How to Put Together a Government Bid

Putting together a government bid requires patience and attention to detail.

Government contracting work and contracts for both goods and services is business for both small and large businesses. To secure government contracts, a formal bid must be submitted to the department or agency procuring the business. Following standard procedures is a requirement. Putting together a government bid takes attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the contract requirements and requests.

Things You'll Need

• Request for bid documents
• Contact information of department or agency receiving bids

Instructions

1. Read through the bid request documents carefully. Take notes regarding what the formal bid needs to contain. Pay attention to requests for additional information on your business such as tax returns, financial statements, business plans, customer references or business marketing materials.

2. Attend all bid meetings and pose questions to the government agency or department point of contact to address concerns that you may have. Get explanations for items or requests for information that are unclear to you.

3. Write the government bid following instructions outlined in the bidding documents. Use forms and spreadsheets to list items and pricing if blank forms are provided in the bid packet. If no blank forms are provided, create spreadsheets to list and organize both items and prices.

4. Write the response to the government bid by explaining your business and explaining in detail how you will satisfy the requirements of the bid. Include pricing, personnel information, past performance information, financial and time frame projections and all other information that explains how you will perform the work or provide the goods or services to the government based on what is outlined in the bidding documents.

5. Submit the written response to the bid along with all additional and supplemental documentation requested. Compile all information and have at least one other person read through the response to ensure that everything is explained properly and all needed information is included.

6. Submit the bid by hand delivery, postal mail or email as outlined in the bid. Make sure to have the bid submitted in advance of the due date. Follow up to all requests for additional or supplemental information in a timely manner.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the bid documents thoroughly and carefully before compiling or submitting a bid.

• Keep an additional copy of all bid documents you submit.

• Do not accept a government bid for something that you are not able to provide.

References

• Inc. Magazine: 4 Tips For Bidding On Your First Government Contract
• CNN Money: Land A Government Contract