Sources Sought Notice

A pre-solicitation market research tool agencies use to identify qualified vendors and determine set-aside eligibility before issuing a formal RFP.

A Sources Sought notice is a pre-solicitation announcement posted on SAM.gov for market research purposes. It is not a solicitation and does not commit the agency to issue an RFP or award a contract. Responding to one is among the highest-leverage activities a contractor can take before an RFP is released.

What Agencies Are Trying to Learn

When an agency posts a Sources Sought, it typically wants to know whether adequate small business competition exists to support a set-aside, what the market can deliver technically, and what a reasonable timeline and scope looks like. Your response directly influences the structure of the eventual RFP.

What to Include in Your Response

A strong response includes a brief company overview with NAICS code and size classification, two or three examples of similar completed contracts with dollar values and contract numbers, a clear statement of your technical approach or relevant capabilities, and any questions about scope that would affect your decision to bid. Keep responses between five and ten pages unless the notice specifies otherwise.

Why Consistent Engagement Pays Off

Companies that respond to Sources Sought notices consistently win at higher rates on the subsequent competitive RFP. Even if you are the only respondent, the agency is not obligated to sole source to you. Your response establishes presence, can shape evaluation criteria, and signals that you are a prepared and serious vendor.

Sources Sought vs. RFI

A Sources Sought is more specific than a Request for Information. It typically seeks to identify qualified sources for a defined requirement, often to determine whether a small business set-aside is appropriate. An RFI tends to be broader market research used earlier in the acquisition planning cycle. Responding well to both positions your company for the competition ahead.