How to Get on the GSA Schedule as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)

What Is the GSA Schedule?​

The GSA Schedule, also known as the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) or Multiple Award Schedule (MAS), is a government-wide contract managed by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). It allows government agencies to purchase goods and services from pre-approved vendors at negotiated prices. Being on the GSA Schedule positions your business as a trusted, streamlined vendor for federal buyers.

Why Is the GSA Schedule Important for SDVOSBs?​

If you are a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), getting on the GSA Schedule can:

• Make your business more visible to federal buyers
• Open doors to sole-source and set-aside opportunities
• Establish long-term revenue through government contracts
• Streamline the acquisition process for agencies

For SDVOSBs, being on the GSA Schedule also enhances credibility and increases your chances of winning contracts by leveraging your veteran-owned status.

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Step-by-Step Process for Getting on the GSA Schedule as an SDVOSB​

Step 1: Meet the Prerequisites​

Before applying, ensure your business meets the following requirements:

• Be a verified SDVOSB: Certified through SBA's Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) portal
• Be registered in SAM.gov (System for Award Management)
• Have a valid DUNS Number or UEI (Unique Entity Identifier)
• Have a clear NAICS code matching the products/services you offer
• Maintain accurate financial statements and tax returns for at least 2 years
• Have past performance references or previous government/commercial contracts

Resources:

• https://veterans.certify.sba.gov
• https://sam.gov

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Step 2: Research the Right GSA Schedule (SINs)​

Not every business fits every schedule. Research and identify the best Special Item Numbers (SINs) that align with your offerings.

Where to look:

• GSA eLibrary

Tips:

• Review competitors to see what SINs they are listed under
• Choose SINs that match your commercial offerings
• Download and review the applicable Solicitation Document and ReadMe file for your SIN category

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Step 3: Create a Digital Certificate and Register in GSA Systems​

You need access to GSA systems to submit and manage your application.

1. Obtain a Digital Certificate (for legacy systems access, now being phased out)
2. Create an account in:
   
   • FAS ID (for GSA systems access)
   • GSA eOffer/eMod portal – this is where you will submit your application: https://eoffer.gsa.gov

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Step 4: Prepare the GSA Offer Package​

This is the most time-intensive step and requires careful attention to detail. It includes:

A.​

• SF1449 form (signature page)
• Pathways to Success training certificate
• Readiness Assessment (if applicable)
• Company financials (last 2 years)
• Corporate Experience Narrative

B.​

• Past Performance narratives (customer references)
• Quality control processes
• Organizational structure and team qualifications

C.​

• Commercial Price List
• Basis of Award customer
• Proposed GSA Pricing with discounts
• Price narrative explaining how prices were developed
• Support documents like invoices or previous contracts

Tip: Stay consistent. GSA reviewers cross-check documents for discrepancies.

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Step 5: Submit Offer Through eOffer System​

Once your documents are compiled:

1. Log in to https://eoffer.gsa.gov
2. Select your Schedule/SIN
3. Upload required files
4. Sign electronically

After submission:

• You will receive a confirmation email
• An assigned GSA Contracting Officer (CO) will review your offer
• Be prepared to answer clarifying questions or make revisions

Timeline: 4–12 months depending on schedule complexity and backlog

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Step 6: Respond to Clarifications and Negotiate Terms​

The GSA CO may:

• Request revised pricing
• Ask for more documentation or clarification
• Schedule a phone interview

Be responsive, polite, and organized. Negotiations are common and should be seen as part of the process, not a sign of rejection.

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Step 7: Award and Post-Award Requirements​

Once approved, you’ll receive a GSA Contract Number. Here’s what happens next:

Post-Award Actions:​

• Upload your contract to GSA Advantage (https://www.gsaadvantage.gov)
• Set up your contractor profile on eBuy
• Begin marketing your contract to agencies

Compliance & Maintenance:​

• Report sales quarterly through Sales Reporting Portal
• Pay the Industrial Funding Fee (IFF)
• Ensure pricing stays current and accurate
• Modify your contract as needed (product additions, pricing updates, etc.)
• Prepare for regular GSA audits

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Additional Tips for SDVOSBs:​

• Register in SBA’s DSBS database with detailed capability statements
• Attend GSA webinars and training events
• Use your SDVOSB certification as a competitive differentiator in your marketing
• Partner with other GSA contractors for joint ventures or teaming agreements

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Conclusion​

Getting on the GSA Schedule as an SDVOSB is a multi-step process, but the long-term benefits can be substantial. By positioning your business as a trusted vendor, you open the door to federal contracting opportunities that can drive sustainable growth for years to come. Follow each step thoroughly, stay organized, and don't hesitate to seek help from a procurement advisor or PTAC if needed.

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I'm interested in getting set up on GSA but I don't know how to go about it. We are a manufacturer and supplier of parts for the DoD right now but it's all through P-Card and PO's. We do some through the DLA as well but a lot of our customers would have an easier time if they could get to us through GSA. I just need to figure out how to do it.