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FAQs - Arkansas APEX Accelerator

Do you have questions about Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) ? How do you use North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes? Having issues with System for Award Management (SAM)? Below are answers to common questions about these and other government contracting related topics.

Arkansas APEX Accelerator services are provided at no charge to clients.

Your business will need to be operational, stable, and established before beginning government contracting. 

A DUNS (Data Universal Numbering System) number is a means of identifying your legal  business entity's name and location. 

Use D&B (Dun & Bradstreet’s) iUpdate system to obtain a DUNS number. You will be asked to provide business information such as, business name, address, and contact information. 

A North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code tells government agencies what goods and/or services your business provides. For more information about NAICS Codes visit census.gov

SAM (System for Award Management) is a federal database that your business must be registered in to obtain a federal contract. Businesses must also be registered in SAM to receive payment from the federal government for goods or services provided. Registration is free.

 

Counselors often receive questions about SAM registration. It is recommended that you call your local APEX Accelerator office for assistance in navigating the SAM (System for Award Management) registration process. 

There are no SAM numbers. People are typically referring to a CAGE code when referencing a "SAM number". More details about CAGE codes are available below.

No. There is never a fee for registering or renewing a registration in this database.

Beware of phishing scams from businesses attempting to charge for this service over the telephone or through email. Any email you receive regarding your SAM registration should come from a ".gov" email address.

 The Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code is a five-character ID code using letters and numbers. This code is important in order to be awarded federal contracts. This code is not needed for state or local contracts.

Once the SAM registration process is completed and validated, a CAGE code will be issued to you via email. Please be aware that SAM validation time could vary, taking anywhere from two to three weeks. 

Once again, please contact your local APEX Accelerator for help completing the SAM registration process.

Are you ready to start bidding? Contact us!

See our Services page to get more information about how we can help you find and bid on solicitation.

Depending on how your business is structured, you may need to register with the Arkansas Secretary of State. Our counselors can help you determine if this registration is required to obtain a DUNS number.

Check out the Arkansas Secretary of State's "Doing Business in Arkansas" handbook for more information.

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