SAM.gov: What It Is and How to Register Your Business for Federal Contracts

If you’re ready to explore government contracting, one platform stands between your business and billions of dollars in federal opportunities: SAM.gov.

As part of our Project MOST workshop series, Black Tech Link Executive Director Elizabeth Cotton hosted a highly practical session walking participants through the SAM.gov registration process, one of the most important steps in becoming a federal vendor.

This session was tailored for small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and founders of emerging organizations who are curious—but often intimidated—by the idea of selling products or services to the government.

What Is SAM.gov?

SAM.gov is the System for Award Management, the official U.S. government registration system for any entity looking to:

Do business with federal agencies

Apply for federal grants or cooperative agreements

Be paid by the government for services rendered

Elizabeth emphasized that SAM.gov is 100% free and managed by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). Any third-party site charging you to register should be avoided.

Key Terms You Need to Know

Before jumping into the registration process, Elizabeth broke down some essential vocabulary:

  • UEI (Unique Entity ID) – This is the new standard identifier for businesses (replacing the DUNS number in many government systems). You will get this through SAM.gov.

  • DUNS Number – Still useful for credit and procurement records, especially in private sector contracting. You can get one at DNB.com.

  • CAGE Code – Assigned once you complete SAM registration. It’s used by the Department of Defense and other federal agencies to identify your organization.

  • NAICS Code – The North American Industry Classification System code defines your business type (e.g., 541511 for Custom Computer Programming Services).

  • PSC Code – Product or Service Codes further describe what your company offers.

Step-by-Step: How to Register on SAM.gov

  • Create a Login.gov account
    First, go to login.gov and create an account. This will serve as your sign-in for SAM.gov.

  • Search for Your Entity or Register a New One
    Log into sam.gov and check if your business is already listed. If not, start the registration process.

  • Enter Business Details
    This includes your business name, address, EIN (Employer Identification Number), and point of contact.

  • Get Your UEI Automatically
    SAM.gov will generate your Unique Entity ID during registration. No need to request it separately.

  • Add Core Business Information
    Provide a bank account for government payments, list capabilities, and confirm business size/type.

  • Input NAICS and PSC Codes
    You must select at least one NAICS code and may add multiple PSC codes. These define what services/products you offer.

  • Certify and Submit
    Finally, you’ll certify your accuracy and agree to federal contracting terms. After review, you’ll receive a CAGE Code.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Elizabeth highlighted several errors that commonly delay or derail SAM.gov registrations:

  • Using outdated business information or the wrong address

  • Selecting incorrect NAICS codes (which affects your visibility in agency searches)

  • Listing inactive bank accounts for payment

  • Leaving fields blank or rushing through without saving progress

She advised all attendees to take their time and write down passwords, UEI numbers, and application IDs. Many delays occur because users get locked out of their accounts or lose essential tracking info.

After You Register

Once registered, you’ll be searchable by federal buyers. But don’t stop there. Elizabeth shared strategies to:

  • Follow government agencies on SAM.gov and set up alerts

  • Prepare a capability statement

  • Introduce yourself at matchmaking events

  • Use your NAICS/PSC codes to find relevant Requests for Proposals (RFPs)

Project MOST Support

Through Project MOST, Black Tech Link is helping San Diego–based businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits become contract-ready. This workshop was one of many free trainings aimed at helping local leaders access public funding and procurement opportunities.

If you’re not sure where to start—or want help identifying the right codes—Black Tech Link offers:

  • Free 1-on-1 sessions

  • Custom capability statement templates

  • Certification pathway planning

Want to Join the Movement?

If you’re a small business or nonprofit looking to grow, modernize, and get connected to real opportunity—Black Tech Link is here for you.

➡️ Visit blacktechlink.org
📌 Click on the Small Business Mastery Program
🗓️ Book a free session by hitting Talk With an Expert

Your mission deserves to thrive. Let’s make that happen—together.