What is a Sources Sought Notice?
Also known as: Sources Sought, RFI (market research)
A sources sought notice is a market-research request the government posts before a solicitation to find capable vendors and shape the upcoming requirement. It is not a request for proposals — there is no award — but responding well can influence the eventual solicitation and signal a potential set-aside.
What a sources sought notice is
A sources sought notice (sometimes called a market-research RFI) is published on SAM.gov by a contracting office that is planning a procurement. Its purpose is to identify businesses — and especially small businesses in specific socio-economic categories — that can perform the work.
Agencies use the responses to decide whether to set the eventual contract aside for small business, which NAICS code and size standard apply, and how to scope the requirement.
Why responding matters
- It is your earliest, lowest-cost chance to shape a requirement before the RFP is written.
- Strong small-business interest can drive a set-aside, narrowing your competition.
- It puts your capabilities and past performance in front of the contracting officer early.
- It signals intent, helping you build teaming relationships before the solicitation drops.
How to respond
Follow the notice's instructions exactly. Typically you submit a short capability statement mapping your relevant past performance, certifications, and NAICS to the described requirement, plus your business size and socio-economic status.
Frequently asked questions
Is a sources sought notice a contract opportunity?
Not directly — it's market research with no award. But it precedes a real solicitation, so it's one of the most valuable early signals for capture planning.
Do I have to respond to a sources sought to bid later?
No, responding is voluntary and isn't required to bid the eventual solicitation. However, responding can influence the requirement and demonstrate capability to the contracting officer.
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