What Is a Request for Information (RFI)?
A request for information (RFI) is a notice an agency uses to gather market information, like prices and capabilities, to plan a purchase. It isn't a bid.
RFI (request for information) in plain English
Agencies send out RFIs early, while they're still deciding what to buy and how. An RFI might ask about your experience, how you'd approach the work, typical pricing or delivery times.
The government doesn't intend to award a contract from an RFI and won't pay for the information. Your response can't be accepted as a binding offer, and there's no required format, so follow whatever the notice asks for.
SAM.gov has no separate RFI notice type. RFIs are usually posted as sources sought notices or special notices, so search those types when you're looking for them.
Related terms
- Sources sought notice: A sources sought notice is market research: an agency asks which businesses can do a job before it decides how to buy. Answering it isn't a bid.
- Solicitation: A solicitation is an agency's official request for bids, quotes or proposals. It describes the work, the terms, how to respond and how offers are judged.
- RFP (request for proposals): A request for proposals (RFP) is the solicitation for a negotiated contract, where the agency can weigh price against your approach and past performance.
- Capability statement: A capability statement is a one-page summary of your business for agencies and prime contractors: what you do, what sets you apart and your past work.
Put it to work
Looking for another term? Browse the full glossary or the government contracting glossary guide.