Getting registered in SAM is an important first step in federal contracting, but it’s just that—the first step. Many businesses assume that once they’re in the system, contract opportunities will naturally follow. The reality is that federal contracting is competitive, and businesses that don’t take proactive steps after registration risk falling behind. Agencies prioritize vendors who stay engaged, update their profiles, and actively pursue opportunities.
The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is the federal standard for classifying businesses based on economic activity. NAICS codes are essential for businesses pursuing federal opportunities and are used by government agencies for statistical analysis and contracting. If you want to register in SAM, apply for set-aside contracts, or conduct market research, your NAICS code determines your eligibility and competition.