Correctional facility management, support services, and prisoner rehabilitation programs. Find active federal and state correctional institutions contracts — AI-scored against your profile across SAM.gov and 200+ portals.
Annual federal spending under NAICS 922140 exceeds $3 billion, dominated by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) for facility operations, medical care, and prisoner transportation. Contracts are typically large, multi-year IDIQs or firm-fixed-price with performance-based metrics. Demand is driven by mandatory detention requirements, court-ordered capacity expansions, and rehabilitation program mandates. Competition is moderate but concentrated among a few large primes; small businesses often serve as subcontractors for healthcare, food service, and vocational training. Set-asides for 8(a) and SDVOSB are available but less common than full-and-open competitions.
These agencies are the largest buyers of correctional institutions services and products in the federal government. Each awards contracts under NAICS 922140 regularly — build relationships with their small business offices first.
To win under 922140, target BOP's annual 'Comprehensive Correctional Services' BPA solicitations and USMS's prisoner detention IDIQs. Focus on 8(a) or HUBZone set-asides when available. The highest-leverage move is to form a joint venture with an incumbent prime to gain past performance in correctional facility management. Invest in COR (Contracting Officer Representative) relationships and demonstrate cost-saving rehabilitation outcomes.
Most 922140 work is procured via agency-specific IDIQs (e.g., BOP's 'Comprehensive Correctional Services' contract) or GSA Schedule 738 X (Facility Management). Best-value tradeoff is the norm, evaluating past performance, staffing plans, and security protocols. LPTA is used only for simple support services like janitorial or food service.
Contractors must hold a valid facility license from the state where services are performed, plus ACA (American Correctional Association) accreditation for most BOP contracts. Staff must meet federal security clearance requirements, including background checks and drug testing.
Awards range from $5 million for small medical or food service subcontracts to over $500 million for full facility operations IDIQs. The average prime contract is around $50 million over a 5-year base period.
Yes, performance and payment bonds are typically required for contracts exceeding $150,000. For large facility operations, bonds may be 100% of the contract value. Subcontractors may need to provide their own bonds.
It's moderately competitive. Small businesses often succeed as subcontractors for specialized services (e.g., healthcare, education, mental health). Prime contracts are usually won by large firms, but 8(a) and HUBZone set-asides exist for smaller scopes.
Past performance in correctional settings is the most critical factor. Technical approach for safety, security, and rehabilitation programs is second. Price is evaluated but not the primary driver; LPTA is rare for full operations.