4 Documents That Could Help You Win More Contracts

There’s no magic combination of things that will guarantee your business wins a contract bid, but there are some documents that many consider necessary to include with your bid. The important documents below may help you win contracts if you prepare them correctly.

1. Capabilities Statement

A capabilities statement seems like a no brainer — you want to be able to showcase what your company can do, right? But, many businesses don’t include a capabilities statement when bidding on contracts. A short, one-page assessment of what your business can handle may end up being one of the most important documents you include.

For a detailed list of what you can include in your capabilities statement, check out this podcast.

2. Awards/Certifications

Since many companies or clients may prefer to fill a certain amount of their contracts with disadvantaged businesses, getting certified may help you win a bid. If you’re a veteran-owned, women-owned or minority-owned business, getting the proper certifications may help. You can also be certified as a small disadvantaged business, a service disabled veteran-owned business and more. Learn more about business certifications from the Small Business Administration.

3. Company Profile/Company Fact Sheet

You won’t want to forget the basics when applying for a contract. Make sure to include basic information about your company - how many years you’ve been in business, your mission statement, your products/services and the bios of your company’s founders.

You should also include positive testimonials from past or current clients, if possible. If you haven’t had many clients or just lack testimonials, you can still help show your credibility through your business credit report.

4. Business Credit Report

Your business credit report can help your potential client assess the risk your business may bring. Often, clients will look at a bidders’ business credit reports to see past payment experiences, if there are any suits, liens or judgments against the businesses, and to evaluate the companies’ D&B® scores and ratings. By providing your D&B® D-U-N-S Number, you can make it easier for the client to find and review your business credit file, and it can help you appear confident in your business. If you have a strong business credit file, providing your D-U-N-S Number is a great way to help show clients your business is credible.

Don’t have a business credit report? Learn more about getting a free D&B D-U-N-S Number and building your business credit.

Preparing to bid on a contract is much like preparing to get a loan: if you do your research and bring the necessary documents, you’ll likely stand a better chance.

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