In the high-stakes world of federal government contracting, past performance isn’t just a checkbox – it’s a credibility currency. For small businesses aiming to break into or scale within the federal marketplace, understanding how agencies evaluate past performance can be the difference between a winning bid and a missed opportunity. Whether you’re bidding as a…
Mastering Cost Realism Analysis in Federal Contracting Cost realism analysis is more than a pricing checkpoint. It’s a compliance gate, a performance predictor, and a silent deal-breaker. Under FAR 15.404-1(d), federal agencies use cost realism to assess whether proposed costs reflect the actual effort required. Cost Realism vs Price Reasonableness, Know the Difference Many contractors…
The Power of Partnerships in Government Contracting In government contracting, going solo can only take you so far. Sure, landing that first contract feels great — but if you want to go from small fish to serious contender, you need partnerships in government contracting. These partnerships come in various forms, including teaming agreements, joint ventures,…
Winning your first government contract feels like climbing a mountain — thrilling, exhausting, and a little surreal. But here’s the truth: landing that first deal is just the beginning. The real challenge is scaling in government contracting — transforming a small operation into a sustainable, multi-million-dollar enterprise. Most small businesses enter the government space with…
On October 6, 2025, the DOJ confirmed the dismissal of U.S. Attorney Jessica Aber and Deputy U.S. Attorney Raj Parekh. Both served in the Eastern District of Virginia, a key region for federal contracting cases. The firings followed a sealed internal audit that uncovered case mismanagement and alleged conflicts of interest. A DOJ spokesperson said,…
Federal contract vehicles are the backbone of government procurement. They help agencies buy faster, smarter, and with less risk. If you’re a vendor, understanding federal contract vehicles is essential. These vehicles are pre-approved pathways for buying goods and services. They simplify the acquisition process. They also ensure compliance with federal rules. From GSA Schedules to…
Transitioning from local contracts to federal opportunities can feel like moving from the neighbourhood gym to the NBA—exciting but demanding. This post explores how small businesses can grow across government levels by starting with local wins, leveraging certifications like 8(a) and WOSB, and embracing key industry trends such as digital tools, teaming agreements, and diversity…
Federal contracting is like building a bridge between the government and private companies. The government needs help with things like technology, construction, research, and services. Companies offer their skills and products to meet those needs. But in 2025, building that bridge will become harder. The road is bumpier, the rules are stricter, and the weather…
Under Scrutiny, GAO Lays Out Its Case to Lawmakers The Government Accountability Office (GAO) often called Congress’s watchdog is usually a behind-the-scenes player in Washington, quietly poring over budgets, auditing programs, and issuing reports that most Americans never see. But lately, the 103-year-old agency has found itself in the political spotlight, facing sharp criticism, budget…
Trump Administration Picks Wall Street Veteran for GSA Chief Role The White House has officially nominated Edward Forst, a Wall Street heavyweight with a résumé spanning Goldman Sachs, Cushman & Wakefield, and most recently Lion Capital to lead the General Services Administration (GSA). The move comes more than seven months into President Trump’s second term…