A Sources Sought notice is the government asking, before it writes a solicitation, "who out there can do this?" It is market research, not a request for bids, so most contractors ignore it. That's a mistake, because your answer can shape the job.
Why it matters
- It decides set-asides. Under the "rule of two", a contracting officer sets a job aside for small businesses when they expect at least two capable small firms to bid at a fair price. Sources Sought responses are how they find out. If small firms don't respond, the job may go out open to everyone.
- It gets you known. The contracting officer and the program office read your name before the job is even posted.
- It gives you a head start. You learn about the job weeks or months before the solicitation drops.
What to send (2 to 4 pages)
- Company basics: legal name, UEI, CAGE code, address, point of contact, and your size and any certifications (small business, HUBZone, women-owned, veteran-owned) under the NAICS code in the notice.
- Answers to every question asked, in the order asked. Many notices include a short questionnaire.
- Relevant experience: two or three similar jobs with size, location and what you did. Private and commercial work counts.
- Capacity: crew size, equipment, bonding capacity if the job is large.
- Helpful comments on the draft scope, if invited, such as a realistic schedule or a common product that would increase competition.
What not to do
- Don't send prices unless asked; it's not a bid.
- Don't send a generic brochure that ignores the questions.
- Don't miss the response date; it's usually short.
Sources Sought notices and pre-notices show as "Coming soon" on our open jobs board. Filter by your trade and answer the ones you'd want to bid.