Government Contracting Resources

Navigating government contracting means working with a lot of systems, registrations, regulations, and organizations. We've curated the tools our clients use most — organized so you can find what you need quickly.

Not sure where to start? Contact an APEX counselor we'll point you in the right direction. 

Find Contracts & Bid Opportunities

• SAM.gov — Contract Opportunities The primary federal database for solicitations over $25,000. If the federal government is buying something, it's listed here. SAM.gov is also where you register as a federal contractor.
• DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) The Defense Logistics Agency's bid board for military supply items. Essential if you supply products to the military.
• State of Michigan — DTMB Contract Connect Michigan's portal for state government purchasing opportunities. If you want to sell to state agencies, start here.

 

Get Registered & Certified

• System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Federal registration is mandatory before you can receive any government contract or grant. Your APEX counselor can walk you through the process.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) The SBA oversees a range of certifications — including 8(a), Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and Veteran certifications — that can open set-aside contracts specifically for your business.
• HUBZone Program If your business is located in a Historically Underutilized Business Zone, HUBZone certification can give you a competitive advantage on federal contracts. Check your eligibility here.
• SBA Small Business Search (SBS)  Register your small business profile so government buyers and prime contractors can find you for subcontracting opportunities.
• SBIR/STTR Programs If your business has a research or technology focus, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs offer significant federal funding opportunities.
• Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Michigan's economic development agency — a co-funder of your APEX Accelerator and a resource for state-level business growth programs.

 

Understand the Rules

• Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) The FAR is the rulebook for federal government purchasing. Every federal contract references it. Bookmark this.
• Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations (DFARs) Supplements the FAR specifically for Department of Defense contracts. Critical reading if you're pursuing defense work.
• Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) The full compilation of federal agency regulations. Use it to look up the specific regulatory requirements that apply to your contract.
• Federal Register The daily journal of the federal government — the place to track proposed rules, final regulations, and official agency notices that may affect your contracts.
• United States Code (USC) The permanent, codified laws of the U.S. government. Useful when a contract or regulation cites a specific statute.
• Database for Military Specifications and Standards (ASSIST) Defense contracts frequently reference technical specifications. ASSIST is the official source for Military Specs and Standards.
• General Services Administration (GSA) The GSA manages federal purchasing of commercial supplies and services. If a GSA Schedule contract is the right path for your business, this is your starting point.

 

Cybersecurity Compliance

Cybersecurity requirements are a growing factor in government contracting — especially for defense work. Getting ahead of compliance protects your business and your contracts.

• Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification- DOW CIO
• Project Spectrum Free cybersecurity resources and tools specifically for small businesses and government contractors navigating CMMC and NIST requirements.
• Cybersecurity Resources- Michigan DTMB

 

Work with Defense Agencies

• Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Small Business Page The DLA is one of the largest government buyers in the world. This page is your entry point to understanding how to do business with them.
• DLA Small Business Outreach Calendar Events, matchmaking sessions, and outreach opportunities where you can meet DLA procurement officials directly.
• Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) The DCMA oversees contract performance on behalf of the DoD. Understanding their role helps you perform successfully once you win a contract.
• DoD Innovation Pathways Pathways from the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Research & Engineering — relevant if your business is working on emerging technologies.
• Made in America Office Information on domestic preference requirements and pending waivers — important context if you manufacture products that compete with imports in the federal marketplace.

 

Locate Opportunities Near You

• Opportunity Zones — Michigan If your business is located in or considering investment in a Michigan Opportunity Zone, this site explains the tax incentives and how they intersect with government and private investment.

 

Professional Organizations

Staying connected to the government contracting community keeps you informed and competitive.

• Michigan Alliance of APEX Accelerators (MiAPEX) Your statewide network of APEX Accelerator offices. If you have clients or suppliers in other Michigan regions, MiAPEX can connect you with the right local counselor.
• National Contract Management Association (NCMA) The professional association for contract management professionals — a valuable network for companies serious about growing their government contracting business.
• National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) A leading defense industry organization connecting defense contractors, suppliers, and government buyers.
• Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Connects businesses with Army procurement professionals and keeps you current on Army acquisition priorities.

 

Helpful Tools

• Acronym Finder Government contracting is full of acronyms. When you encounter one you don't recognize, this is the fastest way to decode it.

 

The Northwest Michigan APEX Accelerator is funded in part by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). This APEX Accelerator is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense.