FAQs

Find answers to Frequently Asked Questions in the following categories:

About the Oregon Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
Starting Your Business
Financing Your Business
Marketing
Taxes & Regulations
Government Procurement

1	Q. Does the government always award the contract to the low bidder?
	A. No. In many instances the government awards the contract to the company that provides the best value. This does not necessarily mean the company offering the lowest price. Other factors such as technical capability, past performance and quality may also be considered. GCAP can help you interpret a request for bid or proposal so that you understand which evaluation factors will be used in determining who gets the contract.
		05/07/2010
2	Q. Do I need to be certified in order to bid on government contracts?
	A. No. Except for certain �set aside� contracts, the government does not require any type of certification for a company to be eligible to bid on contracts. However, being certified as a woman-owned, minority or otherwise disadvantaged business can level the playing field and provide more opportunities for you to bid. Since federal, state and local government agencies have different certification programs with different eligibility factors and application processes, you should first determine which agencies you want to do business with, and then look into the applicable certification programs. GCAP can help you determine if you are eligible for certification and help you apply.
		05/07/2010
3	Q. Do I need to be on a GSA schedule in order to do business with the government?
	A. No, although it may be beneficial to you in the long run. Think of the General Services Administration (GSA) as a buying activity for other federal government agencies. GSA awards �schedules� or long-term contracts to vendors who provide certain goods and services required by those agencies. Then, when the agencies have a need for a particular product or service, they can buy it from one of the vendors on the schedule for the pre-determined price. A vendor might get lots of business by being on a GSA schedule, but there are no guarantees. GCAP can help you determine if your company is a good candidate to apply for a GSA schedule as well as help you through the application process.
		05/07/2010
4	Q. How can I get my business certified as minority or women owned?
	A. Federal, state and local government agencies as well as large private sector corporations have different eligibility requirements and application processes for certifying your business. The common denominator is that the business MUST be at lease 51% owned and controlled by one or more individuals who are eligible for certification. Consult your target customer to determine which certification(s) they accept. Then, learn the requirements and rules to determine if you are eligible to apply.
		05/07/2010