Once you’ve defined your company, you must register to do business with the government. The Central Contractor Registration (CCR), a government-maintained database, is a primary source that Federal agencies use to learn about prospective vendors. This database is a marketing tool for businesses, because agencies can search for companies based on their abilities, size, location, experience, ownership, etc. The CCR contains the Small Business Source System (SBSS), an internal database of firms certified by SBA under the 8(a) Business Development and HUBZone programs, and a Dynamic Small Business Search section that allows you to list a profile of your company. 

To register your business in this database, you will need the following information:

• Your NAICS code; 
• Your SBA size standard;
• Your Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS);
• Your Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN or EIN);
• Your Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes;  
• Your Product Service codes (optional but useful);
• Your Federal Supply Classification codes (optional but useful).

To register, click here. You should include all NAICS codes that identify the type of contracts you can perform. 

If you’d like to find out about subcontracting opportunities, link into SBA’s Subcontracting Network (SUB-Net).

HAZMAT Registration Program
If your company is a hazardous materials transporter, you may also list with the HAZMAT Registration Program of the U.S. Department of Transportation. HAZMAT companies are required to file an annual registration statement and pay a fee; that fee is reduced for companies registering as small businesses. To get more information and register, go to HAZMAT Registration.