Cairn Knowledge Center
Practical answers for the road into government contracting.
Practical answers for businesses exploring federal contracting—without assuming you already speak GovCon.
Latest guidance
When Does the Federal Government Pay You? What First-Time Contractors Need to Know
Understand proper invoices, acceptance, federal payment timing, WAWF, and the cash-flow gap between paying a supplier and getting paid.
Read guide →FOB Destination vs. FOB Origin: Who Pays Shipping on a Government Contract?
Learn how FOB Destination and FOB Origin affect freight costs, delivery responsibility, risk of loss, supplier quotes, and federal contract pricing.
Read guide →Can You Sell Products to the Federal Government Without Manufacturing Them?
A practical guide to federal product resale, the nonmanufacturer rule, small-business set-asides, waivers, direct shipping, and supplier readiness.
Read guide →Where Are the Small Government Purchases That Never Show Up on SAM.gov?
Learn why many federal micro-purchases are not posted on SAM.gov and how to prepare for legitimate purchase-card and small-order opportunities.
Read guide →Can a COR Change Your Federal Contract?
Learn who can authorize changes to price, scope, quantity, quality, or delivery—and what to do when government direction differs from the contract.
Read guide →Can You Ask Questions Before Bidding on a Government Contract?
How to follow the question process, ask precisely, protect sensitive information, and check amendments before submitting.
Read guide →Should You Respond to a Sources Sought Notice?
Learn when to respond, what to include, and how to represent capability, teaming, and delivery readiness accurately.
Read guide →Should You Bid on That Government Contract? A Beginner’s Screening Checklist
Before spending hours on a quote or proposal, learn how to screen a federal opportunity for fit, eligibility, delivery readiness, and submission risk.
Read guide →Do You Need a GSA Schedule? Read This Before You Pay for One
A GSA Schedule can be valuable—but it is not required for every government contractor. Learn when it makes sense and what to check first.
Read guide →Can You Win a Government Contract Without Government Past Performance?
What a new firm can show instead of federal contract history—and how to tell when a solicitation is worth pursuing.
Read guide →Thinking About Government Contracts? Do These 7 Things Before You Register on SAM.gov
Find out whether the government buys what you sell, identify possible customers, and test your ability to deliver before you register.
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