- SBA SUBNet — where some primes post specific subcontracting opportunities.
- Agency small business offices and OSDBU outreach events.
- Prime contractor supplier/small-business portals.
Best sources for federal subcontracting opportunities
Federal subcontracting opportunities rarely appear on a single public feed. For small businesses, the best sources are a mix of official tools and being discoverable where primes actually search.
Official and public sources
Be discoverable, not just searching
Most subcontracts are sourced by primes searching for a capability, not posted publicly. The highest-leverage move is to be findable: keep an ACTIVE SAM.gov registration, accurate NAICS, and a clear capability profile. A free SamMatch listing puts you in front of primes filling plan goals.
Frequently asked questions
How do small businesses get found by primes?
Keep your SAM.gov registration ACTIVE, list accurate NAICS codes and certifications, and maintain a discoverable capability profile. Primes search by NAICS and certification, so accuracy is what gets you surfaced.
Related resources
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