Federal Acquisitions Regulations and Standards
General Information
The Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), are set of regulations issued by the federal government that specify how Executive Branch agencies are to buy goods and services from commercial vendors. The FAR provides rules federal agencies must follow when buying goods and services. In addition, the FAR provides requirements that contractors must follow when selling to the government.
If you are interested in bidding on Department of Defense (DoD) contracts, consult the Defense Acquisitions Guidebook. DoD follows the FAR, but includes some additional requirements. The Guidebook provides businesses in the defense industry with an interactive, on-line reference to policy and discretionary best practices in defense contracting.
For Small Businesses
- Small Business Size Standards
Provides information on how a small business is defined for the purposes of federal contracting and eligibility for U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) programs, such as small business loans. - Sample Small Business Subcontracting Plan (PDF)
Included on this website is a Sample Small Business Subcontracting Plan to satisfy the applicable requirements of Public Law 95-507 as implemented by FAR Clause 52.219-9. Also available for downloading in Microsoft Word format. - Defense Contracting Regulations : A Guide for Small Business, Small and Disadvantaged Business, and Women-Owned Business
Introduction to the basics of defense contracting for small businesses.
Next Step: Requirements and Resources for Federal Contractors