Our two person firm did 82% of our work last year for the federal government (specifically the VA). A good thing too, we would have been hard pressed to stay afloat without the federal work. One thing that has been advantageous to us is the 'set aside' of work for 'emerging small business' size firms. Try looking for that work set aside for smaller firms.
With the qualification based selection you need to focus on projects that you have a good resume for and can distinguish yourself from other firms. If you have experience as a subcontractor on federal work use that to your advantage. Federal facilities are no different than other clients and they favor firms they have had a succesful relationship with in the past. Once you get that first job and make them happy you will have a good shot at future work.
We have not had any difficulty with using consulting engineers on our projects, but with the vast array of federal acquisition rules I can't say that might not be a problem elsewhere.
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Richard Uren AIA
Northern Design Works
Negaunee MI
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