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.
Federal contracting has undergone significant transformation since we began assisting businesses with registrations in 2010. One of the most impactful changes was the consolidation of earlier systems like the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) and the Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA) into a unified platform now known as SAM (System for Award Management). These changes simplified processes and made federal opportunities more accessible to contractors across industries.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is offering up to $20 million in funding to assist farmers actively working in the Gulf of Mexico watershed. This opportunity is open until January 28, 2025. The Farmer to Farmer 2024 BIL program will allow farmers to conduct projects that improve water quality, habitat, or resilience. Collaboration and outreach with farmers are required, and organization partnerships are encouraged.
Wildfire disaster recovery involves a wide range of services—from clearing debris to rebuilding infrastructure and restoring the environment. Contractors looking to secure federal contracts for these projects need to identify the correct NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) codes to align their services with federal opportunities. This guide explains the most relevant NAICS codes for wildfire recovery and how to use them effectively.
NAICS codes are critical for federal contracting. They categorize businesses based on their industries and services, helping federal agencies match contractors to specific project needs. For wildfire recovery, choosing the right NAICS code is essential to:
Ensure your business is visible for relevant contract opportunities.
Qualify for set-aside contracts tailored to small or disadvantaged businesses.
Streamline the federal contracting process by accurately defining your services.
Here are the most commonly used NAICS codes for wildfire disaster response and recovery:
561730 – Landscaping Services
Clearing trees, brush, and debris from wildfire-affected areas.
562998 – All Other Miscellaneous Waste Management Services
Handling specialized waste management tasks, such as removing hazardous debris.
624230 – Emergency and Other Relief Services
Providing temporary housing, food distribution, and emergency logistics.
621910 – Ambulance Services
Medical transport and emergency response in disaster areas.
238910 – Site Preparation Contractors
Grading, excavation, and preparation for rebuilding efforts.
237310 – Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction
Restoring damaged roads and bridges in wildfire-affected areas.
541330 – Engineering Services
Planning and engineering recovery efforts, such as rebuilding infrastructure and erosion control.
562910 – Remediation Services
Cleaning up hazardous materials and remediating contaminated sites.
113310 – Logging
Salvaging timber and managing forest health post-fire.
115310 – Support Activities for Forestry
Managing reforestation efforts and implementing wildfire prevention measures.
Follow these steps to ensure your business is using the most relevant NAICS codes for wildfire recovery:
Evaluate Your Services: Identify the core services your business provides that align with wildfire recovery needs.
Research Federal Opportunities: Look at active RFPs in wildfire disaster recovery to see which NAICS codes are being used.
Update Your SAM Profile: Ensure your SAM registration includes all applicable NAICS codes. This increases your chances of being matched to the right opportunities.
Highlight in Proposals: Clearly list your NAICS codes in your capability statement and proposals to show alignment with federal requirements.
Many wildfire recovery contracts are awarded through set-asides, which are opportunities reserved for small and disadvantaged businesses. By selecting the correct NAICS codes, you can qualify for:
Small Business Set-Asides: Contracts reserved exclusively for small businesses.
HUBZone Set-Asides: Opportunities for businesses located in historically underutilized business zones.
8(a) Program: Contracts for socially and economically disadvantaged businesses.
Some contractors still reference Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes. While NAICS has largely replaced SIC, understanding how these systems relate can be helpful for businesses working with older clients or transitioning to federal work.
Stay Updated: NAICS codes evolve over time. Regularly review your codes to ensure they reflect your services accurately.
Seek Guidance: If you’re unsure which codes apply to your business, USFCR can help you analyze your services and update your SAM profile.
Be Proactive: Start researching wildfire-related RFPs early to identify trends in NAICS code usage.
Navigating NAICS codes and federal contracting can be overwhelming, but USFCR simplifies the process. Learn more about how USFCR can help you succeed in wildfire recovery through the VIPR Program. From SAM registration to proposal writing, we ensure your business is well-positioned for success in wildfire recovery projects. Contact us today to get started.
California’s 2025 wildfire season has already inflicted wide-ranging devastation, with Los Angeles County experiencing major blazes like the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst. Together, these fires have consumed over 40,000 acres, destroyed thousands of structures, and pushed the estimated damage to $250 billion.
The Federal VIPR Program is now open for the 2025 season, running from January 1, 2025, to March 10, 2025, to help rebuild and bring in skilled professionals. This specialized initiative connects qualified contractors with federal funding opportunities, enabling them to assist in debris removal, infrastructure repairs, and community rehabilitation.
As a federal contractor, staying ahead of the curve is essential for winning bids and securing contracts. One of the best ways to gain a competitive edge is by attending industry expos. Whether focused on disaster relief, construction, defense, or sustainability, expos offer invaluable networking opportunities, insights into industry trends, and a chance to showcase your services. Ready to plan your year? Download our 2025 Federal Contracting Events Calendar to access a complete list of expos, conferences, and summits designed for federal contractors.
Imagine a federal contracting process where manual paperwork is a thing of the past, every transaction is secure and traceable, and payments happen automatically when milestones are met. Thanks to blockchain technology and its growing adoption within government agencies, that future may not be far off.
Federal contracting success is more than submitting expert proposals. It’s about building relationships and showcasing your capabilities to the right people. Social media has emerged as a powerful tool for contractors to network, find teaming opportunities, and market their services effectively. In this blog, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help you make the most of social media to grow your presence in the federal marketplace.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is crucial in helping communities recover from natural disasters and emergencies. As a disaster relief contractor, you can make a significant impact by providing essential goods and services during these challenging times. However, many misconceptions about Relief contracting may deter potential contractors.
This blog post will address common misconceptions, explore opportunities, and provide a step-by-step guide to help you secure your first Relief contract.
Wildfires pose a growing threat across the United States, with more than 8 million acres burned so far this year.1 These disasters not only devastate natural ecosystems but also place thousands of communities at risk, creating an urgent need for proactive planning and mitigation strategies to protect lives and property.
