What are U.S. DoW Industry Days?
Federal industry days are government-hosted events designed to connect agencies with potential vendors before a formal solicitation is released.
During an industry day, agencies share information about upcoming contracting opportunities, explain their acquisition strategies, and conduct market research on emerging technology.
While industry days are not formal bidding opportunities, they are critical business development events for companies seeking U.S. DoW contracts.
Industry Day events are often posted on SAM.gov and can be found using the Search functionality:
- Login to SAM.gov.
- Select Search and choose Contracting, and Contract Opportunities domain.
- Enter “Industry Day” under Simple Search keyword search
- Under Actions, Save your search to make it easier to search for new notices.
Some agencies will also post their events on their websites.
What to expect at an industry day
A typical industry day begins with opening remarks from a Contracting Officer or Program Manager, followed by an overview of the agency’s mission and current priorities.
It is important to understand that these sessions are informational and are not designed for vendors to pitch their services extensively.
Sessions also often include:
- Information about an upcoming procurement, including scope, objectives, and acquisition strategy
- A live question-and-answer session
- Networking or matchmaking opportunities with prime contractors and other attendees
How to prepare before attending
Before attending an industry day:
- Research the agency: Mission, recent contract awards, strategic priorities
- Review the SAM.gov listing, along with RFPs, pre-solicitation notices
- Create a tailored capability statement (1–2 pages) which includes core services, relevant past performance, NAICS codes, customized to the specific agency
- Hosting the Industry Day
- Prepare a 30–60 second elevator pitch that covers: Who you are, what problem you solve, why your solution aligns with the opportunity
Best practices during the event
Industry days require a blend of professionalism, awareness, and strategic engagement.
- Engage thoughtfully: ask informed questions, avoid pricing, deadlines, or previously covered topics and do not discuss procurement-sensitive matters
- Maintain strong event etiquette: arrive early, stay attentive, take notes
- For virtual events: mute when not speaking, test your tech
- Keep introductions brief and relevant; avoid overselling during Q&A.
- Use networking/matchmaking sessions strategically: Connect with primes and complementary vendors, exchange contact information, explore teaming opportunities and use attendee lists for targeted follow-up
Following up after the event
The follow-up process is where many businesses either strengthen or lose their momentum.
- Follow up within 48–72 hours.
- Contact agency points of contact and Prime contractors or vendors you met
- Include your tailored capability statement.
- Reference the specific opportunity discussed.
- Express interest in partnering, teaming, or future engagements.
- Timely, professional follow-up helps reinforce your company’s credibility.