GSA Contract connects government buyers with pre-approved vendors offering millions of products and services. The program’s wide scope, pre-negotiated terms and streamlined procurement process make it an attractive option for companies looking to break into the federal marketplace.

Depending on the Large Category, it can take anywhere from a few months to a year from submitting a proposal and being awarded a contract. The amount of time to complete the process depends on a company’s understanding of the requirements, the resources available and accessibility to necessary documentation.

The overall length of the process also depends on the scope of a company’s offer. In general, the more extensive a proposal is and the more complex the terms and conditions, the longer the review process will be.

What Is a GSA Contract and Why Does Your Business Need One

After a successful review, businesses must then submit and upload the required documentation to ensure they are ready for orders. This includes System for Award Management (SAM) registration, administrative information about the company, financial records, past performance references and customer reviews/ratings. It’s important that all of this is accurate and complete to avoid any delays.

Once a company is awarded a GSA Schedule, they must continue to be diligent about managing their contract and reporting sales. They must submit quarterly sales reports through the Sales Reporting Portal, as well as remit the Industrial Funding Fee (IFF) to GSA for each sale.

In addition, a company must be prepared for the long-term commitment that comes with a GSA contract. GSA is a demanding customer that requires frequent contact and detailed support to meet its needs. Companies that are willing to make a dedicated effort to succeed in the government marketplace will reap many benefits, including a stable revenue stream.