10 Must-Have Steps to Never Miss a TBIPS/SBIPS RFP

10 Must-Have Steps to Never Miss a TBIPS/SBIPS RFP

10 Must-Have Steps to Never Miss a TBIPS/SBIPS RFP

Jan 28, 2025

10 Must-Have Steps to Never Miss a TBIPS/SBIPS RFP

Winning federal IT contracts through TBIPS and SBIPS requires more than just checking a few boxes—it demands a strategic, proactive approach. This in-depth guide outlines 10 essential steps to ensure you never miss a key opportunity, with real-world examples to bring each strategy to life.

1. Comprehensive RFP Monitoring & Alerts

Set up alerts on platforms like CanadaBuys, MERX, and Biddingo. Consider using AI-powered scanners to catch relevant RFPs in real-time.

2. Understand the Procurement Landscape

Familiarize yourself with the distinctions between TBIPS (resource-based services) and SBIPS (solution-based projects), and track industry trends and incumbents like IBM or Veritaaq.

3. Pre-RFP Preparation and Qualification

Ensure your firm is listed under TBIPS/SBIPS and maintain a roster of cleared personnel to meet contract requirements.

4. Deep Dive into the RFP Document

Read the RFP thoroughly. Use AI tools to extract data and build a compliance matrix to track requirements against your response.

5. Evaluate Bid Requirements & Eligibility

Conduct a Go/No-Go analysis and leverage your past performance for stronger scoring.

6. Proposal Crafting & Quality Assurance

Tailor your language to match the RFP, use measurable evidence, and conduct “red team” reviews for quality control.

7. Leverage Advanced Compliance Strategies

Attend industry briefings and understand legal recourse in case of irregular evaluations.

8. Monitor Policy & Process Changes

Stay updated on PSPC announcements and be ready for digitization and AI-driven bid reviews.

9. Competitor Benchmarking & Market Intelligence

Analyze winning vendors, track contract expiry dates, and prepare early for re-competitions.

10. Unconventional Monitoring & Continuous Improvement

Use alternative intel sources, request debriefs after every bid, and build a centralized feedback database.

Bonus Section: Case Studies & Real-World Insights

  • GC Strategies’ ArriveCAN Win: They secured a $25.3M task with a top-tier compliance matrix and cleared personnel.

  • Cache Consulting Tribunal Case: One missed certification derailed a solid proposal, underscoring compliance rigor.

  • Pre-RFP Engagement: Early input during an SSC briefing reshaped evaluation criteria, improving win rates.

By mastering these 10 steps, your firm can move from reactive to dominant in the TBIPS/SBIPS bidding landscape.