Supplier Registration Guide

How to become a supplier for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)

U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) targets 23% small business statutory goal in diverse-supplier spend. Current annual diverse spend: $80+ billion to small businesses.

Step 1

Get the right certification

U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) accepts these certifications:

Step 2

Match what they buy

U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) actively sources from these industries:

Step 3

Register on their supplier portal

1. Register in SAM.gov with your UEI
2. Identify relevant DoD buying commands
3. Review opportunities on SAM.gov
4. Consider mentor-protégé programs
5. Attend DoD small business events

Insider tips

What works with U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)

- Start with DLA for products - they buy everything from food to fuel
- Cybersecurity (CMMC) certification is increasingly required
- Joint ventures with established contractors can accelerate entry
- Subcontracting with large primes is an excellent starting point
- Register in DoD's Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs)

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