Government Contracting Guides
Free, in-depth guides for navigating the federal marketplace. Whether you're registering on SAM.gov for the first time or evaluating set-aside certifications, these guides walk you through each step.
How to Get Started with Government Contracting
A complete guide to entering the federal marketplace. Learn how to register, find opportunities, and win your first government contract.
6 sections · Updated Mar 2026
Understanding NAICS Codes for Government Contracting
Learn what NAICS codes are, how they work in federal procurement, and how to find the right codes for your business.
5 sections · Updated Mar 2026
How to Register on SAM.gov for Government Contracting
Step-by-step guide to registering your business on SAM.gov. Learn what you need, how to complete registration, and how to maintain your account.
7 sections · Updated Mar 2026
DIBBs Explained: A Small Business Guide to DLA Solicitations
What DIBBs is, why most DLA solicitations never appear on SAM.gov, and how small businesses can find an angle in the high-volume DLA marketplace.
5 sections · Updated May 2026
SBIR & STTR Explained: Non-Dilutive Federal R&D Funding for Small Business
What SBIR and STTR are, the Phase I / II / III structure, eligibility rules, and how a small business or research-driven startup can win their first award.
6 sections · Updated May 2026
Federal Set-Aside Programs Explained
Understand the federal set-aside programs — 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB, and EDWOSB — and how they create contracting advantages for small businesses.
6 sections · Updated Mar 2026
CPARS & Past Performance Ratings: What Contractors Need to Know
Understand how CPARS ratings work, who can see them, what FAPIIS tracks publicly, and how past performance affects your ability to win future contracts.
6 sections · Updated Apr 2026
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