Alliant 3 GWAC Guide
Alliant 3 will be the successor to GSA Alliant 2, the federal government's largest unrestricted IT GWAC with a $75 billion ceiling. While still in planning, Alliant 3 is expected to become the premier vehicle for large-scale IT services across the federal enterprise. Here is what contractors should know to prepare.
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The Alliant 2 Foundation
Alliant 2 is the current unrestricted IT GWAC, awarded in 2018 with a $75 billion ceiling and a 10-year period of performance. It has become one of the most heavily used IT contract vehicles in the federal government, with billions in task orders issued annually across agencies including DoD, DHS, VA, HHS, and Treasury.
The vehicle covers the full spectrum of IT services: systems integration, software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, network infrastructure, data management, and IT outsourcing. Alliant 2 supports all contract types and has been used for some of the largest and most complex IT programs in the federal government.
As Alliant 2 approaches its natural lifecycle end, GSA will need to establish a successor vehicle to ensure continuity of service for agencies that depend on it. This successor, expected to be called Alliant 3, will likely build on the lessons learned from Alliant 2 while incorporating updates to reflect the current technology landscape.
Expected Alliant 3 Scope
Based on industry trends and GSA's stated IT priorities, Alliant 3 is expected to expand scope in several key areas while maintaining the broad IT coverage of Alliant 2.
Cloud & Infrastructure
Enhanced cloud services including multi-cloud management, edge computing, cloud-native development, and hybrid infrastructure. Expect stronger FedRAMP alignment requirements.
Cybersecurity & Zero Trust
Expanded cybersecurity scope reflecting zero trust architecture mandates, CMMC requirements, supply chain risk management, and continuous authorization to operate (cATO).
AI, ML & Data
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, generative AI, responsible AI governance, advanced analytics, and enterprise data management services.
Modernization & DevSecOps
Application modernization, API-first architecture, microservices, containerization, DevSecOps pipelines, and platform engineering services.
How to Prepare for Alliant 3
Build Your Past Performance Portfolio
Alliant-class vehicles require substantial past performance in complex IT engagements. Focus on accumulating relevant contract references with strong CPARS ratings. Multi-year, multi-million-dollar IT contracts carry the most weight. If your firm lacks scale, pursue subcontracting or teaming arrangements on current Alliant 2 task orders to build experience.
Invest in Certifications and Clearances
Industry certifications (CMMI, ISO 27001, ISO 20000, FedRAMP) and facility security clearances differentiate competitive proposals. If Alliant 3 follows the Alliant 2 model, these certifications will factor into the scoring of master contract proposals. Start the certification process now, as many take 12 to 18 months to complete.
Strengthen Your Accounting Systems
Alliant-class vehicles support cost-reimbursement task orders, which require a DCAA-adequate accounting system. Ensure your accounting system, timekeeping, and indirect rate structure meet DCAA standards before the solicitation drops. Firms without adequate systems will be limited to FFP and T&M task orders.
Monitor GSA Announcements
GSA typically releases a draft RFP and holds industry days well before the final solicitation. Track GSA Interact, SAM.gov, and industry news for Alliant 3 updates. Attending GSA-sponsored events and submitting thoughtful responses to draft RFPs can influence the final vehicle design.
Transitioning from Alliant 2
Current Alliant 2 contract holders should expect a transition period where both vehicles operate simultaneously. GSA typically allows existing task orders on the predecessor vehicle to run to completion while new task orders shift to the successor vehicle.
There is no guarantee that Alliant 2 holders will automatically receive positions on Alliant 3. Each GWAC solicitation is a fresh competition. However, Alliant 2 contract holders with strong performance records, high CPARS ratings, and demonstrated task order volume will have significant competitive advantages in the Alliant 3 evaluation.
Firms not currently on Alliant 2 should view Alliant 3 as an opportunity to compete for a position on the government's most important unrestricted IT vehicle. The competitive landscape may shift as GSA potentially adjusts evaluation criteria, adds new technical areas, or changes the scoring methodology.
Stay Ahead on Alliant 3
Track Alliant 2 task orders now to understand the competitive landscape, and get alerts when GSA releases Alliant 3 draft solicitations and industry day announcements.
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