but our proven 6-step blueprint makes it straightforward and efficient for GSAFocus Customers.
Our expertise transforms your federal sales approach, ensuring your business stands out and succeeds in the competitive government marketplace.
If this is the case … you’re in the right place.
GSAFocus has served 6 00+ clients with a 98% satisfaction rate… a refund guarantee… and an average 87x ROI.
Play VideoA GSA Contract (AKA Multiple Award Schedule) is managed by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA).
It is a Long-term agreement between a Vendor (Company) and the GSA …
It provides federal agencies with Pre-Negotiated prices, terms, and conditions for products and services…
It Simplifies the buying process, making it easier for agencies to acquire goods and services from approved vendors
A GSA Contract is valuable for Contractors looking to expand their federal sales.
Either way , you likely already know about the fantastic benefits of getting your business a GSA Schedule Contract, such as…
☑️ Fewer competitors — less time spent “marketing”…
☑️ Shorter sales cycles — less time spent “selling”…
☑️ Consistent sales — economy-proof demand for your services and goods…
☑️ Fair, reasonable prices — negotiate only once – with our help! – and you’re DONE.
Before you dive into the GSA Schedule process, it’s important to know what makes this a good move for your company. This chapter will cover the very first step, and walk you through what it takes to be eligible to get into the GSA Schedule program. You can also complete our pre-screen webform:
If you are looking to get a GSA Contract, there are five primary areas to review before submitting your offer package to the GSA. It is very important that these areas are considered before the time and money is invested in pursuing a GSA Schedule Contract.
If you are a start-up, you will most likely need to wait until you can provide two years of Financial documents. One exception is that if you are going to pursue the IT Schedule 70, there is a program called “Startup Springboard” that will allow you to submit without 2 years of experience.
Your past performance must “fit” into the Scope description of at least one GSA Schedule subcategory (called Special Item Numbers – or SIN’s). Therefore, you must review the GSA Schedule List to assure your offerings have a place in the GSA Contract program.
Not only must you fit the scope of the descriptions, but you must back it with documentation (such as Invoices, Contracts, PO’s, Proposals, etc.). The GSA wants to know that you have performed the services, or fulfilled the product orders, you are submitting for. You must be able to provide the GSA with customer information, invoices, contracts, etc. If your company is legally bound to withhold documents from any third party, then you will likely have some obstacles to overcome. Additionally, if you only have a small group of customers, then that can make this requirement difficult to fulfill.
The GSA looks at your past two years of Financials (Balance Sheet and Profit/Loss Statement). They make sure that your company is financially strong. The GSA Acquisition Center will have a quick review of your company’s financial strength. If any red-flags go up, then a detailed review will occur.
Your company must have a clean history, because the GSA does some digging into your Companies past.
No history of federal fraud
Open lawsuits must have a reasonable explanation
Company personnel names must be excluded for the black list
Tax payments must be paid
Your DUNS Record must be somewhat up-to-date
You must have a good business record with Agency Customers.
There are several things to consider before pursuing a GSA Contract:
Do you know who in the federal government buys what you sell? Where are the buyers located? In DC? Military Bases? Internationally? Is your pricing competitive? Are your offerings the best value? How will you communicate your Value to the federal buyers? What are the best Conferences, Events, etc. for you to attend?
Do you have the time and personnel to search out federal opportunities and respond with proposals with thoughtful solutions? This is one fo the most important indicators fro success in the federal market.
Most federal awards are smaller and in the $25,000 to $100,000 range. However, if you are awarded a multi-million dollar federal contract how would it impact your business? Do you have the financial tools to absorb a few hundred thousand dollars in labor before you even invoice the government? Some contracts are structured this way and it must be considered.
Your experience is a major factor when Agency Buyers consider your company and solution. It helps to be well-established, and it also helps if you have one or several advantages in the market. This could be anything from reseller discounts, to a larger network of materials, to a larger network of specialized labor. You do not always have to have federal experience to win bids, but it helps to have years of experience in your industry, and to have a reputation at least within your own community.
Before you dive into the GSA Schedule process, it’s important to know what makes this a good move for your company. It involves time and money investment to succeed in the Federal Market, and a GSA Contract is a powerful tool. You must have a well-trained and motivated staff (even if that is just you), and must know how to take advantage of the GSA systems to turn Agency Leads into GSA Sales.
With planning and discipline, you can thrive in the Federal Market with a GSA Contract. The average GSA Contractor makes around $3 Million annually.
Getting a GSA Contract can launch your company to the next level. The US Government is the world’s largest buyer.
Getting the GSA Contract is an advantage and allows you access to more opportunities. However this is only the first step, you still have to hustle and actively pursue business.
In the eyes of a government buyer, a GSA Contract legitimizes a Contractor as a trusted source. You are not required to get a GSA Contract to do business with the government, however it is the preferred contracting source for many buyers. Every GSA Contract holder has access to online GSA systems, such as GSA Advantage!, GSA E-Buy, GSA Reverse Auctions, and are easily found by buyers seeking out a particular product or service. So, access to these systems is a very large advantage.
Additionally, GSA Contract Holders have completed many parts of a Purchase Order already, which cuts-down the paperwork effort required for a buyer. Many businesses experience rapid growth through a GSA Contract, but it is not easy. You must still work very hard to connect with buyers, and keep competitive.
There are several systems that connect GSA Contractors to opportunities:
GSA eBuy – The exclusive website where federal buyers post opportunities. GSA Contractors can view the details and upload their Proposal right into the system. ( Link to eBuy ).
GSAAdvantage! – Think of the Amazon.com of federal contracting. Buyers can search for products they need and pay with a credit card. They also use this system as a search engine for services (More information: GSA Advantage ).
GSA eLibrary – Each GSA Contractor has their own landing page for buyers to research them ( Link to GSA eLibrary ).
GSA Symposium – An annual conference only available to GSA Contractors, with breakout sessions and scheduled one-on-one meetings with agency buyers.
Federal purchasing is one of the most regulated things in the world. Spending taxpayer dollars must be handled carefully. The GSA's Multiple Award Schedule program offers buyers a simplified way to purchase. This lowers their liability and time investment to award to a GSA Contractor.
GSA Contracts last 20 years. They are 5-year options with 3 renewals.
You are only competing with other GSA Contractors for opportunities. Less competition means you have a better chance to win.
Federal buyers know that a company with a GSA Number has been vetted by the GSA, and that their pricing is fair. This adds legitimacy to your business, even in the open market.
Any company selling to the federal government (or looking to break into the federal market should consider a getting a GSA contract. It enables a company to easily access government opportunities and speeds the federal buying process. Because of the government’s push to improve procurement efficiency, government customers are increasingly using GSA contracts. The GSA Schedule program has become the preferred purchasing tool for government buyers to purchase products and services. In recent years, government customers have purchased over $37.5 Billion in products and services using GSA contracts.
You've probably heard that federal contracting is endless "red tape." There really are seemingly endless procurement regulations. The GSA Schedule Program (Multiple Award Schedule Program) simplifies these issues because terms and conditions, as well as discounting are negotiated up front. This enables you to focus to the federal buyers searching out your products or services instead of dealing with endless paperwork.
Your products are listed on GSA Advantage (the Amazon.com for federal buyers). You are given a Landing Page on GSA eLibrary. And you also gain access to exclusive opportunities on GSA eBuy.
You only get a GSA contract if your meet all of the government in depth "due diligence " process. Getting a GSA contract includes an intangible benefit where your business is super-trustworthy in the eyes of federal buyers.
Once on the GSA list, you pool of competition drops dramatically. Only around 4% of registered federal contractors are in the GSA Schedule program.
Typical government contracts can take up to 265 days or more, while the average order under a GSA contract is issued in 15 days on average.
There are many GSA Contract sub-categories, and it is not always obvious which are the best fit.
The majority of GSA Contracts are within Information Technology (IT Products or Services), and Professional Services (Engineering, Business/Management, Financial, Training, Advertising/Marketing, Language/Translation, Environmental, and Logistics). However, there are many other categories within the GSA Schedule program.
A GSA Schedule is a government contract that offers pre-negotiated prices and terms for products and services, organized into large and small categories with specific Special Item Numbers (SINs). Understanding and selecting the correct GSA Schedule and SIN is crucial for success. Each GSA Schedule consists of various SINs that detail specific products and services. It’s essential to ensure that your business experience aligns with the scope descriptions of the SINs you choose, as any misalignment can lead to rejection.
Navigating the numerous GSA categories can be challenging due to overlaps. Thorough research is necessary to identify the best fit for your business. It’s also strategic to select categories based on where your services align best, rather than just focusing on sales volume. This approach can enhance your visibility to federal buyers.
Utilizing professional guidance can significantly ease this process. Experts can help you navigate scope conflicts and streamline your contract pursuit, ultimately saving you time and effort. Selecting the right GSA Schedule and SINs is essential for a successful GSA contract, ensuring alignment with your business capabilities and optimizing your presence in the federal market.
1. Facilities:
Services and products related to building operations and maintenance, including HVAC, plumbing, janitorial, and landscaping services.
2. Furniture & Furnishings:
Office furniture, decor, and furnishings for federal buildings, including seating, tables, storage solutions, and blinds.
3. Human Capital:
Services related to workforce management, including staffing, recruitment, training, and employee benefits.
4. Industrial Products & Services:
A wide range of industrial supplies and services, such as tools, machinery, and safety equipment, as well as maintenance and repair services.
5. Information Technology:
IT products and services including hardware, software, cybersecurity, cloud services, and IT support.
6. Miscellaneous:
Various products and services that don’t fit into other categories, such as flags, musical instruments, and commemorative items.
7. Office Management:
Office supplies and administrative services including office equipment, document services, and mail management.
8. Professional Services:
Consulting, technical, and professional services including legal, financial, engineering, and marketing services.
9. Scientific Management & Solutions:
Laboratory equipment, scientific instruments, and services related to scientific research and management.
10. Security & Protection:
Products and services for physical security, personal protection, and law enforcement, including alarm systems, surveillance equipment, and protective gear.
11. Transportation & Logistics Services:
Transportation services, logistics solutions, and related products including vehicle leasing, shipping, and warehousing.
Travel services and products including lodging, travel booking, and vehicle rental services.
If this is the case … you’re in the right place.
GSAFocus has served 6 00+ clients with a 98% satisfaction rate… a refund guarantee… and an average 87x ROI.
Play VideoGetting a GSA Contract starts with selecting your GSA Schedule, and then downloading the Solicitation Package which guides you through the process. However, GSA Solicitation documents are hundreds of pages, and their instructions are confusing.
Below we will walk you through the process of preparing the GSA Offer (document package prepared in the very specific way that the GSA requires).
The process to get GSA Certified requires many steps, but the best way to breakdown the process is to look at the components
There are several different docs that may be required for your GSA Offer, it varies depending on which GSA Schedule you are pursuing. You will find these documents within the Solicitation Package, and the instructions will be within the Solicitation Document. Some of these documents include:
Three of the requirements to complete your GSA Offer package involve a third party, and these can sometimes be difficult to manage:
Stages to Get a GSA Contract
Initially, a document package, called an “offer” is prepared and submitted electronically to the GSA for review. After the GSA has had time to review the Offer document package, they commonly respond with several clarification items, which must be addressed promptly. This Clarification Process continues for several iterations until the GSA offer documents are deemed acceptable by the GSA Contracting Officer reviewing them.
The GSA is as technological as any Federal Agency, and their submission system, E-Offer, is handled through the web. A Digital Certificate grants an employee or GSA specialist access to the E-Offer account for a company. The upload process involves a 7-step process: Corporate Information, Negotiators, Goods/Services, Standard Responses, Solicitation Clauses, Upload Documents, Submit eOffer. Pretty much anyone could handle the upload into the eOffer system. However, all information entered must completely match with the information in the document package, or the GSA offer may be rejected.
Once the GSA has completed an initial “Pre-Screen” of your Offer documents, they will either reject or move into “Clarifications.” GSA Clarifications are the process where the Contracting Officer (CO) coordinates with the Contractor or Consultant to fill small gaps in the offer. They will send a short or long list of questions and/or supporting items needed.
When the GSA CO is fully satisfied with the documents in the Offer, they will move the process into Negotiations, where everyone jumps on a phone call to discuss final terms of the GSA Contract before award.
Congratulations if you make it to GSA Clarifications with your Offer, most that make it this far are awarded (eventually!). Primarily, you are celebrating that your offer has not been rejected. It won’t feel like a celebration, however, since in reality you will receive an email with a list of demands and likely a short deadline. Welcome to the GSA Clarifications stage of getting a GSA Contract.
In order to even make it to Clarifications with your GSA Offer must make it through a Pre-Screening, so:
GSA Clarifications handle many of the issues that go deeper than these though. The offer package listed many mandatory documents that you have already submitted, but now you are at the mercy of the GSA Contracting Officer. Every, offer will have a few “gaps” that need to be filled. These “gaps” are usually just areas that need to be better supported, or they are weak points in the due diligence check into your business that must be explained away. GSA Clarifications must be handled with craftiness and timeliness to build momentum towards the next stage, Negotiations.
You can truly celebrate if you make it to negotiations, because you can see the finish line. However, it is important to take this process very seriously or you could end up with a GSA Contract that doesn’t much benefit your company. Negotiations is playing with live Ammo, if you agree to a GSA discount that is too high then it is very difficult to change over the next 5 years (or longer). Additionally, several terms and conditions are discussed and you must be sharp in negotiations to make sure you navigate the clauses well and do not misspeak.
In conclusion, GSA Clarifications are pretty straightforward, but Negotiations are where hiring an outside consultant is of great benefit. A seasoned GSA Contract Consultant goes through these a few times every month. They are experienced, and know how to navigate the negotiation process to assure the most beneficial outcome for your business.
The Award of your GSA Contract usually happens so quickly that it is a bit surreal. But there is much to be done still to get you registered in the GSA systems and unlock the Agency Leads.
Aside from this, you will have some Maintenance and Compliance concerns going into the future, and this is where preparation is very important.
After Negotiations have closed, and your Final Proposal Revision (FPR) Document is submitted, the GSA will begin final processing within their eOffer system. Within 1-2 weeks your GSA Contract will be awarded, and the following will happen:
1. Your Company will be issued a GSA Contract number
2. You will get an email with the Contract Summary
3. Your GSA eLibrary landing page will be created
4. you will likely get some spammy emails (only trust @gsa.gov email accounts)
The award process requires some final actions to complete the GSA registration process, and start getting leads and PO’s in your inbox:
1. Register your contract for SIP in the Vendor Support Center
2. Prepare and upload your Catalog File for SIP upload
3. (If products), prepare and upload your product / price / photo / etc. files in SIP
4. Submit your SIP files and wait for GSA approval
5. Set-up GSA Sales tracking in your accounting software, this will help with monthly reporting
6. Train your Sales Staff on how to (an not to) use the GSA Contract for sales
7. Begin implementing your bullet-proof GSA marketing plan
After you have your GSA Contract, you have finally made it to the starting line – GSA Management. I know that sounds bad, you thought the race was over. It helps to think of getting your GSA Contact as Basic Training, and now you are ready for battle. Winning with your GSA Contract takes (1) Preparation and (2) Discipline. GSA Management is not easy, but it is vital for success.
Preparation comes into play when you develop a solid marketing plan in order to sale to the federal government. This will include getting your set-asides in order, getting your GSA Contract, attending networking events, etc. Also, this means searching and tracking bid opportunities, and pursuing them with proposals. It requires a good deal of preparation, in the form of building staff and processes.
After a few weeks of GSA Management, you will likely learn that the Federal Market is very similar to the commercial market in some ways, but also very different in others. Here are some insights that speak to those similarities and differences:
With both, the best value should win, but best price usually wins. They are both in large part offices and employees using products and services, so the needs are often similar. The Fed has a complicated Bidding and Acquisition process, while businesses do what they want. With Fed competition is limited but mandatory, while businesses can do what they want. Federal Contracting Officers are held accountable to taxpayers (and can be sued personally), while businesses do what they want. Federal awards can be protested and overturned, Businesses can do what they want.
So, a commercial buyer has much more freedom than a federal buyer. They do what they want, right. These things are important to keep in mind when working with a federal buyer, there are so many more hoops that they must jump through, and if you can make the hoops go away, you will win their hearts and their budgets. Did you think GSA Management would be anything other than politics?
Discipline comes into play in the form of (1) GSA Contract upkeep, and (2) GSA Contract Compliance. GSA Management is not fun and they are not going to win you anything, but they will keep you out of hot water.
Keeping your GSA offerings fresh is a very important step in proper GSA Contract Management. You don’t want to offer a widget on GSAAdvantage! for $100, if you are paying the Manufacturer $120 for that item. On the flip side, if the Manufacture price drops, you want that to reflect on your GSA Contract so you can sell more of them.
You can perform several types of modifications to your GSA Contract: Add, Price Change, Delete, Admin changes. Modifying your GSA Contract is relatively easy (especially if you are a GSA Focus Customer). There were around 30 documents involved in getting your GSA Contract, but a modification only uses 5-10 documents.
After your modifications are approved, you must post the updates to GSAAdvantage! (again, very easy if you are a GSA Focus Customer) . Then, the changes are live for all federal buyers to see.
GSA Contract Compliance
There are a few major aspects of GSA Compliance, but it is advisable that you get acquainted with all of the requirements that relate to your GSA Contract. Here are a few of the major Compliance topics:
Minimum Sales Requirement – You must sell at least $25,000 through your GSA Contract every year. The GSA gives you two years in the first round to build some sales momentum.
Price Reductions Clause – Your agreement with the GSA regarding the discount you offer them reaches into your commercial practices. So, you could have major compliance issues if you do not have a standardized price list commercially that you follow to the T.
TAA Compliance – Selling Chinese products through GSA is not allowed, because of something called the Trade Agreement Act (TAA). Many other countries are not permissible either. This gets pretty complicated at times, especially when “Country of Origin” is not 100% obvious if components are made in multiple countries (where some are compliant and some are not).
Wage Determinations – Service-based GSA Contract Holders are held to the local standards of the SCA or Davis Bacon wage determinations in some cases. This is hammered-out when getting a GSA Contract, and must be followed throughout the life of the contract.
Others – There are many other important and relevant Clauses in the Solicitation document that lead you to getting your GSA Contract. Additionally, the FAR is an ever-growing object. It helps to become a federal contracting nerd, so you can keep up with the changing landscape under you. It also helps to have a good Lawyer that specializes in Government Contracts.
