USFCR Blog

USFCR Academy

USFCR Academy is the learning and training resource of US Federal Contractor Registration (USFCR). The Academy educates current and future clients of USFCR on government contracting, federal registrations and certifications, and provides contract bid training so they can qualify and sell to the federal government.

Recent Posts

USFCR Academy: Wage Determinations & The Non-Manufacturer’s Rule

Oct 7, 2020 10:00:00 AM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

Figuring out how to price contracts for services and brokering can seem tricky, especially in the complex realms of construction and non-construction industries. One key to solving this puzzle lies in understanding wage determinations. Let's break it down:

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USFCR Academy: Getting Assistance with Federal Grants

Oct 1, 2020 1:00:00 PM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

The federal budget contains a big chunk dedicated to grants. Whether you're part of a government body, a non-profit organization, or a business, you could get a slice of this pie. All you need is a brilliant idea or solution that benefits our nation, much like what you might have seen on Grants.gov.

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USFCR Academy Live: How to Win Federal Contracts Without Competing

Sep 23, 2020 3:00:00 PM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

Government contracts don't always work on an open competition basis. Sometimes, there's a clear choice for a contract, and it's here that sole-source contracting comes into play.

The Value of Sole-Source Contracts for You

If your business offers a unique product or service or enjoys a small business set-aside status, you could win sole-source contracts—contracts awarded without competition. There are at least seven scenarios where a contract may be sole-sourced, with some specific to small businesses. Understand these, and you'll find new federal market opportunities and be able to make compelling cases to contracting officers or during bid protests.

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Preference to Veteran-Owned Small Businesses on Federal Contracts

Sep 17, 2020 12:00:00 PM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

Updated as of July 2023, this article provides the most recent and relevant insights into the advantages of being a Veteran-Owned Small Business in federal contracting.

Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) enjoy unique advantages in the world of federal contracting. Chief among these is the Veteran's First Verification Program, a pathway that offers these businesses preferential treatment.

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USFCR Academy: Understanding Government Acronyms and Language

Sep 9, 2020 3:17:20 PM / by USFCR Academy posted in Past Webinars

This article was written in 2020; link to the new article here Decoding Contractor and Government Acronyms for Successful Contracting.

Stumped by having to contact your KO at the EOS regarding an IFB through the SBIR program? Don't fret!

Government contracting is rife with acronyms, unique titles, and specialized language. While it may seem overwhelming, mastering this language can help you read and write more efficiently.

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International Contracting with the U.S. Government

Sep 3, 2020 6:00:00 AM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

With the U.S. government's operations spanning across the globe, it's no surprise that opportunities for international contracting are vast and varied. Whether you're a U.S.-based firm eager to spread your wings or a global enterprise eyeing the U.S. federal marketplace, the road to international contracting is rich with potential.

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USFCR Academy: Your Rights to a Contractor Debrief

Aug 26, 2020 6:00:00 AM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

A Contractor debriefing is a unique element of government contracting that offer invaluable insights into why your contract bid was accepted or declined. By understanding and leveraging these debriefs, your business stands a greater chance of winning more contracts and boosting profitability.

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Prepare Your Small Business for Contracts with Department of Defense

Aug 20, 2020 2:52:38 PM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

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Go Solo or Team: Part 2 - Federal Contracting Business Partnerships

Jul 30, 2020 3:48:34 PM / by USFCR Academy

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Go Solo or Team: Part 1 - How to Become a Broker on Federal Contracts

Jul 23, 2020 3:06:18 PM / by USFCR Academy posted in USFCR Academy

This article has been updated with the most recent information as of July 2023

Small businesses have a unique edge in federal spending requirements thanks to their size and socioeconomic status. Daily, the government turns to small businesses to redistribute products instead of large manufacturers.

The reason behind this trend is the small business programs contained in Part 19 of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). It allows individuals to venture into business as sole proprietors, with the role of redistributing products to the government at an acceptable price point. This process is referred to as brokering.

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