What types of federal contracts are not posted publicly?

While most federal contract opportunities must be publicly posted, several categories are exempt from public notice: **Not required to be posted on SAM.gov:** - Micro-purchases under $10,000 - Actions under $25,000 (some simplified acquisition) - Classified contracts for national security - Certain intelligence community acquisitions - Emergency acquisitions under specific authorities - Purchases through existing contract vehicles (not always visible) **Limited visibility opportunities:** - Task orders under IDIQ contracts (may post to vehicle holders only) - BPA calls (available only to BPA holders) - GSA Schedule purchases (agencies buy directly) - Cooperative agreements and grants (different system) - Interagency agreements (government to government) **Where to find non-public opportunities:** - Intelligence community: IC-specific portals and clearance requirements - Task orders: Register on IDIQ vehicles to receive RFQs - GSA Schedule: eBuy, GSA Advantage, direct agency contact - Agency portals: Some agencies have supplemental posting sites **Building access to non-public work:** - Obtain necessary security clearances - Win positions on IDIQ vehicles - Get on GSA Schedule - Network with contracting officers and program managers - Monitor agency forecasts and industry days **What's not exempt:** - Most contracts over SAT ($250,000) must be posted - Synopsis required 15 days before solicitation for large contracts - Contract awards are publicly reported in FPDS - Sole source justifications over $750K are publicly posted