Navigating the Maze: A Straightforward Guide to SAM.Gov Enrollment for Small Businesses

Intro to Sam.gov

Sam.gov, or System for Award Management, is the central access point to register for and follow federal funding.

Why You Need Sam.gov

Through Sam.gov, entities obtain an UEI number (Unique Entity Identifier) and register for a CAGE code (Commercial and Government Entity code). Once registered, entities search for procurement opportunities and federal assistance listings, as well as apply for federal contracts and grants posted by federal agencies. 

Sam.gov streamlines the process of working with the federal government by providing a single location for vendors, contractors and bidders to manage their profiles and interact with government agencies.

UEI and CAGE

UEI is a unique identification number assigned to each entity doing business with the federal government. UEI numbers have replaced DUNS numbers in the Integrated Award Environment (IAE) systems.

CAGE codes, like UEI, are unique identifiers for U.S. entities conducting business with the government. CAGE codes standardize the process of verifying  entities and their locations. Non-U.S. organizations  will receive the equivalent NATO CAGE code. 

How-To Guide for SAM.gov Enrollment for Small Businesses

Step 1: Account Creation

Begin by visiting www.sam.gov and selecting 'Create a User Account'. Choose the account type that fits your needs, either as an individual user or a system user for interfacing with SAM via your computer system.

Step 2: User Account Verification

After submitting your account registration, check your email for a confirmation from SAM. You'll have 48 hours to activate your account by clicking the provided link, which may need to be copied and pasted into your browser.

Step 3: Entity Registration

Log in to SAM.gov with your new credentials and select 'Register New Entity' from the left side of the screen. Follow the prompts to start your registration and fill in the required information.

Step 4: Obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

As part of the registration, you'll receive a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), a 12-character alphanumeric value that is essential for doing business with the federal government. This replaces the previous DUNS number system.

Step 5: Complete Necessary Information

Ensure you fill out all sections accurately, including your North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) and Product Service Codes (PSCs), capabilities narrative and keywords. Inconsistencies or omissions can delay the process.

Step 6: Notarize and Mail Letter of Appointment

If required, the administrator should draft a letter stating their role, which must then be notarized and mailed as part of the registration process.

Step 7: Registration Activation and Status Tracking

After submission, wait for your registration to be activated, which can take up to 10 business days. Use the SAM Status Tracker to monitor your status. If there are delays, contact the Federal Service Desk for assistance.

Step 8: Start Doing Business with the Federal Government

Once your registration is active, you can begin to bid on government contracts and take advantage of the opportunities available to your business in the federal marketplace.

Conclusion

By following these steps, your small business will be well on its way to engaging in federal contracting or grant opportunities. Remember to renew your SAM registration annually to maintain your eligibility. 

Learn more about how to register with Sam.gov and access helpful graphics HERE.

Scoring Procurement Opportunities with SAM.gov

Step 1: Sign into SAM.gov

While signing in to Sam.gov is not mandatory for browsing, it is recommended to access more features of the website.

Step 2: Click on ‘Contract Opportunities’

Start here to find procurement opportunities.

Step 3: Use Filters to Narrow Your Search

You can select by keyword, notice type and dates, as well as other characteristics.

Step 4: Review Opportunities

Read solicitations thoroughly to assess fit.

Step 5: Save Searches and Set Alerts

Stay up to date on relevant opportunities.

Step 6: Engage with Opportunities

Prepare responses and follow-up as needed.

Optimizing Sam.gov for Your Business

Building Your SAM.gov Profile

Ensure your SAM.gov profile accurately represents your business by selecting the appropriate North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) and Product Service Codes (PSCs).  The NAICS identifies the type of industry while the PSC specifies the product or service the government is purchasing. Keep your profile updated with your latest capabilities and certifications to attract government interest. 

Enhancing Visibility to Government Agencies

After identifying and engaging with opportunities, focus on your government marketing strategy to increase your business’s visibility to government agencies. This can involve listing on GSA Advantage! And other best practices to become a more attractive government contractor. 

Small Business Set-Asides

The U.S. government uses set-asides for contracts when at least two small businesses are capable of providing the required product or services. 

To be eligible for a small business set-aside, a company must be registered with SAM.gov and be certified as 'small' according to the Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards. These standards vary by industry and take into account factors such as the number of employees and average annual receipts. 

There are also specific set-aside programs for businesses that fall under certain socioeconomic categories, such as the 8(a) Business Development Program, Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB), and Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Businesses (EDWOSB). For WOSB and EDWOSB, a business must be at least 51% owned by women to qualify.

About Decisive Point

Decisive Point is a venture capital firm investing in critical technologies for defense, energy, and infrastructure. We invest in founders on a mission, driving innovation across the industries critical to building a secure, healthy, and sustainable future. Our approach amplifies the impact of our investments and creates long-term value for our investors.  Visit: https://www.decisivepoint.com/