GSA Schedule Disaster Purchasing: A Comprehensive Guide

How equipped are our state and local governments when disasters strike? That's a critical question for all of us; whether the disaster is caused by natural phenomena or results from man-made incidents. The GSA Disaster Purchasing program is an initiative that empowers local and state governments to prepare, respond, and recover from disasters effectively and efficiently. Today, we delve into the key aspects and significances of this pivotal program.

Understanding The GSA Disaster Purchasing Program

The GSA Disaster Purchasing program has been initiated specifically to enable state and local governments to purchase from the GSA Multiple Award Schedule Contract for disaster preparation, response, or recovery. The disasters catered to by this program are usually declared by the President under the Stafford Act. These disasters encompass both natural calamities and man-made catastrophes.

Key Aspects of GSA Disaster Purchasing

The GSA Disaster Purchasing program can be evaluated in terms of its initiation and the scope it covers.

• Program Initiation: The Disaster Recovery Purchasing program was initially launched in the fiscal year 2007, focusing exclusively on disaster recovery. However, as of 2010, the program expanded its scope to include disaster preparedness as well.
• Program Scope: The GSA Disaster Purchasing program is designed to aid in preparing for, responding to, or recovering from disasters. This includes disasters caused by both terrorism and other man-made incidents.

GSA Schedule Disaster Purchasing Sales Trend

Since its initiation, the GSA Disaster Purchasing program has recorded remarkable growth in sales to state and local governments. From fiscal year 2011 to 2021, for instance, a more than threefold increase was observed in sales.

Fiscal Year 2021 Sales Overview

1. Total sales exceeded a whopping $185 million.
2. The largest quantum of sales happened in the Professional Services category, amounting to roughly $99 million.
3. Other significant categories include Information Technology, Security and Protection, Office Management, and Facilities.

Top GSA Schedule SINs for FY 2021

The Special Item Number (SIN) 541611, which encompasses Management and Financial Consulting, represented about 30% of all Disaster Recovery sales. Other leading SINs included Facilities Maintenance & Management, Business Information Services, IT Professional Services, and Security Training.

Importance of The Program

Disaster Purchasing through the GSA Schedule offers state and local governments a systematic and efficient process to access the necessary products and services during the critical times. This program is crucial not only for speedy procurement but also leverages the federal government’s purchasing power for better pricing and terms.

Eligibility and Participation

State and local governments, cities, counties, towns, tribal governments, and public educational institutions are all eligible to participate in this program. This initiative thus offers a wide range of resources during emergencies and disaster situations.

In essence, the GSA Disaster Purchasing program plays a pivotal role in equipping state and local entities with the tools and services needed for sound disaster management, contributing to the creation of more resilient communities. Additionally, at our website, we led by a former GSA Schedule Review expert, offering prime GSA Schedule Consulting services.