HomeBusiness Resources hide Doing Business with Department of State A one-stop-shop for all business resources The Bureau of Global Acquisitions (GA) is committed to building strong partnerships with industry. We connect U.S. businesses with opportunities to support the State Department’s global diplomatic mission through federal contracting and assistance programs. Whether you are an experienced federal contractor, grant recipient, or exploring opportunities for the first time, we are here to help What we offer: Clear pathways to State Department contracts and assistance opportunities Practical guidance on how to compete successfully Information on acquisition and assistance priorities and forecasting tools Please Note: This page highlights key steps and resources for doing business with the U.S. Department of State. While not exhaustive, it provides practical information to help you get started. Work With Us Work With Us Are You New to Federal Contracting? Follow these steps to start doing business with the Department of State: 1. Define Your Offerings Identify the Product Service Codes (PSC) and NAICS Codes for your products or services 2. Register Your Business Establish a legal entity within your state Obtain a Federal Tax ID Number Register in System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and complete your profile 3. Identify Your Set-Aside Status Small Business Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Why this matters: Your set-aside status may affect which opportunities you can pursue and help you target the right solicitations. Need help? Visit our Office of Small Business Programs page for guidance on certifications, set-asides, and small business programs. 4. Research Opportunities Determine which State Department bureaus and offices may buy the goods and services you offer Search past contracts on SAM.gov or USAspending.gov to better understand bureau and office needs Check out our Business Forecast for upcoming opportunities Visit Grants.gov for assistance funding opportunities 5. Learn the Rules Familiarize yourself with: Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR): The primary set of rules for all federal government procurement. It covers everything from how to submit bids to contract terms and conditions. Department of State Acquisition Regulation (DOSAR): State Department-specific supplement to the FAR. It addresses unique requirements for diplomatic operations, overseas contracting, and Department-specific policies. Foreign Affairs Handbook (FAH) & Manual (FAM): Operational guidance for State Department programs and procedures, including acquisition and assistance policies, personnel requirements, and administrative processes. 2 CFR Parts 200 and 600: Federal regulations governing grants and cooperative agreements. Part 200 covers general grant administration, while Part 600 addresses State Department-specific assistance requirements. Tip: You don’t need to memorize these regulations. Focus on understanding the basics and know where to find answers when questions arise. Many solicitations will reference the specific sections that apply. 6. Explore Contract Vehicles The government uses contract “vehicles” to streamline procurement. State Department frequently uses: GSA Federal Supply Schedules NASA SEWP OASIS Plus GSA 8(a) STARS Note: If you are not a contract holder, consider teaming or subcontracting to access these vehicles. 7. Tailor Your Approach to State Department Needs Understand What Makes State Different: Global operations across 270+ posts, 24/7 mission-critical support, security and clearance requirements, and complex international logistics Highlight State-Relevant Capabilities: International experience, multi-language and cultural competency, security-cleared workforce, and ability to operate in challenging environments Research State’s Priorities: Review recent awards (USASpending.gov), current opportunities (SAM.gov and Grants.gov) and our Business Forecast for anticipated opportunities 8. Network Strategically Follow us on LinkedIn for announcements about industry days, bidder conferences, and matchmaking events; also check SAM.gov for announcements Build relationships with contracting officers and program managers—remember, this is a long-term investment Connect with our Industry Liaison team for guidance at IndustryLiaison@state.gov 9. Start with Subcontracting Gain experience by subcontracting with current prime contractors Research prime contractors on awarded programs and contact their Small Business Liaison Officers (SBLOs) Explore opportunities on SBA’s SUB-Net Consider Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) agreements and joint ventures 10. Understand Security and Compliance Requirements Many State Department contracts require security clearances and compliance certifications. Plan ahead—clearances can take 12+ months. Key requirements include: Security Clearances: Facility Security Clearances (FCL) are required for your business and Personnel Security Clearances for employees—see FCL Frequently Asked Questions Cloud Services: FedRAMP authorization required if providing cloud services—must be at the appropriate impact level Subcontracting Path: Gain experience with a cleared prime contractor who can sponsor your FCL—often faster than government-only sponsorship Resources Resources Need help or information regarding the contracting process with Department of State? Need help or information about the contracting process? These resources will help you stay informed and competitive. Finding Opportunities SAM.gov: Official source for contract opportunities, awards, and solicitations Grants.gov: Search and submit applications for federal grants Unison Marketplace: Reverse auctions and full-service online platform SBA SUB-Net: Subcontracting opportunities on federal prime contracts SBA Dynamic Small Business Search: Search businesses by various criteria Research & Data USAspending.gov: Official open data source of federal spending Major IT Investment Portfolio Business Cases: Federal IT Dashboard for understanding IT portfolios GSA Schedules Library (eLibrary): Latest GSA contract award information CALC – Labor Rates: GSA Pricing Central for contract and task order pricing Government Accountability Office: Reports, studies, and bid protest decisions Small Business Resources Office of Small Business Programs: Championing American small businesses to support mission critical functions within the Department of State. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR): Funding for startups and small businesses in R&D and technology innovation Construction & International Diplomatic Construction Projects Office of Global Partnerships U.S. Embassies & Consulates Worldwide Additional Resources State Department Telephone Directory Build America, Buy America Waivers Business Forecast Business Forecast The Department of State’s Business Forecast is a planning tool that provides advance notice of anticipated contract opportunities. It helps businesses prepare for upcoming procurements by offering visibility into the Department’s acquisition pipeline, including estimated contract values, timelines, and requirements. This forecast is updated regularly to reflect the Department’s evolving needs. Plan ahead with our procurement forecasting tools: Business Forecast: Department-wide procurement forecast SAM.gov Current contract opportunities Grants.gov Assistance funding opportunities Contact Us Contact Us Industry Liaison Team Bureau of Global Acquisitions (GA)2201 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20520Email: IndustryLiaison@state.gov Have questions? Our Industry Liaison team is here to help you navigate the contracting process and understand potential opportunities. STAY CONNECTED: LinkedIn LINKEDIN
