SAM.gov Opportunity Types Explained: Solicitations, Sources Sought, Award Notices and More

When you monitor SAM.gov, you'll see postings labeled with different notice types. Each one means something different and requires a different response.

Sources Sought

The agency is in market research phase — gathering information about what vendors exist. Respond. It puts your name in front of the contracting officer earliest and directly influences how they structure the eventual solicitation.

Pre-Solicitation

Announces that a formal solicitation is coming — usually within 15-30 days. Prepare. Read it carefully for scope of work, estimated value, NAICS code, and set-aside status.

Solicitation / Combined Synopsis-Solicitation

The active bid. Before committing, check: set-aside status, response deadline, evaluation criteria (LPTA vs. best value), past performance requirements, and size standard.

Award Notice

The contract was already awarded. You cannot bid — but study it. Award notices tell you who won, for how much, and contract duration. Most federal contracts run 1 year with 4 option years — mark your calendar, it will be rebid.

Special Notice

Covers industry days, pre-bid conferences, draft solicitations. If the agency is hosting an industry day for a contract in your space, attend.

Justification and Approval (J&A)

The agency is awarding without competition. These tell you which vendors the government considers sole-source capable — your strongest competitors in that space.