Manufacturing-related federal contracts are on the rise following the White House’s recent Made in America Agenda announcement. This presidential action outlines new steps to boost domestic production and expand U.S.-based supply chains, creating fresh opportunities for manufacturers across multiple industries.
Many businesses, however, are still unprepared to meet the rising domestic sourcing requirements. After helping thousands of contractors secure manufacturing awards, we have seen companies win multi-million dollar contracts while others lose out due to simple Buy American mistakes. A midwestern manufacturer nearly lost a Department of Defense tooling award earlier this year because their steel supplier’s origin documentation was incomplete. Agencies are increasing domestic content thresholds, and contractors who fail to prepare will miss the wave of opportunities now being created.
The Manufacturing Boom is Real and It Is Federal
The White House’s Made in America Agenda claims record growth in domestic manufacturing jobs and new facilities across multiple industries. This surge is being fueled by federal investment in infrastructure, clean energy, semiconductors, electric vehicle batteries, and pharmaceuticals. These initiatives directly translate into more government contracts under manufacturing NAICS codes like 332, 333, and 334.
Agencies such as the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and Department of Transportation are leading this investment. Each is expected to release more solicitations that favor or require U.S.-made goods. The increase in agency manufacturing activity is not limited to prime contracts. Subcontracting opportunities are also expected to grow as primes seek partners who meet domestic production requirements.
Why Buy American Rules Matter More Than Ever
Buy American Act compliance has become a deciding factor in many awards. Current domestic content thresholds are rising, and in some cases, they already exceed 60 percent. This means the majority of a product’s components must come from U.S. sources.
Many businesses make the mistake of assuming a U.S. address on a supplier invoice means the goods qualify. Without proper certification of origin, that assumption can be costly. We have seen contractors win a bid and then face disqualification during the compliance review because a single component did not meet origin requirements. Understanding the rules and validating supplier documentation before bidding is critical.
Hidden Opportunities in the Manufacturing Push
While large-scale investments in sectors like semiconductors and pharmaceuticals capture the headlines, smaller manufacturers also stand to benefit. Contracts for tooling, precision parts, assembly, packaging, and quality testing are increasing. Agencies and prime contractors often prefer to work with smaller, more agile companies that can quickly meet production demands.
Set-asides for small businesses are also in play, giving qualified companies exclusive access to certain opportunities. In addition, manufacturers who understand subcontracting can secure work from primes who are required to meet small business participation goals.
Tactical Steps for Contractors
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Identify and confirm your manufacturing NAICS codes in SAM
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Ensure all suppliers can provide proper U.S. origin documentation
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Monitor agency forecasts for manufacturing-related solicitations
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Maintain accurate and active SAM registration with domestic sourcing details clearly noted
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Consider forming partnerships with other U.S.-based manufacturers to expand capability and qualify for larger contracts
What’s Next?
After reviewing the Made in America manufacturing wave, you might be wondering how to position your business before these contracts are awarded. You could spend months learning procurement rules and compliance requirements or have us handle it in days while you focus on fulfilling orders. The difference between missing out and winning often comes down to preparation before bids are even released.
FAQ
A: Not necessarily. Thresholds vary by product type and agency, but they are increasing.
Q: Are manufacturing contracts only for large companies?
A: No. Many are set aside for small businesses, and primes often subcontract.
Q: How can I find manufacturing contract forecasts?
A: Check agency procurement forecasts and use tools like the USFCR Resource Spot to see current and upcoming opportunities.
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