Army Bases Basics

How to get information on American army bases

By Lesley Graybeal
Active army bases try to offer a rich variety of consumer goods to military personnel on site. Many serving military and their families utilize the services on base, even if they reside off base. If you are interested in contracting with army bases, get to know some army bases basics, like their locations and contracting policies.

Active army bases are not the only thriving business locations in the military branch, as defunct military bases have also been used as corporate or retail parks after closing. Military bases in the US that have closed may continue to operate under existing contracts or to realign the location with new business contracts.

To master the basics of army bases in the United States, consider the following:

1. Consult a list of army bases in the United States to find a specific base location;

2. Familiarize yourself with U.S. military policies on business contracting;

3. Get to know the business services offered at specific army bases.

 

Find a list of active army bases online

A list of army bases in the USA is available from a number of Internet sources. Locating a base near you is the first step in learning more about doing business with army bases. US army bases typically have individual base websites that are accessible from the full list, and which include basic information for businesses and military customers.
Try: The Army.com base directory includes all active army bases, with separate links to access other branches of the US military. The Military Zone has a single list of all active military bases, which is broken up into military branch categories.

Learn how army bases contract with businesses

US army bases provide a range of services to their military personnel, including retail and entertainment options. If your business is interested in getting involved on base, become familiar with the US government policies regarding contracting with businesses, on both active and inactive army bases.
Try: ACA, the Army Contracting Agency, has links for small businesses and others looking for opportunities to conduct business with the US military or the federal government. The US General Services Administration conducts contracting with the US federal government and also offers small business resources for those looking to contract with army bases.

Investigate the specific services and opportunities available at army bases near you

The most accurate and direct information about conducting business with army bases in the USA is available on the specific base websites. Army base websites often provide information for interested businesses, businesses with existing contracts and customers who utilize business services on base.
Try: The Fort Drum army base business and contracting page includes information about support, purchasing and acquisition of external business contracts. The MICC Center of the Fort Knox army base offers information about active solicitations and existing contracts online, as well as instructions for delivering proposals and bids.

 

  • When army bases close, many consider new options for contracting as a business, retail or research park. Stay on top of army base closings and reassignments if there are military bases in your area.