Federal Contractor Readiness Guide
How to Create a Capability Statement
Build a one- or two-page federal capability statement with core competencies, differentiators, NAICS/PSC codes, past performance, and SAM identifiers for outreach and teaming.
What it is
A capability statement is a concise marketing document federal contractors use to introduce their firm to contracting officers, primes, and partners. SBA publishes a standard optional format for small businesses.
Who needs it
New and growing contractors who need a leave-behind for industry days, DSBS/SAM profiles, and prime subcontracting discussions.
Prerequisites
- Active SAM.gov registration with UEI and CAGE
- Selected NAICS and PSC codes that reflect actual work
Step-by-step process
- 1. Download the SBA capability statement template
Start from SBA's optional format to ensure you include core competencies, differentiators, and corporate data buyers expect.
- 2. Draft core competencies and differentiators
List three to five capabilities tied to NAICS/PSC codes and measurable differentiators (certifications, facilities, clearances) supported by evidence.
- 3. Add identifiers and socioeconomic status
Include UEI, CAGE, small business and certification status consistent with SAM.gov and SBA certifications.
- 4. Validate past performance and contact data
List recent federal or commercial contracts relevant to target agencies and provide a dedicated government-facing point of contact.
Information and documents you need
- UEI
- CAGE
- NAICS and PSC codes
- Past performance summaries
- Optional SBA template output (PDF or Word)
Cost
Using SBA's free capability statement template does not incur a federal fee.
Typical processing time
Drafting is internal; no federal processing time applies.
Common mistakes
- Marketing language without verifiable codes or past performance
- Certifications listed that are not active in SAM.gov
- Overlong brochures instead of a one-page leave-behind
What happens after approval / completion
Share the statement during outreach, upload excerpts to DSBS, and align content with proposal past-performance volumes when you bid.
Official sources
- SBA — Capability Statement Template (primary)