Question 1

What is SAM.gov and why do I need to register?

Accepted Answer

SAM.gov (System for Award Management) is the official U.S. government system where businesses must register to bid on federal contracts, receive government payments, and be visible to contracting officers. Without an active SAM registration, your business cannot participate in any federal procurement opportunity. Registration is free on SAM.gov, but the process can be complex — which is exactly where we help.

Question 2

How long does SAM.gov registration take?

Accepted Answer

The SAM.gov registration process typically takes 7-10 business days when handled correctly. However, if there are issues with your IRS TIN validation, CAGE code assignment, or entity verification, it can take significantly longer. When you work with The Contracting Preacher, we handle all aspects of your registration to minimize delays and ensure accuracy.

Question 3

What is the 8(a) Business Development Program?

Accepted Answer

The 8(a) program is a 9-year business development program administered by the SBA for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. It provides access to sole-source contracts (up to $4.5M for services and $7M for manufacturing), mentoring, and federal contracting set-aside opportunities. It is one of the most powerful programs in federal contracting.

Question 4

Do I need to be local to work with you?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! With 15 offices across the country — from Columbia, SC to New York, Washington DC, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago, Las Vegas, and San Juan, PR — we serve clients nationwide. Federal contracting is a national marketplace, and our services work the same regardless of your location. We've helped businesses across all 50 states win federal contracts.

Question 5

How much does it cost to get started in federal contracting?

Accepted Answer

The cost varies based on your specific needs. SAM.gov registration itself is free (beware of scam sites that charge for this!), but getting expert help ensures it's done correctly. Our service packages start at $497 for SAM registration assistance. Certification applications and proposal writing services have separate pricing. We always provide a clear quote during your free consultation — no hidden fees.

Question 6

What types of businesses can get government contracts?

Accepted Answer

Virtually every type of business can compete for federal contracts. The government buys everything — from office supplies, IT services, and janitorial services to construction, consulting, healthcare, logistics, food services, and more. There are over 1,000 NAICS codes that the government uses to classify its purchases. During your consultation, we identify which codes best match your capabilities.

Question 7

What is a NAICS code and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) codes are 6-digit codes that classify businesses by industry. Every federal contract solicitation includes a NAICS code that determines which businesses can bid and what the small business size standard is. Selecting the right NAICS codes during your SAM registration is critical — it determines which contracts you're eligible for.

Question 8

What is your proposal win rate?

Accepted Answer

Our proposal win rate is 89%, which is significantly above the industry average of 25-40%. This success comes from our disciplined approach: we only recommend bidding on contracts where you have a genuine competitive advantage, and we invest the time to craft proposals that directly address every evaluation criterion. Quality over quantity — that's the Contracting Preacher way.

Question 9

What is the difference between WOSB and EDWOSB?

Accepted Answer

WOSB stands for Women-Owned Small Business, requiring at least 51% ownership and control by one or more women. EDWOSB stands for Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business, which has the same requirements plus additional criteria based on the woman owner's personal net worth (must be less than $750,000, excluding primary residence and business ownership). EDWOSB certification opens up additional set-aside contract opportunities.

Question 10

How is The Contracting Preacher different from other consultants?

Accepted Answer

Dr. McKnight brings a unique combination of deep federal contracting expertise and faith-driven values. We don't just process paperwork — we build relationships, educate our clients, and genuinely care about your success. Our approach is hands-on and personalized. You won't be treated like a number. And with an 89% proposal win rate and over $50 million in contracts won for our clients, the results speak for themselves.

Everything You Need to Know About Federal Contracting

Ready to Win Your First — or Next — Federal Contract?