New to Federal Contracting? Start Here: Your First 5 Moves in 90 Days

If you're new to federal contracting, the acronyms alone can feel like a maze. Here's a simple 90-day roadmap:

**Days 1-14: Register.** SAM.gov registration is free and mandatory. Get your Unique Entity ID (UEI) first — no UEI, no federal contract.

**Days 15-30: Pick your lane.** Identify 3-5 NAICS codes where you can genuinely compete.

**Days 31-60: Build your one-pager.** A capability statement is the single document every contracting officer asks for.

**Days 61-75: Hunt small.** Micro-purchases and simplified acquisitions under the SAT mean less competition and faster awards.

**Days 76-90: Talk to humans.** Attend one industry day or matchmaking event. Relationships win contracts.

What's your #1 getting-started question? Drop it below — this community answers fast.