Brookings: “The federal government purchases around $665 billion in goods and services each year from outside contractors, which is 10% of its $6.5 trillion budget. This includes items such as building and construction, office furniture and supplies, industrial products, professional services, information technology, defense equipment, security systems, transportation, logistical support, travel, meals, and lodging, among other things. Such expenditures represent a huge driver of economic activity in the United States and a vehicle for achieving important national and international priorities…There are a number of rules and regulations governing federal procurement processes. For businesses wishing to sell goods or services to agencies, the General Services Administration has created an integrated site called the System for Award Management (SAM), and businesses need a Unique Entity Identification Number from the Federal Service Desk website located at www.FSD.gov. Registration involves submitting information and documentation on legal status, organizational structure, tax identification, and finances and getting recognized as an official business or nonprofit organization. Once registered, businesses can search for federal contract opportunities through www.SAM.gov, www.SBA.gov, or specific agency websites. Among other things, bids must document the materials, proposed price, sourcing, experience, organizational capacity, and compliance capabilities. Submissions also must comply with the domestic content requirements of the Buy America Act and the Trade Agreements Act…”