Sole-source award
A sole-source award is a contract given to one supplier without competition.
Facts checked
Definition
A sole-source award is a contract given to one supplier without competition. Federal agencies may do this only under exceptions listed in FAR 6.302, such as when only one responsible source can meet the need or the need is unusually urgent, and must document a written justification.
Small-business programs have their own sole-source authorities: certified 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB and WOSB firms can receive sole-source awards below set dollar limits.
How it differs
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vs. Set-aside
A set-aside limits competition to a group of firms; a sole-source award skips competition entirely. What is Set-aside?
Open bids right now
BidRover lists 16 open notices with "sole source" in the title right now. Newest first:
- SOLE SOURCE REQUEST TO PURCHASE Rain Bird VFD pump stationMississippi, United States · Due Nov 6, 2026
- SOLE SOURCE REQUEST TO PURCHASE Nuclear grade fibrous glass HEPA medium Qualified to ASME AG-1Mississippi, United States · Due Nov 6, 2026
- Sole Source Request to Purchase Band UniformsMississippi, United States · Due Oct 30, 2026
- Sole Source No.Mississippi, United States · Due Nov 3, 2026
- Sole Source No.Mississippi, United States · Due Nov 4, 2026
Related terms
Questions
What does "sole-source award" mean in procurement?
A sole-source award is a contract given to one supplier without competition. Federal agencies may do this only under exceptions listed in FAR 6.302, such as when only one responsible source can meet the need or the need is unusually urgent, and must document a written justification.
What is the difference between Sole-source award and Set-aside?
A set-aside limits competition to a group of firms; a sole-source award skips competition entirely.