Sources Sought Notice
A sources sought notice is a market-research request — not a solicitation. An agency posts it to identify businesses capable of meeting a future requirement and to gauge whether enough small firms exist to justify a [set-aside](/glossary/set-aside). No contract is awarded from a sources sought, but a strong response can influence how the agency structures the eventual solicitation.
Why you should respond
- It can trigger a set-aside. If enough capable small businesses respond, the agency may set the contract aside under the "rule of two," limiting your competition.
- It puts you on the radar. Your response shows the contracting officer you exist and are qualified before the real solicitation drops.
- It’s low-cost intel. Responding teaches you the requirement early, so you can prepare while competitors are caught flat-footed.
Treat it like a mini capability statement
A good sources sought response maps your past performance and capabilities directly to the agency’s stated need, lists your NAICS codes and certifications, and answers any specific questions the notice asks.
A sources sought or RFI is one of three "no-award" research tools — see RFP vs RFQ vs RFI for how they differ from actual solicitations.
Catch sources sought notices early and analyze them with AI — free.
Find early-stage notices →Frequently asked questions
Is a sources sought notice a solicitation?
No. A sources sought is market research used to identify capable businesses and inform the agency’s acquisition strategy. No contract is awarded from it, but it often precedes — and shapes — the real solicitation.
Should I respond to a sources sought even if I can’t do the whole job?
Often yes. Responding demonstrates a capable small-business market (which can drive a set-aside) and can position you as a subcontractor or teaming partner even if you wouldn’t bid as the prime.