Getting a contract from the federal government incurs several steps and processes. To win a government contract, it is mandatory to take several steps, from registering the business in the system to getting the project awarded. Several federal contracts are set aside for women, businesses, and minorities each year. There are certain requirements to get government awards, which are discussed below.
Steps required for getting government contracts:
Following are the steps required to acquire government contracting opportunities for small businesses. These steps are as follows.
Step 1: Registering the business:
To win a government contract, it is mandatory to take several steps to register the business in the System for Award Management. System for Award Management is the United States’ official website with various databases of companies interested in offering government contracts. Following are the steps incurred in registering the business with the US
- Obtain the EIN:
Though small businesses have to operate off their SSNs, the vendors must have their unique EIN. It is possible to acquire this EIN through the Internal Revenue Service.
- Establish an Address:
It is mandatory to establish a physical address for the business. If renting office space is not ideal for a business, there are also options to use virtual office space. It is also pertinent to take help from a registered agent to meet this requirement.
- Obtain a DUNS number:
To win government contracts, the business should first obtain a DUNS number. It is a unique nine-digit number allocated for a specific physical business location.
- Obtain the NAICS code:
NAICS stands for the North American Industry Classification System. This system classifies the businesses to collect data concerning the US economy. Businesses will need the NAICS code to register and apply for federal contracts. Business people can take help from SBA to learn more about NAICS codes.
- Establish a CAGE code:
The CAGE code is a unique identifier for the business designed to be available publicly to do business with the federal government since 2014. Businesses can apply for their CAGE code with the help of the Defense Logistics Agency website.
Step 2: Explore the current business opportunities:
The next step in finding the contracting opportunity is to explore active business opportunities. This can be done by registering the business with Federal Business Opportunities to search and bid for the contracts. Businesses can search the GSA schedules program for new business contracts and find subcontracting opportunities.
Step 3: Small Business certifications:
Social or economically disadvantaged businesses can avail of benefits by obtaining the 8 (a) statuses. Such certifications will help to create additional business opportunities for the business. To find the contracting opportunity, businesses should register with SAM through Small Business Association. Obtaining the certification, businesses will be eligible to compete for sole source and set aside contracts.
Government Contracts With MySetAside
By following these steps, businesses can find business contracts. Government contracts are tough to navigate alone. Getting help from organizations like MySetAside can help with expert advice and guidance in getting government contracts.