Government contracts represent a massive market for Texas businesses. Federal, state, and local governments purchase everything from office supplies to construction services to IT solutions. Getting started in government contracting requires specific registrations, certifications, and knowledge of the procurement process.
SAM.gov Registration
Registration in the System for Award Management is the first step for any business pursuing federal contracts. SAM registration is free, mandatory for federal contracting, and must be renewed annually. SAM.gov guide.
Texas HUB Certification
HUB certification provides procurement preferences on state contracts. Texas state agencies have specific HUB participation goals for professional services, commodities, construction, and other categories. HUB guide.
SBA Certifications
SBA 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, and SDVOSB certifications each provide specific contracting preferences at the federal level. These certifications open access to set-aside and sole-source contracts not available to non-certified businesses. 8(a) guide.
PTAC Assistance
Texas Procurement Technical Assistance Centers provide free guidance on government contracting. PTAC counselors help with registration, capability statements, bid preparation, and contract compliance. PTAC guide.
Bonding Assistance
The SBA Surety Bond Guarantee program helps small businesses obtain the bonds required for many government construction and service contracts.
City and County Programs
Most Texas cities and counties have their own vendor registration and small business certification programs. Registering with your local government purchasing department is a straightforward entry point for government contracting. Government contracting guide.
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