Nonprofit Organization

Nonprofit organizations — including universities, research institutes, and 501(c)(3) charities — regularly win federal contracts and grants. Nonprofits need CAGE codes and SAM.gov registrations for contracts (FAR-based awards). Grants are managed separately through Grants.gov but some agencies use SAM.gov registration as a prerequisite. Nonprofits may qualify as small under SBA size standards in some NAICS codes.

How This Affects Your CAGE Code Record

When you register on SAM.gov and receive a CAGE code, your business type and socioeconomic certifications are recorded in your entity profile. Contracting officers and prime contractors can look up your CAGE code to verify these designations before teaming or awarding a subcontract. Keeping your SAM.gov registration active and your certifications current is essential — an expired registration will hide your set-aside status from any CAGE code lookup.

Registration Process

Register in SAM.gov with your EIN. Nonprofits must complete the same registration as for-profit entities. CAGE codes for nonprofits are assigned by DLA and function identically.

Required Certifications

SAM.gov registration
IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter (for grants)

Key Points

Eligible for research grants (NIH, NSF, DOE)
FAR Part 31.7 — specific cost principles for nonprofits
Access to cooperative agreements and grants
No restriction on winning cost-type contracts

Get Your CAGE Code for Nonprofit Organization

CAGE codes are assigned free during SAM.gov registration. Use certify.sba.gov for SBA program certifications after your SAM registration is active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do universities need CAGE codes?

Yes. Universities that receive federal contracts or grants through some agencies must have a SAM.gov registration, which includes a CAGE code.

Is a grant the same as a contract?

No. Grants are awarded under 2 CFR Part 200; contracts under the FAR. Both may require SAM.gov registration and CAGE codes depending on the agency.

Can a nonprofit win a small business set-aside?

Generally no — SBA size standards apply to for-profit businesses. Nonprofits typically compete in full-and-open competition.

Contract Data