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Tips for Women Business Owners Applying for Federal Government Contracts
Proposed Changes Make it Critical for Women to Submit Solid Contract Proposals

By Lahle Wolfe, About.com Guide

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The Small Business Administration (SBA) has proposed changes that will make it even tougher for women to get Federal contracts. If the new SBA rulings take effect, women will receive special consideration in only four out of the nearly 2,000 industry categories. Bidding competition for Federal contracts is fierce, so don’t expect to be awarded every contract you apply for. But you can increase your chances of winning by submitting the best possible proposal, with a reasonable pricing structure.

1. Take advantage of the SBA's website

The SBA offers information and resources to help you understand, and apply for, federal contracts and grants. The same rules apply to all business owners, but in some cases, if you are a certified women-owned business, it may help.

2. Register With the Central Contractor Registry (CCR)

If you are awarded a Federal contract, this registration is required in order to make direct payment. Your profile should be current, and accurately reflect information about your business, services and products.

3. Get Small Business Certification

Certification is a review process to ensure that a small business is actually owned, controlled, and operated by the applicant(s).

4. Be Selective

Only apply for contracts that your services can supply. Do not misrepresent the nature of your business in order to try and get a Federal contract; it won’t work.

5. Read the Entire Document and Follow Directions

If you are required to submit information on government forms be sure you use the exact form requested. If the agency requests 12 pitch Arial and 1” margins ONLY use that format. Do not make any creative changes to what was requested – your proposal may be rejected.

6. Answer All Questions

Failing to answer all questions thoroughly will waste valuable time should the contracting officer need to ask for more information; it may even cause your proposal to be outright rejected. Incorrectly following, or failure to complete all steps required to submit your contract bid, will also result in your proposal being rejected.

7. Only Submit What Is Requested

Contracting agents may receive hundreds of bids and proposals. They are looking for specific information that was requested in a bid call. Adding lengthy additional information that does not answer, or support required documentation, will hurt your chances of a getting a thorough review.

8. Write the Best Proposal Possible

Proposals may take 80 or more hours to write; don’t rush through them! Be clear, and have someone proofread your proposal – professional appearance counts so be sure your document is error-free.

9. Don’t Be A Pest

Government workers are not allowed to give you advice for writing your proposal. They can only answer technical question so don’t waste their time calling them for proposal tips. If you do need to call with questions, keep the conversation short and professional, and record the date, time, and name of the representative you speak to.

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