Do you have an understanding of the government’s needs, and do you have the capability to fulfill them through your innovative idea? If yes, then all you need to do is present your idea to the government using an unsolicited proposal (UP).
An unsolicited proposal is a written application for a new or innovative idea submitted to a federal agency on the initiative of the offeror to obtain a contract with the government, and that is not in response to a Request for Proposals (RFPs), Broad Agency Announcement, Program Research, and Development Announcement, or any other Government-initiated solicitation or program.
According to FAR Part 15.603(c), a valid unsolicited proposal must include sufficient detail to permit a determination by the government. Prospective offerors are encouraged to make preliminary contacts with agency personnel before preparing detailed FAR Part 15.603(c), unsolicited proposals, or submitting proprietary information to the government. It may save considerable time and effort for both parties. [See FAR 15.201 and 15.604(a)].
Why make an unsolicited proposal to the government, and what to consider before writing one
Unsolicited proposals are becoming increasingly important in US federal government contracting. The government accepts the submission of legitimate, unsolicited proposals that offer fresh, creative thoughts in line with its mission. However, the Department’s demands must be considered when determining the requirements for contractor resources, which are typically program-specific.
Suppose you have an innovative and unique idea for which submitting an unsolicited proposal is the right approach. In that case, you should ensure that a similar solution is not already available to the government. Also, it should not be an advance proposal for a known agency requirement to be procured by competitive methods, nor should it address previously published solicitations.
How to write an unsolicited government proposal
To write an effective unsolicited proposal:
- Clearly define the problem you’re attempting to solve and your proposed solution.
- Offer data-backed evidence that your approach is feasible and provides real value to the government. Ensure your proposal includes a detailed budget of costs, a timeline of implementation, and any other information necessary for consideration.
- Finally, tailor your proposal to show why your approach is superior to other potential solutions.
Your proposal must explain how your idea will save cost or time or minimize risks from using your service or product. This is your value proposition.
What to include in an unsolicited government proposal
To make your unsolicited proposal impressive, it’s crucial that it’s brief and speaks directly to the government’s need by using their name and briefly including:
- A short executive summary of your product or service’s outcomes or results indicating why your product or service is worth considering
- The purpose of your product or service
- The government’s problem or issue that your product or service addresses
- How your service or product works, methodology, team, technical specifications, or timeframe
- The results or outcomes it delivers
Benefits of an unsolicited proposal
Unsolicited proposals are an effective way to demonstrate the value of your services or products proactively. They provide a platform to clearly and concisely present your capabilities and qualifications to the government. With proper research and planning, unsolicited proposals help position yourself for success with government agencies and significantly increase the chance of receiving government contracts.
Before submitting an unsolicited proposal, businesses must understand the essentials. iQuasar’s dedicated and knowledgeable proposal development team is here to ensure that your unsolicited proposal takes flight. We’ll take the time to truly understand your idea and incorporate your input and vision into a compelling submission package. Please feel free to set up a meeting with us to learn more about our wide array of proposal development services.
