Getting Started with Government Contracting: Basic Requirements and How SCM Consulting Can Help

Entering the world of government contracting can be a game-changer for small businesses—but it can also feel overwhelming. At SCM Consulting, we specialize in guiding businesses through the essential steps to become eligible and competitive for federal, state, and local government contracts.

Understanding the Basics of Government Contracting

Before diving into the contracting process, businesses must meet a few foundational requirements. These steps are non-negotiable and form the basis for eligibility:

Business Registration

Ensure your business is legally registered in your state and has a valid EIN (Employer Identification Number).

SAM.gov Registration

Every federal contractor must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov). This central database is where all federal contractors must be listed in order to bid and receive payments.

NAICS Code Identification

You’ll need to identify your North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes. These codes describe the type of products or services you offer.

DUNS to UEI Transition

As of 2022, the federal government transitioned from DUNS numbers to Unique Entity Identifiers (UEI), now required for SAM.gov registration.

Core Compliance and Certification Requirements

To remain competitive, especially for set-aside contracts, additional steps may include:

• Small Business Certifications (e.g., 8(a), SDVOSB, WOSB, HUBZone)
• Capability Statement development
• Past Performance Documentation
• Financial and Tax Readiness

How SCM Consulting Helps You Get Started

At SCM, we don’t just walk you through the requirements—we tailor your path based on your business size, goals, and industry. Our team helps with:

• SAM.gov & UEI registration assistance
• NAICS & certification strategy
• Drafting a compelling capability statement
• Building past performance references
• Strategic planning for contract readiness

Whether you’re applying for your first opportunity or repositioning for a new set-aside category, our experts provide the roadmap and momentum you need to move forward.