USFCR Blog

In-Kind Matches & Cost Sharing: What You Need to Know for Federal Grants

Apr 18, 2025 8:00:00 AM / by USFCR Grants posted in News, Hot Grants

If you're applying for a federal grant, you may come across a requirement to share in the cost of your project. This is called matching or cost sharing. In short, it means that part of the total cost needs to be covered by non-federal sources.

Matching amounts are usually shown as a percentage of the total project cost. These percentages, along with rules about which funds can be used, vary depending on the program. Always review the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) or other official guidance for your specific grant.

How Small Businesses Can Win and Manage Commercial Item Contracts

Apr 17, 2025 8:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, Federal Spending

Government agencies often purchase goods and services from the same marketplace as private-sector businesses. Commercial item contracts simplify the process, allowing small businesses to sell their standard products to federal buyers with minimal modifications.

Don’t Let April Slip Away: Get Set for Summer Contracts

Apr 15, 2025 8:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, Federal Spending

Why April Matters in Federal Contracting

Federal agencies don't wait for June to start spending. By the time summer hits, most buyers already have their budgets planned and vendors shortlisted. April is when the planning happens. It’s when buyers clear out Q1 backlogs, prepare their summer acquisition schedules, and move funds to priority projects.

Understanding Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee Contracts

Apr 14, 2025 9:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in News, cmmc

A Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) contract reimburses a contractor for allowable costs incurred during a project and provides a fixed fee for profit. Unlike Firm-Fixed-Price contracts, where contractors assume the risk of cost overruns, CPFF contracts protect businesses from financial loss while still ensuring a reasonable return.

Elevate 2025: One Day to Refocus, Regroup, and Grow

Apr 11, 2025 10:04:40 AM / by USFCR posted in News

June 5, 2025 | Clearwater, FL | Hosted by USFCR

Why this event matters:
Federal and commercial business growth is rarely a straight path. Most small businesses hit a point where they need better processes, smarter strategies, or just the right connection to move forward. That’s where Elevate 2025 comes in.

This one-day growth summit is designed for business owners, executives, and federal contractors who are ready to take focused action. You’ll get real strategies from professionals who’ve done the work, and you’ll leave with practical tools you can actually use.

The Real Reason Your Bids Are Missing the Mark: No Site Visit

Mar 27, 2025 8:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in USFCR Academy, News

Understanding the Importance of Site Visits

Federal contracting can be highly competitive, and one of the most overlooked strategies for success is attending site visits. A site visit is your opportunity to walk the grounds, meet the project manager, and see firsthand what the job requires. Skipping it might save time in the short term, but it could cost you the contract in the long run.

Think of it this way: would you build a house without ever seeing the lot? Probably not. The same principle applies to federal contracts. A thorough site visit gives you insights that just aren’t possible through documents and specifications alone.

Executive Order 14240: What It Means for Veteran-Owned Federal Contractors

Mar 25, 2025 2:28:02 PM / by USFCR posted in Veteran Owned Small Business (VETBIZ), News, Set-asides

The federal contracting world is about to undergo a significant change, and veteran-owned businesses need to be ready. Signed on March 20, 2025, Executive Order 14240 is set to consolidate federal procurement under the General Services Administration (GSA). The goal is to eliminate waste, reduce redundancy, and save taxpayer dollars by centralizing common goods and services procurement within one agency—GSA

How to Win Federal Infrastructure and Construction Contracts

Mar 25, 2025 8:00:00 AM / by USFCR posted in Guides, News, Industry-Specific Contracting

The U.S. government consistently funds large-scale infrastructure and construction projects, providing billions in contract opportunities for businesses of all sizes. While some agencies face budget adjustments, federal construction remains a priority, especially with projects tied to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and sustainability initiatives.

Federal contracts present an opportunity for stable, long-term work for small and mid-sized contractors. However, understanding the contracting process, positioning your business effectively, and identifying the right opportunities are key to success.

Understanding Cost-Reimbursement Contracts in Federal Procurement

Mar 21, 2025 9:53:44 AM / by USFCR posted in USFCR Academy, News, Federal Spending

Imagine taking on a government contract without the risk of losing money on unexpected costs. Cost-reimbursement contracts make this possible by covering your expenses—plus a profit—while you focus on delivering results.

For small businesses, these contracts offer a safety net for unpredictable projects. But to take advantage of them, you need to understand the rules, the risks, and the right strategies to maximize profitability.

Tapping into New Markets: Federal Contracting Opportunities in Local Preparedness Programs

Mar 21, 2025 9:50:40 AM / by USFCR posted in News, Federal Spending

The federal government is shifting its focus to state and local preparedness, creating new opportunities for businesses in federal contracting. With an emphasis on risk-informed decision-making and empowering local entities, this policy shift opens doors for contractors who provide infrastructure solutions, emergency management support, cybersecurity services, and public health preparedness resources.