If you’ve been in construction for years, you already know how to manage crews, estimate jobs, and deliver results. However, when it comes to federal contracting, it might feel like a completely different world. That’s normal. Plenty of experienced business owners run into that same feeling.

Here’s the good news: the federal government is one of the largest buyers of construction services in the country. They contract out everything from:

• Repairs on federal buildings

• Road and infrastructure construction

• Military housing renovations

• Landscaping and facility maintenance

But you can’t just raise your hand and get hired. There are specific steps you need to take first.

Step 1: Get Registered in SAM

Before you can win government work, you need to register in the System for Award Management (SAM). This is your entry point. Without SAM, you won’t appear in searches or be eligible for most opportunities.

To register, you’ll need:

• A Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

• Business and ownership details

• A valid business bank account

You also have to renew your SAM registration every year to stay active and compliant.
Get assistance from USFCR with your SAM registration.

Step 2: Know Your NAICS Code

NAICS codes are how the government categorizes your business. Think of it like industry shorthand.

For construction, common codes include:

• 236220: Commercial and Institutional Building Construction

• 238910: Site Preparation Contractors

• 238990: All Other Specialty Trade Contractors

If your business covers multiple specialties, you can select more than one NAICS Code, but make sure each one accurately reflects what you do.

Step 3: Certifications Can Give You an Edge

Not every federal contract is open to all businesses. Some are set aside for companies that meet specific criteria. These set-aside certifications reduce competition and open up exclusive opportunities.

Here are the most common ones:

• SDVOSB: Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business

• 8(a): For socially and economically disadvantaged businesses

• WOSB/EDWOSB: Women-Owned Small Businesses

• HUBZone: Located in historically underutilized business zones

Even if you don’t hold a certification today, it’s worth checking whether you qualify.

Step 4: Build a Capabilities Statement

In the federal space, no one is asking for glossy brochures. Instead, buyers want a capabilities statement. It’s a one-page document that covers:

• What you do (core competencies)

• Why they should hire you (differentiators)

• Your past experience (past performance)

• Contact info, UEI, and CAGE code

It’s often your first impression, so make it easy to read and professionally formatted. This document helps open doors to subcontracting opportunities and smaller direct awards.

Step 5: Start Small and Learn as You Go

You don’t need to chase million-dollar projects right away. Many new contractors begin with simpler jobs under the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT). These opportunities are:

• Quicker to award

• Less competitive

• Easier to complete without prior federal experience

That said, SAT projects are still competitive. You’ll need a solid proposal and a compliant setup to win. Tools like USFCR’s Advanced Procurement Portal (APP) can help you find small jobs that fit your business size and skill set. Learn about USFCR's Simplified Acquisition Program (SAP) to help you leverage SAT contracts.

Real-World Example: Foret Contracting Group

Foret Contracting, a small business in landscaping and construction, signed up with USFCR to pursue federal work. They completed SAM registration, set up their federal marketing tools, and landed a $11,813 contract with the U.S. Coast Guard in under four months. The project was for grounds maintenance in New Orleans.

Their advice? Be willing to expand what you offer and step outside your comfort zone.

What Should You Have Ready Before You Apply? 

To avoid delays and ensure eligibility, make sure you have:

• Past project details or references

• Current business licenses and permits

• General liability and workers’ compensation insurance

• Bonding capacity for larger jobs

• Your business bank account and UEI number

You also need to know about federal construction regulations, including:

• Davis-Bacon Act: Requires you to pay prevailing wages on federal construction sites

• Buy American Act: Regulates the use of foreign vs. domestic materials

• Miller Act: Requires performance and payment bonds for jobs over $150,000

Cybersecurity for Construction? Sometimes, Yes

If you want to work on Department of Defense projects, especially on military bases or housing, you may be required to meet Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standards. This ensures your business can securely handle government data.

Executive Order 14240: What to Know

Executive Order 14240, signed in March 2025, is expected to streamline some parts of construction procurement under the GSA. It may affect how contracts are awarded, so stay informed through trusted sources like SBA.gov or USFCR updates.

What’s Next?

If you’re ready to pursue federal construction jobs, your next move is SAM registration. After that, you’ll want to assess your eligibility for certifications, gather documentation, and start exploring opportunities.

Don’t wait until things slow down. Government work is available year-round, and contracts are being awarded every day.

Get started with USFCR today—complete your SAM registration and start winning contracts!

To speak with a Registration and Contracting Specialist, Call (866) 216-5343

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