Proposals & Estimating


Kilak Solutions’ proposal and estimation consulting services are pivotal for small construction businesses aiming to secure federal contracts. Leveraging our team’s extensive experience in federal contracting, Kilak provides tailored support to craft compelling, compliant proposals and accurate cost estimates, ensuring clients remain competitive while aligning with project requirements and budgets.


Proposal Consulting Services

Kilak’s proposal expertise helps clients navigate the complexities of federal solicitations, such as those from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) or other agencies. Services include:

  • Solicitation Analysis: Reviewing Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to identify key requirements, evaluation criteria, and compliance needs.
  • Proposal Development: Crafting clear, persuasive narratives that address technical, management, and past performance sections, ensuring alignment with federal standards (e.g., FAR, DFARS).
  • Compliance Support: Ensuring proposals meet formatting, submission, and regulatory requirements, including SAM.gov registration and certifications (e.g., 8(a), HUBZone).
  • Win Strategy Formulation: Developing strategies to highlight client strengths, such as niche expertise in tropical/arctic environments or quality control, to differentiate from competitors.
  • Review and Refinement: Conducting internal reviews to enhance clarity, coherence, and responsiveness before submission.


Estimation Consulting Services

Kilak’s estimation services deliver precise, competitive cost proposals that balance profitability with federal expectations. Key offerings include:

  • Cost Breakdown Development: Creating detailed cost estimates covering labor, materials, equipment, and overhead, tailored to project scope and location (e.g., tropical/arctic environments).
  • Risk Analysis: Identifying cost risks (e.g., supply chain issues, environmental factors) and incorporating contingencies to ensure realistic budgets.
  • Integration with RMS 3.0: Aligning estimates with USACE’s Resident Management System (RMS) 3.0 for seamless tracking and reporting during project execution.
  • Benchmarking: Using industry data and Kilak’s $120M+ project experience to ensure estimates are competitive and defensible during negotiations.
  • Value Engineering: Suggesting cost-saving alternatives without compromising quality or compliance.


Why Kilak’s Services Stand Out

  • Federal Expertise: With Kevin Short’s 20+ years managing federal, commercial, and international projects, Kilak understands the nuances of federal contracting, including USACE’s stringent requirements.
  • Tailored Approach: Services are customized to each client’s project needs, timeline, and budget, aligning with Kilak’s broader mission to support small businesses.
  • RMS 3.0 Integration: Kilak’s proficiency in RMS 3.0 ensures estimates and proposals are compatible with USACE’s contract administration tools, streamlining project transitions.
  • Proactive Innovation: By staying updated on construction trends (e.g., digital estimating tools, sustainable practices), Kilak equips clients with cutting-edge strategies.