A GWAC is a pre-negotiated procurement vehicle that allows federal agencies to purchase goods and services from vetted vendors without conducting competitive bidding on each purchase. The government negotiates GWACs with qualified contractors, establishing pricing, terms, and conditions in advance. Once a GWAC is established, any federal agency can place task orders or delivery orders with the contractor without additional competition. GWACs streamline federal procurement, reduce contracting costs, and provide vendors with predictable access to federal customers. Getting on a GWAC can be a major revenue driver for contractors.
Opening Definition
A GWAC is a pre-negotiated federal contract allowing any agency to purchase from approved vendors without competitive bidding per order. GWACs streamline procurement and provide vendors with government-wide sales access.
Why It Matters for Tech Companies
Getting on a GWAC can transform your federal business. Instead of competing for each individual contract, once you're on a GWAC, any federal agency can order from you using streamlined processes. Your GWAC can generate significant revenue—vendors often report 20-40% of federal revenue flowing from GWAC task orders. GWACs also improve sales efficiency: instead of pursuing individual contract competitions requiring full proposals, you respond to task order requests with abbreviated justifications. For tech companies offering IT services, cloud services, software, or consulting, GWACs are particularly valuable.
How It Works in Practice
Types of GWACs: Schedule GWACs (GSA Schedule): General Services Administration operates GSA Schedule. Agencies order from GSA vendors using streamlined process. Agency-Specific GWACs: Individual agencies establish GWACs. Competition-Based GWACs: Agencies select multiple contractors to compete for GWAC placement. How Task Orders Work: You're on a GWAC. An agency issues a Task Order Request (TOR). You submit brief proposal justifying your company's capability. Agency awards task order based on evaluation. Example: Your software company wins a spot on the GSA Schedule GWAC. Within 6 months, three different agencies issue task orders: (1) VA issues $200K task order, (2) EPA issues $150K task order, (3) Treasury issues $300K task order. Total GWAC revenue: $650K in task orders from three agencies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underpricing: Lower-priced GWAC proposals win more task orders but may be unprofitable.
- Not marketing GWAC: Being on a GWAC doesn't mean agencies know you exist.
- Poor proposal response time: Agencies issue task orders on tight timelines. Respond quickly.
- Not maintaining pricing competitiveness: GWACs are periodically re-competed.
- Neglecting vendor relationships: Build relationships with multiple agencies.
Key Facts and Numbers
- GSA Schedule has 8,000+ contractors
- GSA Schedule generates $30+ billion annually in task orders
- Task orders typically 30-60 days to award vs. 6-12 months for competitive procurements
- GWAC pricing typically 15-25% below open market rates
- Multiple federal agencies issue task orders from single GWAC
- GSA Schedule contracts last 5 years with two 5-year renewal options
Related Terms
GSA Schedule • IDIQ • SAM.gov
Related Guides
Complete GSA Schedule Guide • GWAC Marketing and Sales Strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get on a GWAC?
Apply to specific GWAC programs (GSA Schedule, agency-specific GWACs, etc.). Each GWAC has application process and qualification requirements.
Is a GWAC the same as GSA Schedule?
Technically different. GSA Schedule is a schedule contract. GWACs are broader term. But GSA Schedule functions like GWAC.
How much does a GWAC cost to maintain?
GSA Schedule charges: $250-$400 per sales category depending on volume. Other GWACs have varying cost structures.
Can I lose a GWAC?
Yes. GWACs are periodically re-competed. If you don't meet requirements or are outbid, you can lose placement.