GSA SCHEDULE CONTRACTS
U.S. General Services Administration
Securing a General Services Administration schedule contract is essential for any company aspiring to sell to federal government agencies. These contracts grant companies streamlined access to government buyers, akin to how they market their products to commercial clients. This contract not only expedites the federal purchasing process but also amplifies sales prospects within the government sector. With a growing emphasis on procurement efficiency, federal buyers are increasingly opting to use GSA schedules.
These contracts have become the go-to purchasing mechanism for government procurement officials and decision-makers. Recent regulatory changes in federal contracting have further underscored the importance of holding a GSA government contract for businesses targeting the federal market. As a testament to this, Government Services Administration federal contract sales have consistently risen over the past decade, with an impressive $37.5 billion in products and services purchased through U.S. government contracts in recent years.
With the right knowledge and preparation, your company can tap into the opportunities available through federal contracts with the GSA and establish a presence in the federal market. Start your journey toward becoming a GSA contractor today! With our comprehensive government contracts consulting services, you’ll have the support and guidance needed to navigate this process smoothly and successfully. Don’t wait. Apply for GSA contracts and elevate your business!
Federal Contracting with the GSA
General Services Administration Contracts are long-term, government-wide contracts established with commercial companies that provide access to millions of commercial products and services at volume discount pricing. These contracts simplify the procurement process for federal agencies, ensuring that they can acquire necessary goods and services efficiently and cost-effectively.
In contrast, other government contracts may be more specific to certain agencies or projects and may not offer the same streamlined purchasing process or broad access to federal buyers. These more specific contracts often require detailed negotiations and may not leverage the same bulk purchasing power, potentially resulting in higher costs and longer acquisition times.
Yes, small businesses can obtain contracts from the U.S. General Services Administration. In fact, the GSA actively encourages small businesses to participate in their schedules program. There are even special set-aside programs and opportunities specifically designed to support small businesses, making it an excellent avenue for growth and federal business opportunities.
Examples of these small business programs include:
These designations offer additional advantages, such as limited competition for certain contracts and set-asides specifically for these types of businesses.
The process to obtain a contract can vary, typically taking anywhere from 6 months to a year. This timeline includes the preparation of the proposal, submission, and the review process by the GSA. Working with experienced government contracting consultants can help expedite this process by ensuring that all requirements are met and that the proposal is thoroughly prepared.
Most contracts are valid for a base period of five years, with three potential five-year option periods. This means that, once awarded, your contract can last up to 20 years, provided you remain compliant with GSA requirements and renew your contract as necessary.
Yes, you can modify your contract with the GSA after it has been awarded. This includes adding or deleting products and services, changing prices, or updating terms and conditions. It’s essential to keep your contract up-to-date to reflect your current offerings and market conditions.
The GSA Industrial Funding Fee (IFF) is a fee paid by contractors to the GSA based on sales made through the GSA Schedule Contract. The IFF is currently set at 0.75% of the total sales price. This fee helps cover the administrative costs of the GSA Schedules Program and is included in the prices offered to the government.
Maintaining compliance with your contract involves several key activities:
By following these guidelines and working closely with a knowledgeable consultant, you can maintain compliance and maximize the benefits of your contract.
Yes, registration with the System for Award Management (SAM) is required to obtain a GSA government contract. SAM is the primary database used by federal agencies to search for potential contractors and awardees for government contracts. All businesses that wish to do business with the federal government must register and maintain an active SAM profile.
Need assistance with SAM registration or renewal? Contact us to learn more about our SAM support services. Our team of experts has years of experience navigating the complex processes involved in obtaining and maintaining compliance with both SAM and the GSA.
Please call 1-(855)-700-5143 For Direct Assistance
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM ET
A System for Award Management (also referred to as SAM) Registration must be renewed annually to stay compliant and active. FCC recommends that businesses renew 90 days before the SAM expires to prevent service penalties and/or interruptions.