The Department of Veterans Affairs purchases billions of dollars in goods and services each year.  It is the policy of the federal government, under the Small Business Act, that all small businesses have the maximum practicable opportunity to participate in providing goods and services to the government. To ensure that small businesses get this opportunity, the Small Business Administration negotiates annual procurement preference goals with each federal agency including VA and reviews each agency's results.  The current established goals are listed below.

Steps to doing Business with VISN 9 & Our Facilities

1. Register with Central Contractor Registration (CCR). Note-the form you completed at this website must include the North American Industrial Classification Code and the Federal Stock Classification or groups. 
2. Visit www.fedbizopps.gov to search for opportunities and sign up for bids.
3. Work with your Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) to receive bid matches that are more closely tailored to your business niche.
4. Develop an easy to navigate company website that includes your products or services, pricing, and point of contact information.
5. If your business qualifies for one of the socioeconomic programs, ensure you get certified, if required.

What do we buy?

Although there are certain priority sources identified by federal regulations, each VA Medical Center purchases a considerable amount of its requirements from both local and nationwide sources.  Examples of items purchased are:

• Pharmaceuticals, medical, and surgical supplies
• Perishable subsistence - meat, dairy, fruit, vegetables
• Equipment, supplies, and materials for facility operation - light bulbs to cleaning supplies
• Maintenance and repair of medical and scientific equipment - cleaning, housekeeping, janitorial
• Building construction, maintenance, and repair - painting, plumbing, electrical, flooring, HVAC
• Prosthetic and orthopedic aids
• Medical gases

Additional Guidance

For additional guidance on doing business with the Department of Veterans Affairs, as well as other government agencies, contact the PTAC in your area.  PTACs are non-profit, government funded centers designed to help you understand the process.  To find a center in your area visit the PTAC website.

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