Offer business products or services to the United States Department of the Air Force. In order to sell to the federal government, it’s a requirement to obtain a federal contract. Gaining a federal contract involves registering your business, identifying product demand and direct marketing to the Air Force.

Tailor programs and services to specifically to provide services for the military personnel or civilians to improve the chance of contracting with the Department of Defense. Air Force buyers actively look to buy from small businesses professionals, but the market is crowded. Bid on Air Force projects and win federal contracts. Consider the following suggestions:

1. Meet requirements described by the US Department of the Defense.

2. Seek assistance from agencies designed to help small businesses succeed in contracting with the Air Force.

3. Use marketing strategies that target Air Force contracts.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Qualify your business to sell to the Department of the Air Force

Companies looking to contract with the federal government must register their business. A DUNS Number from Dun & Bradstreet is required to verify the business and identify its location. Only companies who complete Central Contractor Registration (CCR) meet the requirements for government contracts. To identify products or services North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes are required.

I recommend: Create a profile at Central Contractor Registration and request a DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet to get your small business in the right path for Dept. of Air Force contracts. A printed or CD-ROM version of NAICS is available through the National Technical Institute Service.

Improve the chance to obtain a Department of the Air Force contract with research and education

Winning a contract from the Department of Air Force is compounded by complex federal requirements. Businesses need to know how to register business information, make contacts and find solicitations for business products. Look to procurement specialist and local small business resources to navigate through government contracting.

I recommend: Locate procurement offices and contact information at the US Department of Defense, Department of the Air Force seminars and training classes from Procurement Technical Assistance Centers aid in winning government contracts.

Market locally or towards the entire Department of the Air Force

Speak with local Air Force procurement contracting offices to supply a regional department. An Air Force small business specialist can also provide detailed information to market your business to buyers, such as preparing brochures and providing product demonstrations.

I recommend: Find small business specialists by state or base at USAF Small Business. Search solicitations over $25,000 representing the entire Air Force at FedBizOpps.Gov.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take advantage of special programs offered by the US Department of the Air Force and Small Business Administration. The programs provide mentoring for women- and veteran-owned small businesses to help target business services and win contracts.