How to Build a Compliant and Competitive Federal Pricing Volume

For federal contractors, price is always a factor—sometimes the most important one. Even the best technical proposal can fall short if the cost proposal isn’t compliant, defensible, or aligned with the customer’s expectations. The federal pricing volume plays a critical role in every government evaluation, and getting it right requires more than math. It requires […]
How to Write a Strong Key Personnel Section in Federal Proposals

In federal proposal development, few components carry as much evaluative weight as the key personnel section. This part of your submission tells the government not just who you are proposing to perform the work—but why they are qualified, available, and capable of leading contract execution successfully. It is often one of the first sections reviewers […]
How to Compete for Department of Homeland Security Contracts

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is one of the largest and most diverse buyers in the federal government, offering a wide range of opportunities across mission-critical areas such as cybersecurity, emergency management, border security, transportation safety, and intelligence analysis. For contractors looking to expand in the federal space, Department of Homeland Security contracts represent […]
How to Approach Large RFPs in Federal Contracting

Pursuing federal contracts can be an excellent growth strategy for businesses of all sizes. But when it comes to responding to large RFPs, the stakes—and the complexity—significantly increase. These multi-million or even multi-billion-dollar opportunities are often highly competitive, resource-intensive, and strategically significant. Companies that want to play in this arena need more than a good […]
Volume 78

Explore Volume 78 of Hinz Consulting’s newsletter. Contact Hinz Consulting to learn more information about government.
Effectively Presenting Personnel in Proposals for Federal Contracts

When pursuing federal contracts, a contractor’s ability to clearly demonstrate the qualifications, availability, and relevance of key staff can be the deciding factor between a win and a loss. That’s why personnel in proposals is one of the most scrutinized evaluation areas across government solicitations. Agencies are not just buying services—they’re investing in the people […]
Simplified Acquisition Procedures: A Contractor’s Guide to Faster Federal Awards

Navigating the federal procurement process can be daunting, especially for small businesses. Complex requirements, lengthy timelines, and rigorous documentation can pose major barriers to entry. However, there is a streamlined pathway designed to ease access to government contracts—simplified acquisition procedures. These procedures are tailored for lower-dollar-value purchases and offer a more accessible way for contractors […]
What Contractors Should Know About Cost-Plus Contracts in Federal Acquisition

Federal contracting offers a variety of pricing arrangements, each designed to meet different needs depending on the project’s scope, risk, and complexity. One of the most commonly used contract types in research, development, and technical services is the cost-plus contract. More specifically, understanding how cost-plus contracts in federal acquisition function can help contractors better evaluate […]
A Contractor’s Guide to Government Invoicing

Winning a federal contract is only the beginning. To get paid correctly and on time, contractors must master the often-complex process of government invoicing. Unlike commercial billing, federal invoicing follows strict requirements for formatting, timing, supporting documentation, and system use. A single misstep can delay payment or trigger compliance issues. Understanding how government invoicing works—and […]
Understanding NAICS Codes in Federal Contracting

If you’re pursuing federal contracts, one of the first steps to getting noticed by government buyers is selecting the right classification for your business. That classification is your NAICS code. While it may seem like a formality, understanding how these codes work is vital for identifying the right opportunities, competing for set-aside contracts, and ensuring […]