Doing Business with the Department of Health & Human Services
This guide outlines the necessary steps for businesses looking to engage with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). To compete for contracts with HHS, it’s important to complete the following key steps.
Step 1: Register with the System for Award Management (SAM)
Before your business can compete for contracts with HHS, you must register with the System for Award Management (SAM). Registration is free, and you will need to obtain a Unique Entity ID (UEI).
Register at:
SAM.gov
Step 2: Identify Your Company’s NAICS Codes
Your North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes help determine whether your business qualifies as a small business based on specific industry standards.
Use the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) table of small business size standards to determine your business size.
SBA Table Link
Download PDF:
Electronic Code of Federal Regulations
Step 3: Learn About HHS and the Goods & Services It Procures
HHS comprises 12 operating divisions, including nine agencies within the U.S. Public Health Service and three human service agencies. Each division procures its own goods and services.
Key Resource:
Review HHS Spending Trends to understand their most common procurements and frequently used NAICS codes.
Step 4: Identify Contracting Opportunities
You can find contracting opportunities with HHS through various channels:
- SAM.gov Contract Opportunities Database
- Federal Procurement Data System
- HHS Forecast Opportunities Database (ideal for small businesses to explore future procurement opportunities)
- Attend Vendor Engagement Sessions and other small business events.
Step 5: Develop a Capabilities Statement
A capabilities statement is your business’s resume—a concise, one-page overview of your company’s competencies. This document highlights your core capabilities and key differentiators that set you apart from competitors.
Resources:
How to Write a Capabilities Statement
Step 5: Develop a Capabilities Statement
A capabilities statement is your business’s resume—a concise, one-page overview of your company’s competencies. This document highlights your core capabilities and key differentiators that set you apart from competitors.
Resources:
How to Write a Capabilities Statement
Step 6: Register with the HHS Small Business Customer Experience (SBCX) System
The SBCX system connects capable small businesses with HHS procurement decision-makers.
Actions:
- Register your business with the SBCX system. HHS procurement decisionmakers use this system to identify capable small businesses for acquisition opportunities.
- Get started by making sure your company is in the OSDBU Small Business Directory. Register here: SBCX Registration
- Consult the SBCX Getting Started Guide for help registering your small business in the SBCX Directory.
Step 7: Engage with HHS Small Business Specialists (SBS)
Each HHS division has a dedicated Small Business Specialist who can guide you in navigating contracting opportunities.
Understanding How HHS Does Business
HHS fosters a business environment where small businesses are encouraged to raise questions, concerns, or complaints without fear of retaliation. HHS is committed to providing excellent customer service by responding to small entity concerns professionally.
- Vendor Communication Plan: Learn how HHS shares information with industry partners.
- Contract Administrative Tools: Access a comprehensive resource site for managing HHS contracts.
- HHS Forecast Opportunities: Stay informed about upcoming procurement opportunities.
Support for Small Businesses
HHS offers a wide range of resources, events, and programs designed to support small businesses in pursuing contracts.
Explore:
HHS Small Business Support
Conclusion
By following these steps and leveraging available resources, your business can effectively compete for contract opportunities with the Department of Health & Human Services. For ongoing support and information, regularly check for updates on procurement opportunities and engage with HHS specialists and programs.