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How to write a proposal to contract myself to government agencies?

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1. Working for a government agency typically means responding to Requests for Proposals for specific projects. Most agencies won't accept proposals that just say "I would like to do _____ for the government agency": you have to apply to work on specific projects. You can usually find RFPs from your local government agencies on their websites or in the newspaper. Make sure to check back as they might change what is required later. Start by reading through the entire RFP, from beginning to end. Then read it again, and if you can, have someone else read through it too. Each of you should take notes on what is required, and compare notes. By the end, you should have a pretty good idea of what the project will be like. Make sure you address every item in the RFP. Don't leave any sections blank--they may disqualify you! Make sure you talk about what makes you the best person/company for the job. What makes you unique? What do you have that your competitors don't? When it comes to pricing, make sure you quote them a price that is low, to be competitive, but that will still allow you to complete the contract paying for supplies, labor, etc. and still make some money. If there are sections of the project you can't complete alone, consider getting another company to form a subcontracting or teaming agreement. Working together, you can both make money. If you have any questions, the bid documents in the RFP should list a contact person at the agency. It's better to call or write them and ask questions to clarify than to lose the contract because you weren't sure. Another great resource for government contract information is your local Procurement Technical Assistance Center, or PTAC. You can find your local PTAC at the PTAC website, www.aptac-us.org. There's plenty of money to be made working for the government, and they are a very reliable customer. Keep in mind that most government contractors lose more contracts than they win, but if you learn from your mistakes every time, you will get the hang of it and win government contracts! Good luck!