Glossary / Solicitations
Request for InformationRFI
A Request for Information (RFI) is a non-binding solicitation used by federal agencies for market research under FAR Part 10. Agencies issue RFIs to assess industry capability, gather input on requirements, identify small-business sources, and validate acquisition strategy. Responses are usually short (many RFIs set a page limit) and include capability statements, similar past performance, and comments on the draft requirement. RFIs do not commit the government to any specific procurement, but they often telegraph upcoming RFPs.
Why it matters to your pipeline
Quality RFI responses shape solicitations. Small businesses that demonstrate capability in an RFI response can push agencies toward set-aside strategies they might otherwise have deemed infeasible. Technical comments on draft requirements can remove unnecessary barriers or features that favor incumbents. Treating RFIs as part of capture rather than a compliance exercise pays off.
When this term shows up in an opening GovSmith finds for you, your vCM explains what it means for that pursuit and does whatever it calls for. You decide; we do the work.
Example
A small firm submits a detailed RFI response showing three similar small-business projects and proposes tailored evaluation criteria. The agency sets aside the resulting RFP to small business, and the firm wins the $7M award.
Find out what applies to you
Some terms will matter to your business right away and some won’t for years. A vCM can tell you which are which.