- A list of certified small businesses you considered for the work.
- Outreach records with dates, contacts, and responses.
- An explanation when the sub you picked is not in the target category.
- Numbers that match your plan goals and your actual award data.
Documenting good-faith effort to subcontract with small businesses
Contracting officers want proof that you looked for certified small businesses before you say a goal could not be met. Good-faith effort is a story backed up by records — who you found, how you reached out, and when — not a box you check on the plan form.
What evidence contracting officers look for
They want lists, outreach dates, and reasons when awards do not match plan goals.
How SamMatch supports the narrative
SamMatch logs matches and messages per contract so you have a dated trail.
SamMatch records which ACTIVE, SAM.gov-verified small businesses you identified for each PIID requirement. In-app messages between prime and sub stay on file with timestamps. SamMatch helps you organize evidence. It does not give legal advice or file reports for you.
Practices that strengthen your file
Source by NAICS and category, contact more than one firm, and save records early.
- Source against the NAICS and category on your approved plan.
- Contact multiple candidates — not only firms you already know.
- Keep outreach records before a contracting officer review.
- Check certifications in SAM.gov again at award time.
Frequently asked questions
Does SamMatch guarantee good-faith effort compliance?
No. SamMatch helps you find vendors and log outreach. Your compliance team and counsel decide if your file meets agency rules.
Related resources
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