Request for Proposal(RFP)
A formal solicitation document inviting contractors to submit proposals that will be evaluated on technical merit, past performance, and price.
Overview
A Request for Proposal (RFP) is the government's formal invitation for contractors to submit proposals for a specific requirement. Unlike sealed bids (IFBs), RFPs use a negotiated procurement process where proposals are evaluated on multiple factors — typically technical approach, past performance, management, and price. The government may conduct discussions with offerors before making a final selection.
Why It Matters in GovCon
RFPs are where most of the competitive action happens in professional services, IT, and complex acquisitions. Winning an RFP requires a well-crafted proposal that tells a compelling story about your technical approach, demonstrates relevant experience, and offers competitive pricing — all while being fully compliant with the solicitation's instructions.
Key Details
- Sections: RFPs typically include Sections A-M covering schedule, supplies/services, descriptions, clauses, representations, instructions, and evaluation criteria.
- Evaluation Factors: Stated in Section M, these define what matters most (and their relative importance) in the government's award decision.
- Discussions: The government may establish a competitive range and hold discussions before requesting final proposal revisions.
- Award: Can be made without discussions if the solicitation states the government intends to do so.
- FAR Part 15: Governs the negotiated procurement process used for RFPs.
How GovCon Data Can Help
GovCon Data surfaces RFP opportunities matched to your NAICS codes and capabilities. The AI proposal generator helps you create compliant, compelling proposals that address evaluation criteria systematically.
Related Terms
- Request for Quotation (RFQ)
- Invitation for Bid (IFB)
- Best Value
- Competitive Range
- Request for Information (RFI)
More Solicitations Terms
A procurement approach where the government selects the offer that provides the greatest overall benefit, considering factors beyond just price.
The group of offerors selected by the government as having a reasonable chance of being awarded the contract, based on initial proposal evaluations.
A solicitation method where the government awards a contract to the lowest-priced responsive, responsible bidder through sealed bidding.
A source selection method where the contract is awarded to the lowest-priced offeror whose proposal meets all technical requirements.
A document that describes required contract outcomes and performance standards rather than prescribing how the work should be done.
A pre-solicitation document where the government seeks industry input on requirements, capabilities, and market conditions before issuing a formal solicitation.
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