Question 1

How do you ensure FAR compliance in a cost proposal?

Accepted Answer

We ensure FAR compliance by verifying that all direct costs and indirect cost rates are allowable, allocable, and reasonable per FAR Part 31. For grants and cooperative agreements, we ensure all costs are compliant with 2 CFR 200 Subpart E. If you do not have a negotiated indirect cost rate agreement (NICRA) with the government, our consultants can also perform a rigorous review of your indirect cost pools and proposed rates to ensure they align with your accounting practices and the cost principles.

Question 2

What is the difference between Price to Win and traditional cost estimation?

Accepted Answer

While cost estimation focuses on what the project will cost you to execute, Price to Win (PTW) is a strategic analysis of what the government is likely to pay and what your competitors are likely to bid. Akiri’s PTW support involves:
 • Competitive Intelligence: Analyzing historical award data and competitor wrap rates.
 • Shadow Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE) Modeling: Predicting the agency's internal budget expectations.
 • Strategic Trade-offs: Identifying where you can optimize labor categories, material costs, or indirect rates to hit the "sweet spot": the price point that is low enough to win but high enough to remain profitable and perform the mission successfully.

Question 3

Why is a detailed Basis of Estimate critical for a winning cost volume?

Accepted Answer

A Basis of Estimate (BOE) is the narrative bridge that connects your technical solution to your final price. It provides the methodology, logic, and data used to derive your resource requirements. In federal contracting, a well-documented BOE is essential for demonstrating Cost Realism and Reasonableness; that is, proving to the government that your price isn't just low, but is priced based on real data and makes sense for the work described.

Question 4

What is the most common reason for a "Non-Responsible" determination, and how do you prevent it?

Accepted Answer

A "Non-Responsible" determination often stems from an inadequate accounting system or lack of financial capability documentation. Akiri prevents this by conducting Pre-Award Surveys for our clients. We ensure your accounting system (like Unanet or QuickBooks with a GovCon overlay) is structured to track costs by project and that your internal controls meet the standards of SF-1408, effectively pre-clearing you for major awards.

Federal Proposal Pricing & Cost Volume Strategy

Winning Cost Proposals for FAR & 2 CFR 200 Compliance

Strategic Pricing for Contracts, Grants, and Cooperative Agreements

Advanced Price to Win & Competitive Intelligence

Our Competitive Intelligence Framework