What Is a Capability Statement — And What Should Be On It?
Your One-Page Power Tool for Government and Private Contracts
If you’ve ever tried to get into government contracting, apply for a vendor list, or pitch your services to a hospital, university, or corporate buyer, someone probably asked for your capability statement.
And if you’re sitting there thinking, “What exactly is that?”, you’re not alone.
A capability statement is one of the most important tools you can have as a business owner trying to land larger contracts. It's simple, it's powerful, and it’s often required.
Here’s what it is, why it matters, and what yours needs to include.
So, What Is a Capability Statement?
A capability statement is a one-page business document that introduces your company to buyers and contracting officers. Think of it as a business résumé, but designed for decision-makers in government, healthcare, construction, logistics, manufacturing, and other B2B spaces.
It tells them:
- Who you are
- What you do
- Why you’re qualified
- How to reach you
And it does all that in a clean, easy-to-skim format.
Why You Need One
Even if you’re just starting out, your capability statement signals that you’re serious, professional, and ready for contracts. Here’s what it helps you do:
- Register with government entities and procurement systems (like SAM.gov)
- Respond to RFPs, RFQs, or vendor applications
- Pitch yourself to procurement teams, hospital networks, universities, or municipalities
- Get saved in a buyer’s internal vendor database
- Stand out from competitors who show up empty-handed
What Should Be On It?
Here’s a breakdown of the key sections every capability statement should include:
1. Core Competencies
This is a short bullet list of what your business does best. Be specific.
“Same-day and routed courier delivery specializing in medical specimens, pharmaceuticals, and critical freight.”
2. Differentiators
What makes you different from competitors? Is it your experience, technology, niche, flexibility, certifications, or turnaround time?
“100% HIPAA-trained drivers, woman-owned, temperature-controlled capacity, TSA-cleared, available 24/7.”
3. Company Data
This is your business info:
- Business name
- Owner name
- Phone, email, website
- Year established
- State of incorporation
- DUNS or UEI number
- SAM.gov status
4. Certifications (if applicable)
- Minority/Women-Owned (MBE/WBE)
- SBA 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, etc.
- HIPAA, Bloodborne Pathogen, TSA STA
- DOT/MC/Carrier numbers (for transportation)
5. NAICS Codes
Use relevant NAICS codes to identify your services (e.g., 492110 for couriers, 541614 for logistics support).
Not sure what codes apply to you? Use the NAICS search tool.
6. Past Performance (if any)
Have you done work with labs, clinics, municipalities, or government agencies? Mention them. If you’re just starting out, you can use strong testimonials or your personal experience.
Pro Tips
- Keep it one page
- Use professional branding and your logo
- Save as a PDF with a clear filename:
YourBusinessName_CapabilityStatement.pdf - Keep it updated every 6–12 months
- Bring it with you to meetings, networking events, or vendor visits
Reach out if you’d like a custom-designed CAPABILITY STATEMENT with your logo, colors, and industry-specific language.