USFCR Blog (9)

Federal Contracting Events You Can’t Afford to Miss in 2025

Feb 10, 2025 1:10:33 PM / by USFCR posted in News

Build Relationships, Win More Contracts

Winning federal contracts takes more than just paperwork. You need to get in the room with the people who influence awards. Contracting officers, program managers, and primes want to work with vendors they trust. The fastest way to build that trust is by showing up—at the right events.

When you attend federal contracting conferences, you get to:

Talk directly with decision-makers at agencies who are actively sourcing vendors
Learn what’s coming down the pipeline before it hits SAM
Build relationships with primes looking for qualified subcontractors

If you’re serious about winning contracts in 2025, these events aren’t optional. They’re strategic. You walk away with market intelligence, introductions, and a sharper edge over your competition.

2025 Federal Contracting Events You Shouldn't Miss

Below are a few of the most relevant and high-impact events still coming up this year. We’ve chosen these based on search trends, industry relevance, and government buyer attendance.

✔ Government Procurement Conference – April 16, Washington, DC
Best for: Small businesses, HUBZone firms, SDVOSBs, and WOSBs
Why attend? This is one of the largest and most active small business contracting events in the country. You’ll find buyers from dozens of federal agencies, direct matchmaking, and panels on procurement strategy.

✔ RSA Conference – April 28 to May 1, San Francisco, CA
Best for: Cybersecurity, cloud, software, and IT vendors
Why attend? Agencies like DHS, DoD, and GSA are increasing investments in cyber resilience. If your business touches tech or data protection, this is where you learn what they’ll buy and who’s buying.

✔ Clean Power Expo – May 19 to 22, Phoenix, AZ
Best for: Energy, engineering, and environmental contractors
Why attend? Billions in federal funding are flowing into renewable energy. This is where you meet project managers and primes building the future grid.

✔ TechConnect World – June 9 to 10, Austin, TX
Best for: R&D firms, innovators, and SBIR/STTR applicants
Why attend? DOD, DOE, DHS, and NASA attend specifically to find new partners. If you’re developing anything cutting edge, this is where you get noticed.

✔ World Congress 2025 – July 13 to 16, Grapevine, TX
Best for: Acquisition professionals, BD leaders, and compliance teams
Why attend? It’s the largest training event for federal procurement. Agencies and industry come together to shape how contracting is evolving. If you sell into procurement offices, you should be there.

✔ American Small Business Contracting Summit – July 22, Washington, DC
Best for: Small businesses ready to scale
Why attend? Connect face-to-face with contracting officers and program leads from federal agencies. These are the people awarding contracts now.

✔ Navy & Marine Corps Procurement Conference – July 29 to 30, Norfolk, VA
Best for: Defense contractors in logistics, facility support, shipbuilding, and IT
Why attend? Meet the buyers and program managers responsible for keeping bases and operations running. A must-attend for anyone in the DoD supply chain.

Plan Now to Win More in 2025

Showing up to an event is one thing. Turning that handshake into a contract is another. If you want to get results, you need a plan.

Research which agencies and primes will be in the room
Prepare a 30-second pitch that speaks to what you solve, not just what you sell
Bring a capability statement that makes it easy for buyers to say yes
Follow up fast and with purpose—relationships fade when you don’t take action

These events give you access. But it’s how you prepare and follow through that wins contracts.

📅 Ready to take the next step? Download the 2025 Federal Contracting Events Calendar to access the full list of high-impact conferences, expos, and matchmakers happening through the end of the year.

This is your moment to meet the right people, ask the right questions, and put your business in the right place at the right time.

USFCR vs. Competitors: Who Offers the Best Federal Contracting Support?

Feb 3, 2025 10:48:46 AM / by USFCR posted in News

Winning federal contracts isn’t just about submitting bids—it’s about knowing how to position your business for success. From SAM registration to bid preparation, the right contracting support makes all the difference. However, not all service providers offer the same level of expertise, resources, or long-term guidance.

Middlemanning in Federal Contracting: The Risks and Realities

Jan 31, 2025 12:43:53 PM / by USFCR posted in News

Navigating Federal Contract Delays Amid RTO Policies

Jan 28, 2025 11:11:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, Federal Spending

Recent reports suggest that some federal agencies, including the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of the Interior (DOI), and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), may be experiencing delays in processing contract modifications and obligations. These slowdowns have raised concerns across the contracting community, particularly for contractors with upcoming renewals or active projects.

Top 5 IT Industry NAICS Codes for 2025 and Their Spending Trends

Jan 28, 2025 9:42:04 AM / by USFCR posted in cybersecurity, NAICS, Tech

Federal IT spending is poised for significant growth in 2025, with billions of dollars allocated to modernizing systems, enhancing cybersecurity, and adopting cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence. If your business operates in the IT sector, focusing on the right NAICS codes can position you for success in the federal marketplace. Learn which codes to prioritize and how federal spending trends are shaping opportunities in this high-demand industry.

Are Set-Asides at Risk Amid DEI Changes?

Jan 27, 2025 2:08:32 PM / by USFCR posted in News, Set-asides

Federal contractors are facing a wave of uncertainty as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies come under scrutiny. Many small business owners are concerned about the potential ripple effects on set-aside programs like SDVOSB, WOSB 8(a), and others. With information circulating, it’s critical to understand the facts and separate policy changes from speculation.

Writing a Winning Capabilities Statement in 2025

Jan 24, 2025 3:40:29 PM / by USFCR posted in Guides

This is your guide to unlocking a wider range of opportunities and increasing your cash flow from federal contracting.

After reading this, you’ll have everything you need to write a winning capabilities statement.

Let’s go.

Where Federal Emergency Funds Go and How Businesses Can Benefit

Jan 24, 2025 2:59:20 PM / by USFCR posted in News, Disaster Relief

When disaster strikes, the federal government steps in with massive funding to aid recovery efforts. But where does that money go, and how can businesses benefit from these opportunities? This article breaks down federal spending priorities, highlights which agencies manage funds, and explains how businesses can position themselves to secure emergency-related contracts.

The Small Business Guide to Mentor-Protégé Programs

Jan 23, 2025 11:14:27 AM / by USFCR posted in Guides, News, Set-asides

Mentor-protégé programs have been instrumental in helping small businesses navigate the federal contracting landscape. They enable smaller firms to partner with larger, more experienced companies, gaining access to resources, expertise, and federal opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

This article explores the benefits of these programs, recent updates, and actionable steps small businesses can take to thrive under changing regulations.

Exploring Sole-Source Contracts: A Shortcut to Federal Success?

Jan 20, 2025 3:35:57 PM / by USFCR posted in Guides

Sole-source contracts offer businesses a unique opportunity to secure federal contracts without the competitive bidding process. These contracts are awarded directly to a single vendor, often because they provide something no other company can. For many businesses, sole-source awards are an effective way to build relationships with federal agencies and establish a strong foothold in the federal marketplace.

What Are Sole-Source Contracts?

Sole-source contracts are issued when competition is not practical or necessary. Federal agencies use them to meet urgent needs, acquire proprietary solutions, or partner with businesses uniquely qualified to fulfill specific requirements.

Common scenarios include:

Urgent disaster response.
Proprietary technology or expertise.
Situations where only one vendor can meet the agency’s needs.

Example: The U.S. Army awarded a sole-source contract to Palantir Technologies for its proprietary battlefield intelligence platform, Palantir Gotham. The platform’s unique algorithms and data integration capabilities made it irreplaceable for real-time battlefield analysis, addressing critical national security needs. This highlights how sole-source contracts can meet specialized demands that no other vendor can fulfill.

Who Qualifies for Sole-Source Contracts?

To qualify for sole-source contracts, businesses typically need to meet specific criteria, which vary depending on the contract’s purpose. Here are the primary ways businesses become eligible:

Small Business Programs: Federal set-asides make up a large portion of sole-source awards. Programs like the 8(a) Business Development Program, HUBZone, Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) are key pathways. Each program has its own requirements and offers opportunities to eligible businesses.
Proprietary Capabilities: If your business provides a one-of-a-kind product or service—such as patented technology or specialized expertise—you may qualify for sole-source opportunities outside of small business programs.
Emergency Response: Federal agencies often turn to sole-source contracting during emergencies when time-sensitive solutions are required.

Benefits of Sole-Source Contracts

Sole-source contracts eliminate the need for competition, giving your business direct access to federal opportunities. Some of the key benefits include:

Fewer competitors: You avoid the lengthy and competitive bidding process.
Relationship-building: Sole-source awards help you establish trust and long-term connections with federal agencies.
Steady opportunities: Winning a sole-source contract can lead to additional contracts, as agencies often prefer to work with trusted vendors.

How to Position Your Business for Sole-Source Success

Getting a sole-source contract is about preparation, certification, and visibility. Follow these steps to position your business:

Complete Your SAM Registration: Federal contracting starts with an active SAM (System for Award Management) registration. Ensure your profile is accurate and lists the right NAICS codes to reflect your offerings. Learn more about our SAM Registration Assistance.
Obtain SBA Certifications: Small business certifications are a key entry point. Programs like 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, and SDVOSB are designed to make sole-source contracts more accessible.
Create a Capability Statement: This essential document highlights your business’s core competencies, past performance, and unique qualifications. It’s a must-have for federal agencies considering your company for a sole-source award.
Network with Agencies: Build relationships with federal buyers and contracting officers. Tools like the Advanced Procurement Portal (APP) help you identify opportunities and connect with the right people.
Respond to Sources Sought Notices: These notices let agencies gauge market interest and identify potential vendors. Responding increases your visibility and positions you as a preferred vendor.
Emphasize Your Value: Showcase what sets your business apart. Whether it’s proprietary technology or specialized expertise, make sure agencies know why your company is uniquely qualified.

Take the First Step Toward Sole-Source Success

Sole-source contracts are an exclusive opportunity to grow your federal contracting presence. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to expand, preparation is key.

Position your business today with the help of USFCR’s SAM Registration Assistance and SBA Certification services. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process so you can stand out in the federal marketplace and win these lucrative contracts.

USFCR Blog