If you’ve been following the CEO in the Making Series, you already know that registering your business and getting certified are the first steps toward securing federal contracts. But now, it’s time to find real opportunities and start winning bids.

SAM.gov is the official U.S. government site where federal agencies post contract opportunities, from small subcontracting jobs to multi-million-dollar prime contracts. However, navigating the platform can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.

This guide breaks it down so you can efficiently search for, filter, and apply for contracts that match your business capabilities.

Why Use SAM.gov to Find Contracts?

SAM.gov is the primary platform for government contracting, and understanding how to use it effectively can give you an edge over competitors. Here’s why it’s essential:

• Access to Thousands of Opportunities – Contracts are updated daily across all industries.
• Direct Access to Government Buyers – Find and connect with federal agencies seeking your services.
• Subcontracting Opportunities – Team up with prime contractors looking for small business partners.
• Search and Filter for Best Matches – Narrow down opportunities based on location, contract size, and industry.
• Pre-RFP and Sources Sought Opportunities – Identify contracts before they are officially posted, giving you an advantage.

Step 1: Create or Log Into Your SAM.gov Account

Before searching for opportunities, you need an active SAM.gov account.
If you haven’t already, visit SAM.gov and sign in using your Login.gov credentials.
Ensure your entity registration is active and your business profile is up to date.

Action Step: If your SAM.gov registration is expired, renew it before applying for contracts.
(If you haven’t set up your SAM.gov account yet, follow our step-by-step guide here to get started quickly and correctly.)

Step 2: Navigate to Contract Opportunities

Once logged in, go to the “Contract Opportunities” section. This is where you’ll find all publicly posted government contracts.

Here’s how to get there:

On the homepage, click “Search” in the top menu.
Select “Contract Opportunities” from the dropdown.

You’ll now see a search bar and various filters to refine your search.

Action Step: Bookmark the Contract Opportunities page for quick access.

Step 3: Use Filters to Find the Right Contracts

To narrow down relevant opportunities, use the advanced search filters:

Keywords – Search by industry-specific terms (e.g., “construction,” “engineering,” “IT services”).
NAICS Codes – Filter contracts based on your industry classification.
Location – Focus on contracts within your preferred geographic area.
Set-Aside Status – Look for contracts designated for 8(a), WOSB, HUBZone, or SDVOSB businesses.
Response Due Date – Find opportunities that give you enough time to prepare a strong bid.
Notice Type – Search for Pre-RFP Notices and Sources Sought to position your business before a solicitation is released.

Action Step: Save your most commonly used filters to streamline future searches.

Step 4: Understanding Pre-RFP and Sources Sought Opportunities

Many federal agencies release Pre-RFP Notices and Sources Sought Notices before officially posting a contract. These early-stage postings can help your business:

✔ Understand Upcoming Contracts – Gain insight into federal buying needs before a contract is finalized.
✔ Position Your Business as a Strong Candidate – Engage with contracting officers early and express interest in the opportunity.
✔ Help Shape the Solicitation – Agencies may adjust their requirements based on industry responses.
✔ Reduce Competition – By responding to Sources Sought Notices, you can help agencies identify whether a contract should be set aside for small businesses.

To find these opportunities:

In SAM.gov’s Contract Opportunities search, select “Notice Type” as Sources Sought or Presolicitation.

Review the requirements and submit a capability statement if your business is a good fit.
Follow up with the contracting officer to stay informed about the upcoming solicitation.

Action Step: Make responding to Sources Sought Notices a regular part of your government contracting strategy.

Step 5: Review Contract Details and Requirements

Once you find a potential contract, click on the listing to see:

✔ Scope of Work – Detailed description of project requirements.
✔ Contract Value – Estimated budget range.
✔ Deadline for Submission – Ensure you have enough time to respond.
✔ Contracting Officer Contact Info – Reach out with questions if necessary.
✔ Set-Aside Status – Confirm if the contract is limited to small business categories.
✔ Place of Performance – The specific location where work will be performed.
✔ Mandatory Requirements – Certifications, experience levels, security clearances, or bonding capacity needed to qualify.

Action Step: Create a checklist of contract requirements before preparing your bid.

​Step 6: Find Subcontracting Opportunities

If you’re new to government contracting, subcontracting is a great way to gain experience. Instead of bidding on prime contracts, you can partner with larger businesses that are required to allocate part of their work to small businesses.

To find subcontracting opportunities:

Use the “Advanced Search” option and select “Subcontracting Opportunities.”
Check SubNet, the SBA’s database of subcontracting opportunities: SubNet.
Network with prime contractors who have won large federal contracts and need small business partners.

​Action Step: Reach out to prime contractors and introduce your business as a potential subcontractor.

Step 7: Track & Organize Your Opportunities