The Federal Government is obligated to seek competition to the maximum extent practicable when it comes to contracting opportunities. To accomplish this, the Government uses the World Wide Web to post contracting opportunities.

Contractors can search for business opportunities and sub-contracting opportunities on the web-site Federal Business Opportunities located at www.fbo.gov. Additionally, the Department of Interior also posts business opportunities on FedConnect at the web-site https://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/.

Each time a contractor submits a quote/proposal in response to an opportunity, they must include their ‘Representations and Certifications’. This 15 page document can be completed by the contractor on an annual basis through the web-based certification available at https://orca.bpn.gov/.

In order for the Government to issue an award to a Contractor, the Contractor must be register in a Federal database called the Central Contractor Registration located on the web at www.ccr.gov. The web-side has a toll free number if any assistance is needed. It is beneficial for contractors seeking business with the Government to register in CCR at any time, as this is the database that Government contracting officers will search when seeking sources.

The Federal Government also enters into Assistance Agreements with partners for projects and programs that benefit the public. These financial assistance opportunities are posted on www.Grants.gov. Recipients of financial assistance must also be registered in CCR as well as Automated Standard Application for Payments (ASAP) located at http://www.fms.treas.gov/asap/, which allows the recipient to obtain their funds electronically as needed.