Specialized telecom services including paging, two-way radio, and emergency communications. Find active federal and state all other telecommunications contracts — AI-scored against your profile across SAM.gov and 200+ portals.
Annual federal spend under NAICS 517919 is estimated at $200–$300 million, driven primarily by DHS, FEMA, DoD, and state/local emergency management agencies. Demand is fueled by mission-critical communications for disaster response, law enforcement interoperability, and remote area connectivity. Contracts are predominantly competitive, structured as single-award IDIQs or BPAs with 1–5 year base periods plus options. Small businesses capture roughly 40% of awards, often via sole-source 8(a) or set-aside competitions. The market is fragmented, with many small niche providers competing against a few large integrators.
These agencies are the largest buyers of all other telecommunications services and products in the federal government. Each awards contracts under NAICS 517919 regularly — build relationships with their small business offices first.
To win in 517919, focus on past performance in emergency communications and interoperability with FirstNet or P25 standards. Most awards are set aside for 8(a) or SDVOSB firms, so leverage your certification if applicable. The single highest-leverage move is to team with a prime on a large IDIQ like DHS FirstNet or DoD EMERGENCY RESPONSE contract, then pursue subcontracts. Avoid generic SAM registration; instead, target agency-specific sources sought notices and respond with technical proposals emphasizing reliability and rapid deployment.
Work is primarily bought via LPTA for routine services and best-value tradeoff for complex systems. Common vehicles include GSA Schedule 70 (special item 132-54), SEWP V (for telecom equipment), 8(a) STARS III, and agency-specific IDIQs like DHS FirstNet or DoD DISA contracts. Evaluations emphasize technical approach, past performance, and price.
Yes, for any work involving spectrum use (e.g., two-way radio, paging), you must hold relevant FCC licenses or partner with a licensed provider. Agencies often require proof of licensing in the technical proposal.
Most IDIQs under $150K don't require bonds, but larger single-award contracts (e.g., $1M+) may require bid bonds (5%) and performance bonds (100%). Check each solicitation's FAR 28.102-2 requirements.
Beyond small business status, certifications like ISO 9001 (quality), TL 9000 (telecom), and P25 compliance are highly valued. For emergency comms, FEMA's NIMS/ICS training is often mandatory.
Very competitive among small businesses—typical bids see 5–15 offers. However, many awards are set aside for 8(a) or SDVOSB, reducing competition. Large businesses face fewer but more intense bids.
Single-award IDIQs average $500K–$2M over 5 years. BPAs are smaller, often $100K–$500K. Task orders under existing vehicles range from $50K to $5M.