A Practice Note providing an overview of the federal government contracting process. This Note provides tips on how to become a US government contractor and reviews the various types of federal government contracts and procurements, including simplified acquisition procedures, sealed bids, negotiated procurements, commercial product and commercial service acquisitions, federal supply schedules, and subcontracts. This Note also addresses specific requirements for government contracts, including cost accounting standards, US export controls and sanctions, and bid protests, as well as implementing an effective compliance program to address these requirements.