The Department of Small and Local Business Development Forecast of Contract Opportunities includes projections of all anticipated contract actions both below $250,000, which are required to go directly to CBEs and above $250,000, subject to subcontracting arrangements with prime contractors. Following these tips to procurement opportunities will make navigating the process much simpler:

• Before contacting a contracting officer, CBEs should be prepared to provide a capabilities statement to the contracting officer;

• Have you researched available solicitations? Get additional information on a specific solicitation by clicking the solicitation number link. This will help you gather information about contracts to participate in the solicitation information session;

Have you familiarized yourself with the DC Supply Schedule Program (DCSS)?

DCSS is the city’s multiple-award schedule for providing commercial products and services to District government agencies. Competitive contracts are awarded to hundreds of suppliers who can provide thousands of products and services to meet recurring needs of these government agencies. Here are some general guidelines for participating in the DCSS:

• All listings in the supply schedule are CBE eligible;

• All participants need to be registered vendors with DC government (see registration guidelines below)
  • Must participate in the Mandatory Pre-Application Workshop
  • Research and review the DC Supply Schedule Awarded Contracts for contract length, current option, remaining options on the contract and potential teaming partners
  • All CBEs must comply with Minimal Insurance Requirements
  • CBEs will need to review all additional information below and sign off on required documents in order to participate in the DC Supply Schedule Program
    • DCSS Terms and Conditions 2010
    • DCSS Program Overview
    • Index of Opportunities/Solicitation and Application Listing
    • Bidder Offeror Certification
    • Quarterly Sales Report Form

Is your small business registered with The District as a vendor?

All businesses seeking to compete for contracting opportunities with the District of Columbia must be registered as a vendor in The District.  As a registered vendor, businesses receive periodic notification of open solicitations base on NIGP codes.  To become a registered vendor, businesses must register for the electronic solicitations system (e-Sourcing).