What is a GSA Contract and why does my company need one? Technically a GSA Contract is not a requirement to do business with the Federal Government, but it may make a difference in your industry. The GSA Schedule Contract Program is a multiple award schedule that allows for the Federal Government to to pre-negotiate your products and service offering for ease of purchasing. Unlike most contracts, a GSA Contract does not mean that you have sold your offering to the Government; it is more of a license to sell your offering. In short, this contracting vehicle makes the lengthy procurement process easier and more efficient for all parties.
So, how do you know if this contract is a fit for you? We recommend taking a look at the categories within the contract and determining if there is a category that fits your offering. Our team also recommends reviewing the sales within those categories to determine how much of a market there is, GSA has a sales tool to do so. This will give you an idea of if your time and effort to be awarded a GSA Contract will be fruitful.
The process to obtain a GSA Contract can be long and frustrating one, average turnaround time (once your offer is submitted for review) is 6-12 months. The time it takes to put the offer together is dependent on a lot of factors, if you are working with our team our goal is within 45 days. During that 6-12 months for GSA to review there is a good amount of ‘hurry up and wait’, your offer is reviewed on a first in, first out basis. Once your offer is actively being worked, the contracting officer (CO) assigned to your offer will work to complete any clarifications that may be necessary. They will also work with your through the actual negotiations of the contract, which includes all terms & conditions along with pricing.
Don’t have the time or not really sure if this is something you can or want to take on yourself? That is where the Capitol 50 team comes in; working with our team takes 85% of the process off your plate and gives you access to our GSA Contract experts. Our Contract Award Program (CAP) not only completes the GSA paperwork and works with the CO throughout the process, but more importantly guides you through the contract setup. With the potential of 20-year contract it is important that the contract is awarded with correct clauses, discounts, etc.
Take a look at our GSA Schedule information for more information on the process itself and also how we assist you through it. Still not sure if GSA is a right fit for you? Our team can assist with determining the right path for you and your team.
