The Role of Subcontracting in Expanding Government Contract Opportunities

For small businesses, stepping into the world of federal contracting can feel overwhelming. The paperwork, the acronyms, the competitive proposals—it’s a lot.

But here’s something most business owners don’t realize: you don’t have to go it alone. Subcontracting offers a practical, powerful entry point into the federal marketplace—especially for new and growing businesses.

Subcontracting isn’t just an alternative—it’s a strategic pathway to growth.

Why Subcontracting Is More Important Than Ever

With policies like “Buy American, Hire American” gaining traction, and with federal agencies increasing their small business participation goals, there’s never been a better time to be a subcontractor.

Prime contractors are looking for capable, certified small businesses to help them fulfill contract obligations. This means more opportunities for those who are ready to show up and add value.

Top Benefits of Subcontracting in Federal Contracting

• ✔️ Gain Experience: Subcontracting helps you build a past performance record without managing an entire contract alone.
  
  
• ✔️ Lower Administrative Burden: The prime contractor handles reporting and compliance.
  
  
• ✔️ Get Paid to Learn: Earn revenue while learning how the federal process works from the inside.
  
  
• ✔️ Form Strategic Partnerships: Build relationships with primes and agencies that can lead to future work.
  
  
• ✔️ Access to Larger Projects: Work on significant contracts without needing the capacity to bid as a prime.
  

How to Get Started as a Subcontractor

Follow this 5-step roadmap to begin your subcontracting journey:

1. 1. Register Your Business on SAM.gov: Visit SAM.gov to register and obtain your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI).
   


2. 2. Build Your Profile in DSBS: Complete your business profile in the Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) database. Primes and government buyers use this to find small business vendors.
   
   
3. 3. Get Certified: Apply for certifications like 8(a), WOSB, HUBZone, and SDVOSB at certify.sba.gov. These increase your subcontracting appeal.
   
   
4. 4. Research Prime Contractors: Use USAspending.gov and FPDS.gov to find out who’s winning contracts in your industry and could need subs.
   
   
5. 5. Create a Capability Statement: This is your business résumé. Include your NAICS codes, certifications, core competencies, differentiators, and contact info.
   

Certifications That Give You a Competitive Edge

• 🟢 8(a) Business Development Program
  
  
• 🟢 Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
  
  
• 🟢 Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
  
  
• 🟢 HUBZone Certified Business
  

These certifications help prime contractors meet federal set-aside requirements and boost your visibility in databases like DSBS.

Why Subcontracting Fits GovPointe’s Mission

At GovPointe, we believe that subcontracting is more than just a stepping stone—it’s a smart business strategy. Many of our clients are small businesses trying to navigate the complex world of federal contracting.

We simplify that journey by helping you:

• ✔️ Register and optimize your profile on SAM.gov
  
  
• ✔️ Craft a compelling DSBS profile that gets attention
  
  
• ✔️ Understand which certifications will benefit your business most
  
  
• ✔️ Identify subcontracting opportunities through real-time data
  
  
• ✔️ Build relationships with the right primes and agencies
  

The Smartest Way to Break Into Federal Contracting

You don’t have to land a massive contract on your first try. You just have to take the right first step.

Subcontracting is the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be.

📞 Let’s Talk About Your Growth Strategy

Need help identifying subcontracting opportunities or becoming a certified federal vendor?

📧 Email us at [email protected]
📞 Or call (775) 502-1002

GovPointe – Where Small Businesses Win Big.