To sell to Virginia government, register on eVA. Out-of-state vendors allowed; tie bids favor VA residents with reciprocal preference. State spends approximately $42 billion annually with significant tech buying through VDOT, VITA, and Department of Education.
Who Can Sell to Virginia?
Any business can bid on VA contracts. Out-of-state vendors permitted. On tied bids, preference goes to VA residents. Reciprocal preference applies if your state favors its vendors. VA can price-match out-of-state bids within 10%. Your business needs valid structure and federal EIN.
How to Register as a Vendor
Register on eVA portal. Create account with business information, federal EIN, and W-9. Select NAICS codes and service areas. If eligible, apply for SWaM (Small, Women-owned, Minority-owned) certification (free, ~60 business days). Registration is straightforward; certification takes 60 days.
State Certifications That Help You Win
SWaM: Virginia certification for small/women/minority-owned businesses. Free certification taking ~60 business days. Provides strong procurement preferences and set-asides. SDVBE: Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (federal and state). Provides preferences. Micro Business: ≤25 employees AND ≤$3M revenue. Set-asides and preferences.
Contract Thresholds and Bidding Rules
Purchases under $200,000 can use small purchase procedures (simplified). Purchases of $200,000+ require formal competitive sealed bids. VA emphasizes best-value selection. Agencies evaluate technical capability, cost, and past performance. Prevailing wage applies to certain contracts. Award timelines typically 6-10 weeks.
Top Agencies Buying Technology
VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation) manages highways and transit, procuring fleet management systems, traffic technology, and infrastructure monitoring. VITA (Virginia Information Technologies Agency) purchases enterprise software, cybersecurity solutions, cloud services, and IT infrastructure for all state agencies. Department of Education procures educational technology, learning systems, and cybersecurity solutions.
How State Contracting Differs from Federal
VA state contracts follow state law, not FAR. More flexible than federal. Payment typically Net 30 (faster than federal). Compliance requirements simpler. However, prevailing wage applies to certain contracts. SWaM certification process (60 days) slower than some states but free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Tie bid preference?
On identical bids, preference goes to VA residents. This is meaningful advantage on competitive procurements.
Q: 10% price-match?
VA can match out-of-state bids within 10%, giving internal advantage to VA vendors.
Q: SWaM certification?
Free Virginia certification for small/women/minority-owned businesses. Takes ~60 business days. Provides strong preferences.
Q: Payment method?
VA pays via ACH to business accounts. Net 30 standard.
Q: Subcontracting?
Yes. Your company must be prime contractor. Disclose all subcontractors.