains 23%, with additional goals for several socioeconomic categories, which is encouraging for qualified firms, but agencies still need vendors that can perform.

That is why the smartest mindset for Q3 is not “How do I sell harder?”

It is “How do I become easier to buy from by the time Q4 gets busy?”

That means understanding your target agencies, speaking in their language, watching the right signals, and being ready to respond when an opportunity becomes real.

For a new contractor, that is a much less intimidating way to look at the market.

You are not trying to master the whole federal system overnight. You are building a focused position with the buyers most likely to need you.

The takeaway

Q4 may be the spending rush, but Q3 is where a lot of the advantage gets created.

If you use Q3 to identify likely buyers, study forecasted requirements, engage small business offices, attend relevant industry events, and tighten your response materials, you put yourself in a much stronger place when year-end buying accelerates.

And that matters, because by the time many contractors wake up to Q4, the better-prepared firms are already in the conversation.

If you want to be ready for Q4, now is the time to act.

Call today at 844-628-8914 or schedule a call to make sure your business is positioned before the year-end rush hits. FedBiz Access can help you connect with the right government buyers, strengthen your positioning, and get your business ready for the busiest federal buying period of the year.

And if you want better visibility into what is coming, FedBiz365 gives contractors three major advantages: it helps you locate the right opportunities, break down solicitations in seconds so you can make faster go or no-go decisions, and find government buyer contact information so your outreach is aimed at the right people from the start.

Use Q3 wisely, and Q4 can look a whole lot different.

Book a Free Consultation

Book An Appointment

Excellent

FedBiz Access4.9

Based on 843 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Bryan Johnson

17 hours ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 week ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

1 week ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

1 week ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 weeks ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 weeks ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 weeks ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

Here’s a professional review you could leave for Mya:

Mya was outstanding to work with throughout the entire capability statement process. She was professional, responsive, knowledgeable, and made the experience extremely smooth from start to finish. Her attention to detail and willingness to collaborate ensured that the final product accurately reflected our organization and mission.

I truly appreciate the time and effort Mya put into helping us complete our capability statement. Her customer service and communication were exceptional, and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for professional business support services. Thank you again, Mya, for all your hard work and dedication.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

george bianchi

4 weeks ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

1 month ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

1 month ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

2 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

2 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

2 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

2 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

3 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

3 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

3 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

3 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

3 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

3 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

4 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

4 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

4 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

6 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

6 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

6 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

6 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

6 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

6 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

6 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

George Boza

6 months ago

Mrs. Elbanay continues to be consistently efficient and proficient concerning all all SAM matters. We have worked with her for several years and always go back to her with any SAM or government agency matters. She is pleasant person who listens and resolves any situation and/or subject brought to her attention. Summarizing, she is second to none and we look great forward to working her again.

Once again we have the opportunity to work with Cassie Elbany and as expected she surpassed our expectation with her efficient and professional approach and completion of our new registration. It becuase of Cassie above average support that we work with FEDBIZACCESS and will continue to do so.

Response from the owner:We appreciate the opportunity to continue being of service, as needed, from registration to award. Thank you for your repeat business and your positive feedback for our Fed Biz Access government contracting, dedicated team member.

Julia Perez

7 months ago

SAM Register (Fedbizz Access) has been a great help every step of the way, Thank you Cassie E. for updating me and checking up on the process every step of the way. You have been a great help.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist. Thank you for this five star review for our FedBiz Access dedicated consultant and thank you for your business.

cathy deLeon

7 months ago

Ashley was very helpful as always! Easy to register with FedBiz. Ashley took care of our address cheange fast and efficiently. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you; We appreciate your repeat business and opportunity for FedBiz Access professionals to assist with your government contracting needs.

Meghan Ruth

7 months ago

Cassie has been amazing!!

She is so helpful and such a breeze to work with. I always look forward to talking with her.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service every step of the way; thank you for your business and your five star feedback!

Jessica Sumner

7 months ago

Cassie assisted in making our SAM renewal fast and EASY!!

Response from the owner:Always here to answer any of your government contracting questions and keep the process "fast and easy!". Thank you for your feedback!

Joe Rementer

7 months ago

Cassie was patient and professional in updating my FedBiz account information.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist. We appreciate your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Warren Gatson

7 months ago

Fedbiz has been the needle in the Haystack!
Frank Krebs became Executive Service Contractor's mentor with the information and resources , his professional and friendly approach ESC were awarded a contract with the City of Chapel Hill! Its was a Darn Good Investment!!!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent contract award and thank you for your five star google review and feedback for FedBiz Access. Its our pleasure to see the intended results come to fruition with the expert advice provided and your diligent efforts in staying the course to achieve your goal. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your success!

The post Why Q3 Is the Real Start of Q4 in Government Contracting appeared first on FedBiz Access.

“Can you certify this is BABA-compliant?”

That is usually the moment the scramble starts. The buyer is already tied to a federally funded infrastructure project. The bid is moving. The project team needs documentation. And the supplier that thought it was “just selling parts” suddenly learns its product is being incorporated into a bridge, water system, broadband build, transit improvement, or other public infrastructure job that carries domestic content rules. By then, changing suppliers, rebuilding a bill of materials, or tracing where components were made can be expensive, slow, or impossible.

That is exactly why small contractors and suppliers need to understand BABA early, not after a compliance request lands in their inbox.

Why So Many Small Businesses Get Caught Off Guard by BABA

For many small businesses, the biggest issue is not intentional noncompliance. It is lack of visibility.

You may be selling parts, assemblies, fabricated materials, controls, or specialty products to a contractor, distributor, or manufacturer without realizing the end use is a federally funded infrastructure project. Then, once the buyer needs proof of domestic content compliance, they push that requirement down the chain. Suddenly, a business that never thought of itself as a government contractor is being asked to document where products were manufactured, where components came from, and whether the item meets Build America, Buy America standards.

By that point, the timing can be brutal. Pricing has already been submitted. Suppliers have already been selected. Lead times are already tight. If the product does not qualify, the buyer may have to replace it, seek a waiver, or move on to another vendor.

What Build America, Buy America Actually Covers

The Build America, Buy America Act applies to federal financial assistance for infrastructure projects in the United States. That means it is not limited to direct federal procurement contracts. It also reaches grants, cooperative agreements, loans, and other types of federal assistance when those funds are used for infrastructure.

This is an important distinction because many small businesses assume domestic content rules only apply when they are selling directly to a federal agency. That is not how BABA works. A company can be several steps removed from the government and still be part of a covered project.

The term infrastructure is interpreted broadly. Depending on the funding and agency, it can include things like:

• Roads and highways
• Bridges
• Rail and public transportation
• Airports and ports
• Drinking water and wastewater systems
• Utilities and electrical transmission
• Broadband infrastructure
• Buildings and public facilities
• Energy generation and distribution systems
• EV charging infrastructure

If federal assistance is helping pay for one of these projects, there is a good chance BABA requirements need to be considered.

What BABA Requires for Covered Projects

For covered infrastructure funding, the rule is that iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in the project must be produced in the United States unless a valid waiver applies.

That sounds simple until you get into the categories.

Iron and Steel

For iron and steel products, all manufacturing processes must take place in the United States, beginning with the initial melting stage and continuing through coatings and other required processing.

Manufactured Products

For manufactured products, the standard is generally two-part. The product must be manufactured in the United States, and the cost of U.S.-made components must be greater than 55 percent of the total component cost unless a stricter program-specific requirement applies.

Construction Materials

For construction materials, all manufacturing processes for the material must occur in the United States.

Why Classification Matters

One of the trickiest parts of BABA compliance is determining which category an item falls into. A product should fit into only one category, and the category affects what standard applies.

That means a supplier cannot assume all products are evaluated the same way. A metal-heavy item might trigger one analysis. An assembled device with multiple components might trigger another. Misclassifying the product can create serious compliance problems later.

Real-World Example: When a “Commercial Sale” Becomes a Compliance Problem

Let’s say you manufacture control housings, brackets, or specialty metal components. A regional fabricator buys from you regularly. From your perspective, it feels like a normal commercial relationship.

Later, you learn those parts are being incorporated into equipment for a federally funded bridge project.

Now your customer needs documentation showing whether your item meets BABA standards. They may need to know where the manufacturing occurred, whether the components meet the required domestic threshold, and whether the item was classified correctly. If you do not have those answers ready, your product may become a risk to the project.

Or imagine you distribute materials used in broadband deployment. You may think you are simply filling orders for a contractor. But if those materials are going into a federally supported broadband build, the project team may need documentation before installation or reimbursement.

These are the kinds of situations where small suppliers get blindsided.

The Timing Problem That Makes BABA So Dangerous

The biggest business risk with BABA is not just the rule itself. It is the timing.

By the time the compliance question is asked, the important decisions may already have been made.

Milestone 1: The Funding Is Already Covered

Build America, Buy America requirements have been in effect for covered infrastructure assistance since May 14, 2022. Since then, agencies have continued refining implementation through regulations, guidance, and program-specific procedures.

That means many active infrastructure awards already carry domestic content requirements somewhere in the chain.

Milestone 2: Award Dates Matter

The timing of the federal award or funding obligation matters because implementation rules evolved over time. Newer obligations are now governed under the current framework in 2 CFR Part 184.

For a small supplier, the practical takeaway is straightforward: do not assume a project is exempt just because it has been underway for a while. The funding path and award date matter, and your buyer may be working under rules that already require compliance documentation.

Milestone 3: Sourcing Decisions Happen Before Documentation Requests

This is where companies lose deals.

A buyer may not ask for proof of compliance until after pricing is submitted, procurement planning is underway, or materials are already being sourced. But domestic content compliance is not something you can always fix at the last minute.

If your supply chain is global and you have not mapped where manufacturing happens, you may have no way to support a certification. If the domestic content percentage misses the mark, you may need to redesign sourcing. If lead times are tight, switching vendors may kill the delivery schedule.

That is why BABA readiness needs to happen before the paperwork request, not after.

Why Waivers Are Not a Reliable Backup Plan

Some businesses assume that if a product does not qualify, the project owner can just request a waiver.

That is a risky assumption.

Waivers are allowed in limited circumstances, such as when applying the rule would be inconsistent with the public interest, when compliant products are not available in sufficient quantity or quality, or when using domestic products would increase project cost by more than 25 percent. But those waivers are not automatic. They require justification, review, and public transparency.

In practical terms, that means a waiver can take time your buyer may not have. If you are counting on a waiver to save a deal at the last minute, you may already be too late.

Why Highway and Bridge Suppliers Should Be Especially Alert

Some sectors have additional timing urgency because program-specific standards are tightening.

A major example is federal-aid highway and bridge work. For certain projects obligated on or after October 1, 2025, final assembly of manufactured products must occur in the United States. For projects obligated on or after October 1, 2026, those products must also satisfy the greater-than-55-percent domestic component cost standard.

That means businesses serving highway and bridge markets should not wait until 2026 to react. Buyers are already planning around those milestones now.

What Small Contractors and Suppliers Should Do Right Now

The good news is that BABA preparation is manageable when you start early.

Ask Better Questions Up Front

Do not wait for the buyer to bring up domestic content compliance. Ask whether your products are going into a federally funded infrastructure project. Build that question into quotes, order intake, onboarding, and sales conversations.

Map Your Supply Chain

You need a clear understanding of where final manufacturing occurs, where your major components come from, and how your products are likely to be classified under BABA. If you do not know that yet, now is the time to find out.

Organize Documentation Before It Is Needed

If a buyer asks for proof, you should not be starting from scratch. Build standard documentation processes now. Keep supplier certifications, manufacturing records, sourcing details, and product-level compliance notes organized and ready to share.

Review Product Categories Carefully

Do not assume every item is treated the same way. Some products will fall under iron and steel rules. Others will be manufactured products. Others may be construction materials. The category changes the compliance analysis.

Watch for Program-Specific Rules

BABA is a broad federal framework, but agencies and programs may have their own guidance, waivers, and implementation details. What applies under one funding program may not look identical under another. That is why staying informed matters.

The Bigger Business Lesson

The companies most likely to win in this environment are not just the ones with a good product. They are the ones that can answer compliance questions quickly and confidently.

That matters because buyers do not want uncertainty. If your competitor can provide clean domestic content documentation and you cannot, the buyer may choose the safer option even if your product is strong.

That is the real BABA lesson for small business suppliers. This is not just a legal or procurement issue. It is a business development issue, a sales issue, and a supply chain issue all at once.

If you wait until someone asks for proof, you may already be out of position.

Final Thoughts: Get Ahead of the Compliance Question

Build America, Buy America is affecting more small businesses than many owners realize. You may not think of yourself as operating in government contracting, but if your products are flowing into federally funded infrastructure projects, these rules can reach you.

And once that buyer asks whether you are compliant, the clock is already ticking.

Getting ahead of BABA means understanding where your products go, how they are sourced, and whether you can support your claims with documentation. It means treating compliance as something that needs to be built into your sales and supply chain process early.

If you need help identifying government contracting opportunities aligned with your business, or you would like a demo of FedBiz365—our AI-powered market intelligence tool that helps you quickly locate relevant opportunities and find contacts for government buyers purchasing what you sell—call FedBiz Access today: 844-628-8914 or book a call at your convenience.

Getting in front of the right opportunities early matters. Being ready for the compliance questions that come with them matters even more.

Book a Free Consultation

Book An Appointment

Excellent

FedBiz Access4.9

Based on 843 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Bryan Johnson

17 hours ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 week ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

1 week ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

1 week ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 weeks ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 weeks ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 weeks ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

Here’s a professional review you could leave for Mya:

Mya was outstanding to work with throughout the entire capability statement process. She was professional, responsive, knowledgeable, and made the experience extremely smooth from start to finish. Her attention to detail and willingness to collaborate ensured that the final product accurately reflected our organization and mission.

I truly appreciate the time and effort Mya put into helping us complete our capability statement. Her customer service and communication were exceptional, and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for professional business support services. Thank you again, Mya, for all your hard work and dedication.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

george bianchi

4 weeks ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

1 month ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

1 month ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

2 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

2 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

2 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

2 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

3 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

3 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

3 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

3 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

3 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

3 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

4 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

4 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

4 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

6 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

6 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

6 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

6 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

6 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

6 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

6 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

George Boza

6 months ago

Mrs. Elbanay continues to be consistently efficient and proficient concerning all all SAM matters. We have worked with her for several years and always go back to her with any SAM or government agency matters. She is pleasant person who listens and resolves any situation and/or subject brought to her attention. Summarizing, she is second to none and we look great forward to working her again.

Once again we have the opportunity to work with Cassie Elbany and as expected she surpassed our expectation with her efficient and professional approach and completion of our new registration. It becuase of Cassie above average support that we work with FEDBIZACCESS and will continue to do so.

Response from the owner:We appreciate the opportunity to continue being of service, as needed, from registration to award. Thank you for your repeat business and your positive feedback for our Fed Biz Access government contracting, dedicated team member.

Julia Perez

7 months ago

SAM Register (Fedbizz Access) has been a great help every step of the way, Thank you Cassie E. for updating me and checking up on the process every step of the way. You have been a great help.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist. Thank you for this five star review for our FedBiz Access dedicated consultant and thank you for your business.

cathy deLeon

7 months ago

Ashley was very helpful as always! Easy to register with FedBiz. Ashley took care of our address cheange fast and efficiently. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you; We appreciate your repeat business and opportunity for FedBiz Access professionals to assist with your government contracting needs.

Meghan Ruth

7 months ago

Cassie has been amazing!!

She is so helpful and such a breeze to work with. I always look forward to talking with her.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service every step of the way; thank you for your business and your five star feedback!

Jessica Sumner

7 months ago

Cassie assisted in making our SAM renewal fast and EASY!!

Response from the owner:Always here to answer any of your government contracting questions and keep the process "fast and easy!". Thank you for your feedback!

Joe Rementer

7 months ago

Cassie was patient and professional in updating my FedBiz account information.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist. We appreciate your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Warren Gatson

7 months ago

Fedbiz has been the needle in the Haystack!
Frank Krebs became Executive Service Contractor's mentor with the information and resources , his professional and friendly approach ESC were awarded a contract with the City of Chapel Hill! Its was a Darn Good Investment!!!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent contract award and thank you for your five star google review and feedback for FedBiz Access. Its our pleasure to see the intended results come to fruition with the expert advice provided and your diligent efforts in staying the course to achieve your goal. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your success!

The post Build America, Buy America: The Domestic Content Rule That Can Knock Small Suppliers Out of a Deal Before They Even Know They’re In It appeared first on FedBiz Access.

The trick is translating “DHS spends a lot” into a targeting plan: which components to prioritize, which requirement categories repeat, where competition is avoidable, and how to time your outreach so you’re relevant when money moves.

Below is a FY2025-informed roadmap showing how to think about DHS spending patterns and where small businesses can realistically win.

Start with the scale and why it matters for contractors

DHS’s total budget context matters because it signals what components are under operational pressure and therefore rely heavily on contracting. In the President’s FY2025 DHS Budget in Brief, DHS outlined a total budget of $107.9B, including $62.2B in net discretionary funding.

Practical implication for small businesses: even when “new starts” slow down, DHS still has a massive operations-and-support reality. Staffing, IT, facilities, logistics, detention support, transportation, maintenance, cybersecurity, and program management don’t pause. This is why DHS consistently uses established contract channels like IDIQs, BPAs, GWACs, and GSA schedules to keep throughput high.

Competition reality: where small businesses can avoid knife-fights

DHS is consistently measured against small business contracting goals, and those goals matter because they shape acquisition strategies and set-aside decision-making. DHS also publishes component-level small business goals, which is useful because it shows where participation is being actively managed across the major DHS components.

Practical implication: your best competition strategy inside DHS is usually not trying to out-muscle incumbents in full-and-open. It’s positioning into small business set-asides (including socio-economic categories), task order competitions under vehicles that already restrict pools, and simplified acquisition lanes where smaller buys are repeatable and relationship-driven.

Don’t treat DHS like one giant recompete. Treat it like a portfolio of recurring buys where the entry points are often vehicle plus office plus timing.

Who actually buys inside DHS and why component targeting beats “DHS targeting”

DHS buying power is concentrated in the major operational components. Even when you sell through an enterprise contract vehicle, the funding and the mission owner tends to sit in components such as CBP, ICE, TSA, the Coast Guard, CISA, FEMA, and USCIS. Each has different procurement rhythms and different definitions of what “value” looks like.

Actionable approach:

• Pick two components as your home base where your capability map fits cleanly.
• Pick one adjacent component as a fast follower.
• Build component-specific past performance language that reflects that mission.

That framing difference matters. “IT support” to a cybersecurity mission reads differently than “IT support” to a disaster-response organization, even if the labor categories are similar.

How DHS buys: follow the vehicles, not just the solicitations

DHS leans heavily on contract vehicles because they reduce procurement lead time and allow ordering offices to move faster. In practice, you’ll see DHS buying through a mix of:

• GSA schedule ordering for commercial products and services
• Governmentwide contract vehicles and IDIQ ecosystems for technology and professional services
• Agency and component-specific IDIQs and BPAs for recurring, high-volume requirements
• Task orders where the competitive action is inside a limited pool

Practical implication: when you see DHS requirements repeating, your first question shouldn’t be “Where’s the next stand-alone solicitation?” It should be:

• What vehicle does this requirement typically flow through?
• Who holds seats on that vehicle today?
• Which ordering offices place the task orders?

Solve that first and you stop wasting time chasing postings that are statistically less common for recurring DHS needs.

NAICS and PSC concentration: expect heavy services, tech, and operational support

DHS spending tends to cluster around a few families of work that are consistently needed across components:

• IT and cybersecurity, including cloud and managed services support
• Professional services like program management, engineering support, analysis, and training
• Facilities and base operations support
• Mission operations support such as maintenance, logistics, and operational staffing
• Emergency and disaster-related support, including surge staffing and logistics

Practical implication: your win rate rises when your positioning is category-specific and component-specific at the same time. “We do cybersecurity” is broad. “We support continuous monitoring, vulnerability management, and incident response with experience aligned to civilian mission environments” is a better DHS-ready message.

FY2025 timing patterns: why Q4 still matters and what to do earlier

Federal fiscal years end on September 30, and year-end obligation behavior is real across government. You don’t want to be the contractor introducing yourself for the first time in late September.

What tends to work better:

• Q2 through Q3: build familiarity through capability briefings, vendor outreach sessions, and short value-driven touchpoints
• Early Q4: position as a low-friction option, meaning vehicle-ready, quote-ready, and past performance ready
• Late Q4: focus on what buyers can execute quickly like options, mods, task orders, and BPA calls

This approach matters because DHS buyers often need vendors who can execute with minimal administrative drag when timelines compress.

Set-asides versus full-and-open: use DHS goal structures as your compass

DHS tracks and plans small business participation by component, and those planned goals influence how acquisitions get structured and how set-asides get considered.

How to translate that into action:

• If your target component is pushing hard on small business goals, prioritize set-aside eligible pursuits, OSDBU outreach, and vendor engagement events tied to that component’s buying offices.
• If your target requirement area is frequently full-and-open, shift your energy toward getting on the right vehicle pools, building relationships with primes, and targeting subcontractable work packages that incumbents routinely outsource.

Either way, you should choose your lane intentionally: prime strategy or partner strategy. Trying to do both at once usually dilutes results.

Where small businesses tend to win inside DHS: repeatable wedge plays

Here are several wedge strategies that consistently map to how DHS buys.

Vehicle-first entry

If you’re on the right contract vehicle, you can compete at the task order level where pools are constrained and evaluation cycles are faster.

Ops support packaging

DHS components buy outcomes: uptime, throughput, compliance, staffing continuity, and mission readiness. Package your offer like an operational solution with clear deliverables and responsiveness, not a generic labor list.

Component narrative rewrites

Take one capability statement and create three mission-aligned versions. Same core solution, different mission language. Border operations, aviation security, cyber resilience, maritime operations, or disaster response all frame the value differently.

Relationship plus responsiveness advantage

DHS offices reward vendors who can answer quickly and cleanly with compliance. Often, the vendor who responds correctly and fast becomes the vendor remembered when tasking drops.

How FedBiz365 helps you operationalize this without living in spreadsheets

Most small businesses hit the same wall with DHS: they understand the opportunity, but they burn days locating the right opportunities, mapping who buys them, and maintaining consistent outreach.

FedBiz365 is designed to remove that friction.

FedBiz365 is an AI-driven market research tool that helps you quickly locate DHS opportunities aligned to your capabilities by automatically pulling in your government profile information and matching it to relevant opportunities. It also provides lists of contracting officers and buyer contacts tied to those opportunities so you can move from searching to targeted outreach much faster.

If you want to see what this looks like using your profile and NAICS mix, call today: 844-628-8914 or schedule a complimentary review at your convenience and we’ll walk you through a demo of how FedBiz365 can support your DHS pipeline.

Conclusion: treat DHS like a portfolio, not a lottery ticket

DHS is big, complex, and mission-driven, meaning it will always need contractors who can execute reliably. The small business path is real, but it’s not “bid more.” It’s:

• target the right components
• follow the vehicles
• align to recurring categories
• position before Q4 execution windows
• choose prime versus partner lanes intentionally

If you want a clearer DHS pursuit plan built around your actual capability set and a faster way to identify matched opportunities, call today: 844-628-8914 or schedule a complimentary review for a FedBiz365 demo. We’ll show you where you fit, who buys what you sell, and what to prioritize next.

Book a Free Consultation

Book An Appointment

Excellent

FedBiz Access4.9

Based on 843 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Bryan Johnson

17 hours ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 week ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

1 week ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

1 week ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 weeks ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 weeks ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 weeks ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

Here’s a professional review you could leave for Mya:

Mya was outstanding to work with throughout the entire capability statement process. She was professional, responsive, knowledgeable, and made the experience extremely smooth from start to finish. Her attention to detail and willingness to collaborate ensured that the final product accurately reflected our organization and mission.

I truly appreciate the time and effort Mya put into helping us complete our capability statement. Her customer service and communication were exceptional, and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for professional business support services. Thank you again, Mya, for all your hard work and dedication.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

george bianchi

4 weeks ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

1 month ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

1 month ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

2 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

2 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

2 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

2 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

3 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

3 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

3 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

3 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

3 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

3 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

4 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

4 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

4 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

4 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

6 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

6 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

6 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

6 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

6 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

6 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

6 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

George Boza

6 months ago

Mrs. Elbanay continues to be consistently efficient and proficient concerning all all SAM matters. We have worked with her for several years and always go back to her with any SAM or government agency matters. She is pleasant person who listens and resolves any situation and/or subject brought to her attention. Summarizing, she is second to none and we look great forward to working her again.

Once again we have the opportunity to work with Cassie Elbany and as expected she surpassed our expectation with her efficient and professional approach and completion of our new registration. It becuase of Cassie above average support that we work with FEDBIZACCESS and will continue to do so.

Response from the owner:We appreciate the opportunity to continue being of service, as needed, from registration to award. Thank you for your repeat business and your positive feedback for our Fed Biz Access government contracting, dedicated team member.

Julia Perez

7 months ago

SAM Register (Fedbizz Access) has been a great help every step of the way, Thank you Cassie E. for updating me and checking up on the process every step of the way. You have been a great help.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist. Thank you for this five star review for our FedBiz Access dedicated consultant and thank you for your business.

cathy deLeon

7 months ago

Ashley was very helpful as always! Easy to register with FedBiz. Ashley took care of our address cheange fast and efficiently. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you; We appreciate your repeat business and opportunity for FedBiz Access professionals to assist with your government contracting needs.

Meghan Ruth

7 months ago

Cassie has been amazing!!

She is so helpful and such a breeze to work with. I always look forward to talking with her.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service every step of the way; thank you for your business and your five star feedback!

Jessica Sumner

7 months ago

Cassie assisted in making our SAM renewal fast and EASY!!

Response from the owner:Always here to answer any of your government contracting questions and keep the process "fast and easy!". Thank you for your feedback!

Joe Rementer

7 months ago

Cassie was patient and professional in updating my FedBiz account information.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist. We appreciate your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Warren Gatson

7 months ago

Fedbiz has been the needle in the Haystack!
Frank Krebs became Executive Service Contractor's mentor with the information and resources , his professional and friendly approach ESC were awarded a contract with the City of Chapel Hill! Its was a Darn Good Investment!!!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent contract award and thank you for your five star google review and feedback for FedBiz Access. Its our pleasure to see the intended results come to fruition with the expert advice provided and your diligent efforts in staying the course to achieve your goal. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your success!

The post DHS in FY2025: What the Spending Patterns Tell Small Businesses (and How to Act on Them) appeared first on FedBiz Access.

Late yesterday the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released implementation guidance that will fundamentally reshape federal purchasing for “common goods and services.” The memorandum instructs agencies to lean on existing government‑wide contracts—especially the General Services Administration’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS)—before even considering a new vehicle, and it outlines a 60‑day clock for changes to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) that will make this mandate binding. 

If you have ever thought about getting on the GSA Schedule, the window for playing the long game just slammed shut. Getting awarded—and being ready when agencies must use Schedule solutions—can mean the difference between riding a tidal wave of consolidated spend or watching opportunities flow to your competitors.

What the Memo Says in Plain English

The bottom line: Schedule holders will be first in line for the consolidated $500 billion slice of federal spend that OMB calls “common.”

Why the MAS Is Suddenly the Fast Track to Federal Dollars

Only about 20 percent of those common requirements currently flow through GSA vehicles. OMB’s goal is to push that percentage dramatically higher—unlocking economies of scale and lowering administrative costs across government. 

For small and mid‑sized businesses, that shift is potent:

• Reduced Contract Duplication = Lower Bid Barriers
  Agencies will stop reinventing solicitations. Instead, they’ll issue task orders against pre‑competed MAS SINs (Special Item Numbers). If you hold the right SIN, you are automatically in the competition.
• Faster Award Cycles
  Ordering off MAS means agencies can skip the lengthy FAR Part 15 formal source‑selection dance. That speed is gold in Q4 when “use‑it‑or‑lose‑it” funds dominate.
• Built‑In Compliance
  MAS pricing is pre‑negotiated and FAR‑compliant. When the new rules force contracting officers to justify deviating from MAS, many will stick with the safer path.

Four Tests Your Offering Must Pass

The memo says GSA will prioritize consolidation for requirements that:

1. Do not vary by agency mission
2. Are highly commercial with little customization
3. Are easy to standardize
4. Deliver efficiency through reduced variation 

If your product or service checks those boxes—IT hardware and SaaS, security software, office furniture, professional services with defined labor categories—you should assume MAS will become the preferred (or mandated) channel.

Countdown to FAR Changes: What Happens Next?

• Day 0–60: Category managers identify new mandatory contracts.
• Day 60–120: FAR council releases interim rules; agencies begin routing acquisition plans through MAS by default.
• Day 120–180: First wave of enforcement. Contracting officers must submit deviation requests if they want an open‑market vehicle. Those requests will be scrutinized in real time.

Smart contractors will treat these milestones like a procurement lunar eclipse—rare, predictable, and hugely consequential.

Real‑World Signals: GSA Is Preparing the Market

GSA’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) scheduled a live “Getting on Schedules” webinar for today, July 23—a clear signal that the agency expects a spike in vendor interest.

Webinars like this typically fill up fast, and GSA is known to adjust content based on policy shifts. That means the guidance you hear this week will likely map directly to OMB’s new compliance timeline.

How to Position Your Company—Now

1. Gap‑Analysis Your Readiness
   • Do you have commercial sales data and pricing support?
   • Are your Trade Agreements Act (TAA) certifications in place?
   • Have you mapped your products/services to the right SINs?
2. Leverage Quick‑Start Paths for Small Businesses
   Certain small‑business set‑aside SINs (e.g., 54151S for IT Services) have streamlined mods for on‑ramping new vendors when demand spikes.
3. Pair MAS with Certifications
   OMB’s memo doesn’t eliminate socio‑economic certification goals. If you are 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, or SDVOSB and on Schedule, you become the easiest button for agencies trying to hit both consolidation and small‑business targets.
4. Prepare for Catalog Refreshes
   As GSA modifies MAS to support new mandatory categories, expect refreshes of solicitation templates. Start drafting mods for pricing and scope now so you are not caught in a freeze.

FedBiz Access Insight: Why Early Movers Win

At FedBiz Access we’ve watched policy waves come and go, but few have the built‑in urgency of this one. Over the last 24 years we’ve shepherded thousands of firms onto the GSA Schedule—long before “consolidation” became today’s headline. Our GSA Contract Management team then keeps those clients current, compliant, and visible to buyers year after year.

That longevity matters. Once agencies are required to buy from MAS, they will still gravitate to Schedule holders with:

• Clean compliance histories (no SPRS red flags)
• Competitive, well‑maintained pricelists
• Marketing muscle that drives them to the top of e‑Library and GSAAdvantage search results

FedBiz Access provides all three—plus integrated market‑intelligence through FedBiz365 to spot upcoming task orders the moment they post.

The Risk of Waiting

Every MAS refresh takes time: price negotiations, compliance checks, and potential clarifications. If the FAR amendments land on schedule, the surge of applications could double or triple GSA’s current queue—stretching a typical 3–6 month review into nine months or more.

Meanwhile, agencies will still have Q4 funds they must obligate. Contractors who already hold a Schedule—or who submit today—will capture that spend while latecomers watch from the sidelines.

Final Takeaway

The OMB memo is not just another policy tweak; it’s a red‑line moment for how the government plans to buy everyday goods and services. Contractors that secure a GSA Schedule now will be at the front of the line as billions of dollars shift under the consolidation umbrella. Those who hesitate may find the door closed—or at least jammed—by the time their proposal is ready.

For more than two decades, FedBiz Access has been the leading government business‑development firm helping small and medium‑sized businesses navigate every step of the federal contracting journey—from registration to award. If you’re ready to seize this moment:

Call a FedBiz Specialist today at (844) 628‑8914.

Your future federal revenue stream may depend on a decision you make this week.

The post GSA Schedules Just Became Mission‑Critical: Why Contractors Should Act Now appeared first on FedBiz Access.

On March 10, 2025, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched a major initiative designed to bring American-made manufacturing back to the forefront of our economy. Titled the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, this nationwide effort promises to cut regulatory burdens, expand access to capital, and put small manufacturers in the spotlight as key players in both economic recovery and national security.

But what does that mean for government contractors like you?

The answer: opportunity. A lot of it.

This isn’t just another press release or political talking point—it’s a strategic, top-down push to prioritize domestic manufacturing, especially small businesses, across the federal procurement ecosystem. That means more resources, fewer barriers, and a clearer path for small and mid-sized manufacturers to win government contracts.

Let’s unpack the initiative, explore how it benefits contractors, and explain what you can do right now to get ahead.

What Is the SBA’s Made in America Manufacturing Initiative?

The initiative, announced by SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, supports President Trump’s broader manufacturing agenda: rebuilding supply chains, strengthening national security, and sparking a “blue-collar boom” across America.

And the timing couldn’t be better. Small manufacturers make up 99% of U.S. manufacturing firms. They’ve often been overshadowed by larger corporations in federal contracting—but that’s changing.

The Made in America Manufacturing Initiative is all about putting those small manufacturers front and center.

Here’s what the initiative includes:

• $100 Billion in Regulatory Relief: Through the SBA’s Office of Advocacy, outdated or burdensome rules that hurt small manufacturers are being eliminated.
• A National Red Tape Hotline: A new channel for small businesses to report specific regulations that slow them down.
• New Office of Manufacturing and Trade: A dedicated SBA division offering hands-on support, training, and guidance to small manufacturers.
• Expanded Access to Capital: Especially through the 504 loan program for real estate and equipment, and the 7(a) Working Capital Pilot for inventory and export financing.
• Workforce Development: In partnership with trade schools, federal agencies, and private companies to ensure a pipeline of skilled labor.
• Supportive Policies: Including tax cuts, tariffs to ensure fair trade, and 100% capital expensing for manufacturers retroactive to January 20, 2025.
• Made in America Roadshow: SBA officials will meet directly with manufacturers across the country to listen, learn, and engage.

This initiative isn’t just about empowering small manufacturers in the private sector—it’s about making them a go-to supplier base for government needs.

Why Government Contractors Should Pay Attention

If you’re already in the federal space—or thinking about entering—this initiative could reshape your competitive landscape.

Here’s how:

✅ 1. Government Preference for American-Made Goods Is Growing

The push to secure domestic supply chains is stronger than ever. Agencies are being encouraged (and in some cases required) to source American-made products, especially in critical sectors like aerospace, defense, energy, healthcare, and infrastructure.

This means government contractors who manufacture or source domestically will have a major edge in the months and years ahead.

If you can prove your goods are made in the USA, you’re no longer just compliant—you’re in demand.

✅ 2. Less Red Tape = Easier Entry Into Contracting

Regulatory overload has long been one of the biggest hurdles for small businesses trying to enter the federal marketplace. The SBA’s goal to cut $100 billion in regulation is more than symbolic—it’s a real, quantifiable effort to make procurement more accessible.

Add in the new Red Tape Hotline, and you’ve got a two-way channel to influence future reforms. That’s an unprecedented level of access and responsiveness from federal agencies.

The takeaway: Fewer hoops to jump through = more time spent delivering and less time decoding compliance checklists.

✅ 3. New Office of Manufacturing and Trade = More Support for Contractors

This isn’t just a policy update—it’s structural. The newly launched Office of Manufacturing and Trade is now embedded within the SBA and tasked specifically with supporting small manufacturers.

In practice, that means:

• Training on government contracting
• Resources for navigating the procurement process
• Local support from SBA field offices in every state

Think of it as a concierge desk for small manufacturers looking to do business with the government. The more hands-on guidance you have, the easier it becomes to break into or expand in federal contracting.

✅ 4. Better Access to Capital to Grow Your GovCon Readiness

Let’s be honest—federal contracts often require upfront capital. You may need to purchase equipment, expand a facility, or cover payroll before the first invoice ever gets paid.

That’s where the expanded SBA lending programs come in:

• 504 Loan Program: Perfect for financing major assets like machinery or production facilities.
• 7(a) Working Capital Pilot: Designed to help with inventory and international expansion—ideal if you’re planning to export or scale operations.

And because these are zero-subsidy programs, they’re self-sustaining and not subject to political funding swings.

✅ 5. Federal Tax Incentives and Tariff Protections Help Domestic Contractors Compete

If you’ve ever lost a federal bid to an overseas supplier due to pricing, you’re not alone. The new manufacturing agenda aims to change that by:

• Lowering taxes on domestic manufacturing
• Allowing 100% expensing of capital investments
• Imposing tariffs to ensure fair and reciprocal trade

That means the playing field is being leveled—and in many cases, tilted in favor of domestic small businesses.

These financial incentives can significantly improve your bottom line, making your pricing more competitive without cutting corners.

✅ 6. You’ll Be Part of a National Conversation

The Made in America Roadshow is not just for show. It’s an open invitation for small manufacturers to shape how this initiative unfolds.

These SBA-led roundtables and events give you a chance to:

• Meet with SBA and agency decision-makers
• Learn what’s coming down the pipeline
• Share the challenges you face—and the support you need

When was the last time federal leadership asked for your feedback in person?

Now’s your chance to help shape the programs and policies that directly affect your ability to grow in the government space.

How to Prepare for the Opportunity

This all sounds promising—but what should you do now to capitalize on it?

Here’s your action plan:

✅ Confirm Your NAICS Codes

Make sure your SAM.gov registration reflects accurate manufacturing-related NAICS codes. Incorrect or outdated codes can keep you hidden from contracting officers searching for suppliers like you.

✅ Optimize Your SAM and DSBS Profiles

Agencies won’t call you if they can’t find you. Make sure your registration is not only active but optimized to highlight your capabilities, past performance, and domestic manufacturing footprint.

✅ Create or Update Your Capability Statement

This is your government business resume. Make sure it includes:

• Clear mention of your manufacturing capabilities
• Any certifications (ISO, SBA 8(a), HUBZone, etc.)
• Made in America language that aligns with agency goals

✅ Get on a GSA Schedule

With federal buying becoming more centralized and streamlined, being on the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) is more important than ever.

FedBiz Access offers a comprehensive GSA Schedule Proposal Assistance Program. We handle the entire proposal preparation process—so you end up with a ready-to-submit GSA Schedule proposal that’s written to align with GSA review standards.

No guesswork. No lost time. Just a clear path to award.

✅ Explore Outreach Options to Connect With Buyers

Need help getting in front of the right federal buyers?

Our Federal Connections and MatchMaker outreach services are built to help you do just that. We connect you with contracting officers actively seeking suppliers in your space—so you’re not left waiting on SAM.gov listings alone.

Final Thoughts: This Is a Moment of Momentum

The Made in America Manufacturing Initiative isn’t just another government plan—it’s a call to action for small manufacturers to step up and claim their space in the federal supply chain.

With the right preparation and the right support, this initiative can serve as a springboard for long-term growth, expanded reach, and steady government revenue.

If you’re in manufacturing—or thinking of entering—this is your window.

Need Help Navigating the Government Marketplace?

At FedBiz Access, we’ve helped thousands of businesses successfully enter and grow in the federal marketplace over the past 24 years.

From SAM registrations and DSBS optimization, to GSA proposals, capability statements, and direct outreach to federal buyers—we’re your one-stop partner.

? Schedule a complimentary consultation with a FedBiz Specialist today
Let’s put your business in position to thrive under this new Made in America movement—together.

The post Reviving American Industry: What the SBA’s ‘Made in America Manufacturing Initiative’ Means for Government Contractors appeared first on FedBiz Access.

Let’s dive in.

1. Master the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)

Most beginners don’t realize that the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is the playbook for doing business with the federal government. It governs everything—how agencies buy, what they buy, and how they evaluate proposals. If you’re not at least familiar with Parts 12, 13, and 19 of the FAR, you’re walking in blind.

? New contractors benefit by getting help from a firm that can break this down into understandable insights. FedBiz Access offers strategy calls where we walk clients through these rules in plain English and help apply them to real-world bids.

2. Get Registered in SAM.gov—The Right Way

Every government contractor must register in SAM.gov to receive a Unique Entity ID (UEI)—but this is more than a simple form. Mistakes here can delay your ability to bid, or worse, hide your business from procurement officers.

? FedBiz Access has helped tens of thousands of businesses successfully complete and optimize their SAM and DSBS registrations. We don’t just fill in forms—we ensure your profile is attractive to buyers and searchable.

3. Choose the Right NAICS Codes (It’s Not Just About Accuracy)

Picking the right NAICS codes affects your eligibility for small business set-asides and how visible you are to agencies searching for vendors. But here’s a hidden tip: if you don’t list the codes buyers are searching under—even if they’re adjacent to your service area—you may never be found.

? This is where our NAICS Alignment Service comes in. FedBiz Access ensures your profile lists not just relevant codes, but strategic ones based on actual buyer data from our FedBiz365 government market research platform.

4. Develop a Capability Statement That Doesn’t Look Like Everyone Else’s

A capability statement is your government-facing resume. Most of them look the same—generic and forgettable. If yours doesn’t clearly showcase your differentiators and value in 30 seconds or less, it won’t be remembered.

? FedBiz Access specializes in government-formatted Capability Statements that are proven to get attention. We even offer video-enhanced “Company Snapshot Videos” to attach to outreach.

5. Use Certifications to Open More Doors

Certifications like WOSB, SDVOSB, 8(a), HUBZone, DBE, MBE unlock a whole new tier of opportunities, including sole-source awards and set-asides. But navigating SBA applications can feel like deciphering tax code.

? That’s why we offer a Certification Expediting Service—helping you avoid delays and fast-track your eligibility.

6. Do Smart Market Research (Not Just a Keyword Search)

Knowing which agencies are spending in your niche, who they’ve awarded contracts to, and what’s coming down the pipeline is critical. That’s the foundation of winning strategy—but most new contractors don’t know where to look beyond SAM.gov.

? FedBiz Access gives clients access to FedBiz365, where you can filter upcoming opportunities, agency forecasts, competitor awards, and “hidden” pre-solicitation intel not public yet. It’s like SAM.gov… supercharged.

7. Make Friends with OSDBUs and Attend Industry Days

Each agency has an Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). These folks are your bridge to opportunity—they host events, provide forecasts, and can even advocate for your business internally.

? We help clients connect with these offices by packaging outreach through our Federal Connections Package, including targeted email campaigns that attach your capability statement and snapshot video.

8. Learn the Contract Types (So You Price Smartly)

Winning is one thing—profiting is another. If you’re bidding on a Fixed-Price contract when your service involves variable costs, you could be setting yourself up for loss. Understanding the difference between T&M, Cost Plus, IDIQ, and BPA contracts helps you bid smarter.

?️ FedBiz Access helps clients evaluate solicitations before bidding. In one-on-one calls, we walk through contract types and help flag pricing traps so you’re protected from preventable mistakes.

9. Be Meticulous with Compliance and Invoicing

You won the contract. Awesome. But the work isn’t over—agencies expect timely, accurate invoicing through systems like IPP, and failing to submit the right reports can damage your reputation or delay payment.

10. Always Request a Debrief—Win or Lose

Whether you win or not, you’re entitled to a debriefing from the contracting officer. This is one of the most valuable learning opportunities in government contracting. You’ll learn how your bid was evaluated and how to improve next time.

? We teach our clients how to properly request a debrief, interpret feedback, and use it to adjust future proposals. Combined with market research, it’s a one-two punch that improves your next bid.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

Government contracting is complex, yes—but it’s also one of the most rewarding paths for small businesses looking for sustainable growth. If you follow these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls, stand out from the crowd, and start building long-term agency relationships.

Want some help navigating the maze?

? FedBiz Access has been helping businesses win in the government marketplace for over 24 years. Our clients have secured over $36 billion in awards. Whether it’s registration, certifications, market research, or direct marketing—we’re here to walk beside you.

? Schedule a complimentary consultation with a FedBiz Specialist today.

Need Help? Just Ask.

Questions about anything you just read? We’re happy to help. From SAM registration to tailored outreach campaigns, our team makes government contracting less overwhelming and more rewarding.

The post Top 10 Tips for New Government Contractors (That You Might Not Know Yet) appeared first on FedBiz Access.

There’s a quiet shift happening across the federal contracting space—and if you’re a business looking to win awards, it’s time to pay attention.

Under recent administrative changes, contracting officers (COs) are taking on more responsibilities than ever before. The result? A bottleneck of activity that’s leaving little room for error, delay, or guesswork when it comes to evaluating potential vendors.

Simply put: if your business isn’t visible, polished, and credible at a glance—you’re not making the shortlist.

And that’s why visibility in the government marketplace has gone from important… to absolutely essential.

In this article, we’ll break down what’s changing inside federal procurement offices, what it means for small and mid-sized businesses trying to compete, and how you can stand out, get noticed, and get awarded in today’s fast-moving environment.

The Visibility Problem: Why You Might Be Invisible to Buyers (Even If You’re Registered)

Every year, tens of thousands of businesses register in SAM.gov hoping to sell their products and services to the federal government.

And yet, according to data from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) and industry watchdogs like the Professional Services Council, contracting officers are often tasked with managing dozens to hundreds of active solicitations at once.

That means they’re skimming through mountains of vendor profiles, outdated websites, and capability statements that are often missing critical details—or worse, poorly written and forgettable.

It’s not that your company isn’t qualified.
It’s that you’re not being seen—or not being trusted—at first glance.

What’s Driving This Shift in Federal Procurement?

While federal spending remains strong—especially in areas like infrastructure, cybersecurity, IT modernization, and defense—the operational side of procurement is feeling the squeeze.

Several key trends are driving the increased burden on contracting officers:

1. Retirements and Staffing Gaps

Many experienced COs have retired over the past few years, and government agencies have struggled to backfill positions fast enough. As a result, those still in place are stretched thin.

2. Executive Orders and Reform Mandates

Recent executive orders aimed at increasing small business participation and improving procurement efficiency (such as Executive Order 14192) have added complexity to the acquisition process. COs are required to balance socioeconomic goals, cybersecurity compliance, and environmental mandates—all while still awarding contracts.

3. Accelerated Spending Cycles

As year-end deadlines and budget expiration windows tighten, contracting officers are under pressure to spend remaining funds quickly and compliantly. This makes them less likely to spend time researching vendors that don’t immediately inspire confidence.

The bottom line?
COs are overworked, under-resourced, and in need of easy decisions.
And businesses that show up clean, complete, and credible make their jobs easier—which gives those businesses a serious advantage.

Visibility: The New Competitive Edge in Government Contracting

Here’s what visibility looks like in today’s marketplace:

• A fully optimized SAM and DSBS profile that’s searchable, accurate, and aligned
• A professional Capability Statement that follows the government’s preferred format
• A credible, modern website that tells your story and showcases your capabilities
• A proactive approach to getting in front of the right contracting officers

If you’re missing even one of these elements, you’re likely being passed over for competitors who do have them.

In a world where COs have less time and more options, the businesses that win contracts are the ones that show up looking ready to do business—without requiring extra effort to understand what they do.

That’s exactly what FedView™ was built to deliver.

Introducing FedView™: The Visibility Bundle That Drives Awards

At FedBiz Access, we’ve spent more than 24 years helping businesses break into—and scale within—the federal marketplace. We’ve seen every visibility mistake in the book, and we’ve spent years refining the solution.

FedView™ is our answer to the modern visibility problem.
It’s a comprehensive, done-for-you bundle designed to ensure that when contracting officers come across your business, they take notice—and feel confident moving forward.

Here’s what’s included in FedView, and why each part matters:

SAM & DSBS Profile Optimization

Be seen in the systems that matter.

Most buyers start their search in SAM.gov or the Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) database. But here’s the problem: the majority of profiles are incomplete, out of date, or misaligned with what buyers are actually looking for.

With FedView, our experts:

• Review and professionally optimize your SAM and DSBS entries
• Ensure alignment with your NAICS codes, keywords, and core competencies
• Eliminate errors that could cost you visibility or credibility
• Add the FedBiz Access SAM Certified Badge, giving buyers added trust

Whether you’re new to the space or have an existing profile, we make sure you’re searchable, discoverable, and aligned with today’s best practices.

Capability Statement + Company Snapshot Video

Make the shortlist in 30 seconds or less.

Buyers don’t have time to piece together your story from a cluttered website or outdated PDFs. Your capability statement is your federal résumé—and it needs to hit all the right notes.

FedView includes:

• A professional, customized Capability Statement in the preferred federal format
• Content written to showcase your differentiators, past performance, and value
• A visually polished layout designed to stand out and impress
• A short, high-impact Company Snapshot Video that tells your story at a glance

Whether they read or watch, buyers walk away with a clear picture of who you are—and why they should engage with you.

5-Page Showcase Plus Website

Your online presence, built for government buyers.

Contracting officers will Google your business. If your website isn’t built with them in mind, they might leave with the wrong impression—or none at all.

We build a 5-page, mobile-friendly, SEO-optimized website that includes:

• Home
• Services
• About Us
• Contact
• Government Contracting Page (with Capability Statement download, NAICS codes, and differentiators)

It’s clean. It’s credible. It’s designed specifically to support your contracting goals—and built for how procurement officers browse and evaluate businesses today.

Federal Connections Package

Get seen by the right buyers, faster.

Even with perfect visibility, if no one knows you’re out there, you’re still invisible.

With FedView’s Federal Connections Package, we take proactive steps to introduce your business to key decision-makers. You’ll receive:

• A one-time direct email send to targeted contracting officers who purchase what you sell
• A downloadable list of those buyers for follow-up and future outreach
• Coaching materials to help you connect, build rapport, and follow up effectively

It’s a smart way to jumpstart your outreach, build early relationships, and get on the radar of the people who matter most.

The FedView Difference: Why It Works

FedView isn’t just a checklist of tasks—it’s a strategic alignment of your business’s public-facing presence. From profile to website to outreach, everything works together to build trust and eliminate friction in the decision-making process.

And that’s exactly what today’s contracting officers need.

When they’re under pressure, short on time, and expected to award contracts to qualified small businesses, they don’t want to dig for details. They want clear, credible businesses they can say “yes” to with confidence.

FedView helps you become that business.

Built for New Contractors, Growing Businesses, and Everyone in Between

Whether you’re brand new to government contracting or you’ve already submitted a few bids without results, FedView is designed to help you:

• Build a strong foundation
• Accelerate trust with buyers
• Stand out from the crowd
• Get in front of decision-makers
• Position your business for long-term success

And with support from the FedBiz Access team, you’re never on your own. We walk you through each step, provide guidance, and handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what you do best—running your business.

Ready to Be Seen?

If you’re tired of wondering why no one is reaching out…
If you’ve felt invisible in the marketplace…
If you’re ready to look like the qualified, professional business you truly are…

FedView™ was built for you.

This is your opportunity to get aligned, get polished, and get noticed by the people who award contracts—at the exact moment when visibility matters most.

Call a FedBiz Specialist today to learn more about FedView: (844) 628-8914

Or schedule your complimentary consultation at your convenience.

FedBiz Access has helped businesses of all sizes succeed in the government marketplace for over 24 years, supporting more than $36 billion in awarded contracts across every major sector. From registrations to visibility to outreach—we’re your trusted partner in federal business development.

Get FedView. Get Noticed. Win More.

The post Why Visibility Is Everything in Today’s Government Marketplace appeared first on FedBiz Access.