System for Award Management (SAM)

What is SAM?

The System for Award Management (SAM) is the primary supplier database for the U.S. Federal government, collecting, validating and storing data from suppliers and then making that data available to various government acquisition agencies.

Why do I need to register in SAM?

Both current and potential government vendors MUST register in SAM in order to be awarded contracts by the Government. Vendors are required to complete a one-time registration to provide basic information relevant to procurement and financial transactions. Vendors must update or renew their registration annually to maintain an active status.

SAM allows Government agencies and contractors to search for your company based on your ability, size, location, experience, ownership, and more. SAM allows users to search for firms certified by the SBA under the 8(a) Development and Hubzone Programs. SAM also incorporates the ORCA system which is a web-based system where the vendor provides required information about the firm (e.g., accounting procedures; travel policies) and verifies that the firm meets certain Federal requirements (e.g., complies with equal opportunity legislation).

Note: There is no cost to register in SAM.

For more information, please visit www.sam.gov.

Resource: U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT)