CAGE Codes by Federal Agency

The Department of Defense is the largest single buyer of goods and services in the US federal government, awarding over $400 billion in contracts each year. Every vendor — from a large defense prime to a small parts supplier — must have an active CAGE code and SAM.gov registration to receive DoD payments. DoD CAGE codes span all branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and DLA.

HHS includes the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and CMS. It is the second-largest federal contracting agency, spending heavily on medical research, IT systems, and healthcare services. A valid CAGE code and SAM.gov registration is required for all HHS vendors.

DOE manages the US nuclear weapons stockpile, national laboratories (like Sandia, Oak Ridge, and LLNL), and a large portfolio of clean energy R&D. Most DOE work flows through Management & Operating (M&O) contracts with large primes, but thousands of subcontractors and small businesses also need CAGE codes to participate in the DOE supply chain.

DHS encompasses Customs and Border Protection (CBP), FEMA, TSA, the Coast Guard (USCG), and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). DHS spends heavily on cybersecurity, border technology, emergency management, and aviation security. All DHS vendors must maintain an active CAGE code and SAM.gov registration.

NASA awards contracts for launch systems, spacecraft, science instruments, IT services, and facility management. Vendors supporting any NASA center — from JPL to Johnson Space Center to Goddard — need a valid CAGE code and SAM.gov registration. NASA relies on both large primes and a robust small business supplier base.

The VA operates the largest integrated healthcare system in the US, plus benefits and memorial programs. It is a major buyer of medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, IT systems, construction services, and professional services. The VA has strong set-aside programs for SDVOSB and VOSB businesses — both require active SAM.gov registration and a valid CAGE code.

The GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) is the gateway to selling to every federal agency. To get a GSA Schedule contract, you must have an active CAGE code and SAM.gov registration. GSA also manages Federal Buildings and fleet operations. GSA Schedule vendors can sell to DoD, civilian agencies, and state/local governments under cooperative purchasing agreements.

DOT includes the FAA, Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration, and other modal agencies. It funds and awards contracts for aviation systems, highway construction, transit infrastructure, and transportation research. All DOT vendors need a valid CAGE code and active SAM registration.

DLA is the combat support agency responsible for global logistics for all US military services. It buys fuel, food, pharmaceuticals, clothing, spare parts, and construction materials. DLA is a critical entry point for small manufacturers and distributors into the defense supply chain — a CAGE code is mandatory for all DLA vendors.

The Intelligence Community (IC) includes NSA, CIA, DIA, NGA, NRO, and other agencies. Many IC contracts are classified, but vendors still need CAGE codes and SAM.gov registrations for the unclassified procurement vehicles (OTAs, BPAs, IDIQs) used as entry points. Cleared contractors must also register in JPAS/DISS and maintain active facility clearances.