What Makes an Engaging, Winning Capability Statement?

What Makes an Engaging, Winning Capability Statement?

One of the most powerful tools in a Government Contractors arsenal is your capability statement, often referred to as your “government resume.” But what exactly makes a capability statement not just effective, but a winner? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the essential elements of an engaging, winning capability statement, the significance of these components, and how they can make the difference between landing a contract and being passed over.

Capability Statement With Company Snapshot Video Example
Capability Statement with Video Ex.

Before we get into the specifics, it’s important to understand what a capability statement is and why it’s so crucial in government contracting. A capability statement is a concise, clear, and visually appealing document that outlines your business’s core competencies, past performance, and differentiators. It’s your opportunity to make a compelling case to government agencies and prime contractors about why they should choose your business over others.

Think of it as your elevator pitch in written form—it needs to capture attention quickly, convey your strengths effectively, and leave a lasting impression. Government agencies receive countless capability statements, so yours needs to not only communicate your capabilities but also resonate with the reader on a deeper level.

To create an engaging and winning capability statement, it’s essential to include the following core components:

  1. Company Overview
    • Your company overview should be a succinct summary that includes your business name, location, and a brief description of what you do. This section should also highlight your mission, vision, and core values. Remember, this is your first impression—make it count.
  2. Core Competencies
    • Core competencies are the bread and butter of your capability statement. This section should clearly outline the specific services or products your business offers. Focus on what you do best and how those competencies align with the needs of the government agencies you’re targeting.
  3. Differentiators
    • What sets your business apart from the competition? Your differentiators should answer this question. Whether it’s a unique technology, a specialized service, or a proven track record in a specific industry, this section should make it clear why a government agency should choose you over another contractor.
  4. Past Performance
    • Government agencies want to work with businesses that have a proven track record of success. Include examples of past contracts, particularly those with government agencies, and detail the outcomes. Be specific about the results you achieved, such as cost savings, efficiency improvements, or successful project completions.
  5. Corporate Data
    • This section should include your business’s legal name, DUNS number, CAGE code, NAICS codes, and any certifications or socioeconomic statuses (e.g., women-owned, veteran-owned, 8(a)). This information is crucial for government agencies to identify your business in their databases.
  6. Contact Information
    • It may seem basic, but providing clear and accurate contact information is essential. Include the names, titles, phone numbers, and email addresses of key contacts within your company. Make it easy for government representatives to reach out to you.

While the content of your capability statement is crucial, how that content is presented can be equally important. A well-designed capability statement should be visually appealing and easy to read. Here are some design tips to ensure your document stands out:

  • Use a Clean, Professional Layout: Avoid clutter and keep the design clean. Use headings and bullet points to break up text and make the document easy to scan.
  • Incorporate Your Branding: Include your company’s logo and use colors that align with your brand identity. Consistent branding helps reinforce your company’s image.
  • Be Concise: Government officials are busy and don’t have time to wade through pages of information. Keep your capability statement to one or two pages and focus on the most critical information.
  • Include High-Quality Images: If appropriate, include images or graphics that support your content, such as pictures of past projects or infographics that highlight key data.
Watch “Company Snapshot Video” Example

In today’s digital age, static documents often fail to capture the attention they deserve. This is where the Company Snapshot Video, an innovative feature offered by FedBiz Access, comes into play. A Company Snapshot Video is a short, tailored video that encapsulates the essence of your business in a visually engaging and easy-to-digest format.

  • Why Video Matters: Video content is more engaging and memorable than text alone. It allows you to tell your company’s story in a way that resonates emotionally with your audience. A well-produced video can convey your company’s mission, values, and capabilities in a dynamic format that is likely to leave a lasting impression.
  • Integrating Video with Your Capability Statement: At FedBiz Access, we don’t just provide you with a static document. Our Company Snapshot Video is designed to complement your capability statement, providing a powerful visual narrative that enhances your overall message. This integration of video can make your capability statement more interactive and appealing, setting you apart from competitors who rely solely on traditional formats.

To ensure your capability statement has the maximum impact, consider these additional tips:

  1. Tailor Your Capability Statement to Your Audience
    • While it’s tempting to create a one-size-fits-all capability statement, tailoring your document to specific agencies or contracts can significantly increase its effectiveness. Research the agency or contractor you’re targeting and adjust your capability statement to highlight the competencies and past performances that are most relevant to their needs.
  2. Keep It Up-to-Date
    • Your capability statement should be a living document that evolves with your business. Regularly update it to reflect new projects, contracts, certifications, or changes in your core competencies. An outdated capability statement can quickly lose credibility.
  3. Highlight Success Stories
    • Where possible, include brief success stories or testimonials from satisfied clients. These can serve as powerful endorsements and help build trust with potential government buyers.
  4. Utilize Keywords
    • Government buyers often use specific keywords when searching for contractors. Make sure your capability statement includes relevant industry keywords and phrases that will help your document get noticed in searches.
  5. Leverage FedBiz Access’s Expertise
    • Creating a winning capability statement can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to government contracting. That’s where FedBiz Access comes in. With over 23 years of experience and a proven track record of helping businesses secure more than $35.4 billion in awards, we know what it takes to create a capability statement that wins contracts.

At FedBiz Access, we specialize in developing high-quality, aesthetically appealing capability statements that are designed to meet the specific needs of government agencies. Our team of experts understands the nuances of government contracting and knows how to craft a document that speaks the language of government buyers. Here’s what you can expect when you partner with us:

  • Preferred Government Format: Our capability statements are designed in the preferred government format, ensuring they meet all the necessary standards and expectations.
  • Customized Content: We work with you to tailor your capability statement to highlight your unique strengths and differentiate you from your competitors.
  • Company Snapshot Video: Our capability statements come with a Company Snapshot Video, a cutting-edge feature that brings your company story to life in a way that is both engaging and memorable.
  • Proven Results: With over 23 years of experience and moreq than $35.4 billion in awards secured for our clients, we have a proven track record of success in the government marketplace.

In the world of government contracting, a winning capability statement can be the difference between securing a lucrative contract and being overlooked. By incorporating the essential elements we’ve discussed—company overview, core competencies, differentiators, past performance, corporate data, and contact information—into a well-designed and visually appealing document, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

Add to that the innovative Company Snapshot Video, and you have a capability statement that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of government buyers. At FedBiz Access, we’re here to help you create a capability statement that stands out from the pack and positions your business for success in the government marketplace.

If you’re ready to take your government contracting business to the next level, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Schedule a complimentary consultation with a FedBiz Specialist today and let us help you craft a winning capability statement that makes a lasting impression. With our expertise and proven track record, you’ll be well on your way to securing more government contracts and growing your business in this competitive field.


By focusing on the key elements that make a capability statement effective, incorporating the latest in digital presentation with the Company Snapshot Video, and leveraging the expertise of a seasoned team, you can transform your capability statement from a simple document into a powerful tool for winning government contracts. Trust FedBiz Access to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your business stands out and succeeds in the competitive world of government contracting.