Doing Business with DOI

The U.S Department of the Interior Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) is an advocate for small business dedicated to maximizing contracting opportunities for small, small disadvantaged, 8(a), women-owned, HUB-Zone and service disabled veteran owned small businesses. Small businesses play a significant role in advancing the Department's goals and supporting Interior's contributions to the Nation's economy. When conducting your research, you should focus on the Department's mission as outlined below:

The U.S. Department of the Interior protects and manages the Nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage; provides scientific and other information about those resources; and honors its trust responsibilities or special commitments to American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and affiliated Island Communities.

Marketing Your Capabilities

The best and most productive marketing approach for small businesses is to be proactive and find a suitable niche in selling your product or service to the Federal, state and local governments. Prepare a detailed capability statement for distribution to Federal agencies, and be specific in describing the capabilities of your firm. Be sure to indicate prior experience, successfully completed Government contracts, and references with contact information. As a business seeking contracts with the Federal Government, you must be registered via the System for Award Management (SAM). Also, learn as much as possible about the Federal acquisition system by reviewing information on the Small Business Administration website.

Tips on Getting A Contract

Know your business inside out and articulate effectively what it is you have to offer
Know your advantages as a small business many contracts are set-aside just for you!
Stay connected to www.SAM.gov for contract opportunities, solicitations and notices.
Become throughly familiar with the Federal agencies, their components and their missions
Build positive relationships with government decision makers; attend outreach and networking events