VA is open for business

Your market-ready products and services could help us achieve our mission of supporting Veterans and their families

How VA Buys

A mission rooted in bettering the lives of Veterans and their loved ones drives the US Department of Veterans Affairs. This dedicated purpose, combined with robust procurement capabilities, positions VA as a coveted collaborator committed to sourcing the finest products and services to empower our revered Veterans.

National Procurement

VA Values

Pathfinder’s Place

At VA, we source products and services to support our Veterans and staff on a national and local level, and can grant contracts at a national level for products and services valued over $10,000.

1. Identification of Need & Market Research

Once a team within VA identifies a need, they conduct market research to understand the possible solutions. They may issue a Request For Information to gather information from industry.

2. Contract Preparation

The acquisition department will help the team draft the contract and make key decisions: Should this be a set aside? Competitive or sole source? Fixed price or another variant?

Note: Participating in marketing research does not guarantee a contract being awarded.

3. Solicitation, Review, and Negotiation

The contracting team will issue a Request For Proposal or a Request For Quotation and assess submissions against set standards. They may meet with the contractors to discuss details, and there may be additional checks, such as business certifications or clinical review for suitability.

4. Contract Award

When all parties are satisfied with the outcome of the review process, the contracting team will award the contract to the vendor that best meets the need.

5. Contract Administration

The contractor is responsible for carrying out the terms of the contract as agreed. The acquisition department will monitor and assess the contractor's performance throughout the process.