SAM.gov

SAM.gov is the single most important registration step for any company that wants to win federal contracts. It replaced several legacy systems including the Central Contractor Registration (CCR), Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA), and the Excluded Parties List System (EPLS).

To register, you need a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), your NAICS codes, banking information for electronic funds transfer (EFT), and details about your business structure. The process is free but typically takes 2-4 weeks for initial validation.

Your SAM.gov registration must be renewed annually. An expired registration means you cannot receive new contract awards or modifications. Many small businesses lose opportunities simply because their registration lapsed.

Beyond registration, SAM.gov also hosts contract opportunities (formerly on FBO.gov), wage determinations, federal hierarchy data, and the exclusions database. It is the front door to federal contracting.