NAICS Code Guide
Custom Computer Programming Services
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services · SBA Size Standard: $34M · ~55,000 registered entities
NAICS 541511 is for custom software developers and programmers building bespoke applications for federal clients. Covers everything from agency portals to data pipelines to mobile apps.
About NAICS 541511
NAICS 541511 covers establishments primarily engaged in writing, modifying, testing, and supporting software to meet the needs of a specific client. Unlike 541512 (systems integrators), 541511 firms focus on original code: custom applications, API development, mobile apps for federal agencies, data pipelines, and bespoke software tools. Many Agile/DevSecOps shops and digital services firms use this code. It is also the primary code for 18F-adjacent digital services vendors and companies competing on USDS task orders.
541511
NAICS Code
$34M
SBA Size Standard
55,000
Registered Entities
Applicable Set-Aside Programs
Companies that qualify under NAICS 541511 and hold applicable SBA certifications can compete for set-aside contracts reserved for these programs. Certifications are linked to your CAGE code record in SAM.gov.
Learn about set-aside programs →Top Federal Buyers Under NAICS 541511
These agencies award the most contract dollars under this NAICS code. See full award data on FedAtlas.com.
541511 vs. 541512: Which Code Is Right?
The key distinction is primary activity:
- 541511: Your primary revenue comes from writing original code — software development, programming, scripting, API development.
- 541512: Your primary revenue comes from designing and integrating systems — combining hardware, software, and networking components into a solution.
Many federal vendors list both. If you're primarily a software developer but occasionally integrate components, 541511 is usually the better primary code. Contracting officers often look for 541511 for Agile development task orders.
SBA Size Standard for NAICS 541511
The SBA size standard for NAICS 541511 is $34 million in average annual receipts — the same as 541512. This reflects the SBA's view that both coding firms and systems integrators compete in similar markets.
Look Up a NAICS 541511 Vendor
Decode any CAGE code to verify a vendor's primary NAICS code, SAM status, and certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does NAICS 541511 qualify for small business set-asides?
Yes. The size standard is $34M average annual receipts — same as 541512. All major set-aside programs (8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone) apply.
Which GWAC vehicles cover NAICS 541511?
OASIS+, 8(a) STARS III, ALLIANT 2 SB, CIOSP3, and agency-specific IDIQs. Many agencies issue software development task orders under these vehicles.
Contract Award Data
NAICS 541511 Awards on FedAtlas.com
See every federal contract won under NAICS 541511 — by company, agency, state, and year.
NAICS 541511 Quick Facts
- Code
- 541511
- Sector
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- SBA Size Standard
- $34M
Quick Decode
Related NAICS Codes
- 541512 Computer Systems Design Services
- 541519 Other Computer Related Services
- 541611 Administrative Management and Gener...
- 541330 Engineering Services
- 541715 Research and Development in the Phy...