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How to respond to a sources sought notice

A sources sought notice is the government asking "who out there can do this?" before it writes the solicitation. Answering takes an hour and is one of the best things a small business can do: your answer can be the reason the job is set aside for small businesses.

Why it matters

Under the "rule of two" in the Federal Acquisition Regulation, a contracting officer must set a contract aside for small businesses when they expect at least two responsible small businesses to offer fair prices. Sources sought responses are their evidence. If only large companies answer, the job is likely to be open to everyone. If several capable small businesses answer, it is likely to be set aside. Read more in small business set-asides explained.

What to send

  • Exactly what the notice asks for, in the order it asks. Many notices list specific questions; answer each one with its number.
  • Your capability statement, adapted to this requirement.
  • Your size status for the NAICS code in the notice and any certification (8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB).
  • Relevant past performance: similar scope, size and complexity.
  • If asked: whether you would bid as a prime, a subcontractor or in a joint venture, and comments on the draft requirement.

How to write it

  • Keep it short: two to five pages unless the notice says otherwise.
  • Be concrete: crews, equipment, licenses, bonding capacity, how you would handle the work.
  • If something in the requirement would prevent small businesses from bidding (a bundled scope, an unrealistic schedule), say so politely and suggest an alternative. This is the moment the government listens.
  • Send it before the deadline, to the email in the notice, with the notice number in the subject line.

What happens next

There is no award from a sources sought notice and usually no reply. Watch for the presolicitation or solicitation with the same title or number, often weeks or months later. BidFox includes sources sought notices in your daily alert so you can answer them early; see a sample.

Last reviewed October 20, 2026. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules and dollar thresholds change, so check the solicitation and the official sources linked above.