GovCon Glossary: 10 Terms Every Beginner Must Know

If you’re new to government contracting, the alphabet soup of acronyms can feel like you need a decoder ring. NAICS? PSC? FAR? Yeah, it’s a lot. But here’s the truth: once you learn these terms, you stop guessing and start playing the game like a pro. Let’s break down 10 GovCon terms every beginner needs to know — no jargon, just plain English.

• NAICS (North American Industry Classification System)
  Think of it as your business ID number for the feds. It tells the government what industry you’re in. Example: janitorial = 561720.

• PSC (Product Service Code)
  These codes explain what you’re selling. While NAICS is about industry, PSC is about the actual product/service.

• FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation)
  The government’s rulebook for buying stuff. Ignore it, and you’re out of the game before you start.

• SAM.gov
  The official government contracting portal. If you’re not registered here, you can’t play. Period.

• UEI (Unique Entity Identifier)
  Replaced the old DUNS number. It’s like your business’s SSN for federal contracts.

• SBA (Small Business Administration)
  Your potential BFF. They offer certifications, resources, and advantages that help you compete.

• Set-Aside Contracts
  Reserved opportunities just for small businesses (like WOSB, HUBZone, 8(a)). Translation: less competition, more chances.

• RFP (Request for Proposal)
  A government’s way of saying, “We need this — tell us how you’ll deliver.” This is where you pitch your solution.

• RFQ (Request for Quote)
  Simpler than an RFP. Basically, “How much will it cost us?”

• CPARS (Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System)
  Your federal report card. Good reviews = more contracts. Bad reviews = tough road ahead