Federal Contracting Insights
In-depth articles on CAGE codes, SAM.gov registration, small business certifications, federal market intelligence, and government contracting strategy — written for contractors, BD professionals, and contracting officers.
Aug 31, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
Federal agencies use CAGE codes far beyond just identifying contract awardees. They are woven into contractor performance databases, payment systems, supply chain tracking, and past performance retrieval. Understanding how agencies use your CAGE code helps you manage your federal reputation proactively.
Aug 22, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
SBA mentor-protégé programs pair small businesses with experienced federal contractors to accelerate capability development and market access. As a protégé, you gain technical assistance, past performance through joint ventures, and access to a mentor's contract vehicle portfolio. This guide explains how the program works and how to find the right mentor.
Aug 13, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
Past performance is one of the most heavily weighted evaluation factors in federal source selections, and it is tied directly to your CAGE code. Building, managing, and presenting a compelling past performance record is a long-term investment that pays dividends on every competitive bid. This guide explains how past performance data is collected and how to use it strategically.
Aug 4, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
The Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) contains the official record of every U.S. federal contract award. CAGE codes link every award to a specific contractor entity, making FPDS a powerful competitive intelligence tool when you know how to read it. This guide explains the key data fields and how to use FPDS data for market research and proposal development.
Jul 26, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
A disciplined bid/no-bid decision process separates successful government contractors from the ones that spread themselves thin and win nothing. CAGE code data — decoded through SAM.gov and contract databases — gives you intelligence about the competitive landscape that can sharpen every bid decision you make. Here is how to use it.
Jul 17, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
Teaming agreements allow companies to combine capabilities, past performance, and capacities to pursue contracts neither could win alone. But a poorly drafted teaming agreement — or one that does not address CAGE code and registration requirements — can create legal and compliance problems. This practical guide covers what every teaming agreement should include.
Jul 9, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
Federal contractors can face compliance audits at any point in the contracting lifecycle — from proposal submission through contract closeout. Your CAGE code record is a central reference point in these audits, and discrepancies between your SAM.gov data and actual company practices can result in findings, payment holds, or debarment. Here is how to prepare.
Jul 1, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
A GSA Multiple Award Schedule contract is one of the most valuable contract vehicles in federal contracting, giving you a pre-negotiated vehicle to sell to any federal agency without a formal competitive process. But before you can apply, your CAGE code and SAM.gov registration must be fully in order. This guide explains the GSA Schedule process and your CAGE code's role in it.
Jun 23, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
NAICS codes are the foundation of your federal contracting identity — they determine which set-aside opportunities you see, which size standard applies to you, and how agencies classify your business. Choosing the right primary NAICS code and a thoughtful secondary code portfolio can materially improve your federal market position.
Jun 15, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
Subcontracting relationships in federal contracting are more regulated than in the commercial world. Every subcontract above reporting thresholds must be reported through FSRS using CAGE codes, and small business subcontracting plans impose legal obligations on prime contractors. This guide explains the subcontracting ecosystem and your CAGE code's role in it.
Jun 6, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
WOSB and EDWOSB certifications give women-owned small businesses access to set-aside contracts in industries where women are underrepresented in federal markets. SBA certification through certify.sba.gov is now required, replacing the former third-party certification process. This guide covers eligibility, the application, and how WOSB status ties to your CAGE code.
May 29, 2026 · Long Pattern Editorial
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification unlocks exclusive set-aside contracts across all federal agencies and is especially powerful at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Since 2023, the SBA manages SDVOSB certification, replacing the former VA-based self-certification process. This guide explains the new process from start to finish.
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