Many Federal solicitations allow for performance based proposals and contracts. With proper proposal content and good marketing you to can secure a federal contract like a SeaPort-e or SBIR. Review your proposal to ensure you meet the following key components:
1) Specific, Clearly defined measurable contract goals
2) Schedule and Technical requirements stated in terms of desired results
3) Methods of performance measurements
4) Clearly established deliverables and other reporting requirements
5) Mandatory requirements that meet but don't exceed the Governments actual requirements.