State and Local Government Contracting vs. Federal

Dreaming of landing a government contract but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. One of the most important decisions you’ll make early on is whether to pursue state, local, or federal contracts. Each level offers unique opportunities—and challenges. Understanding the differences is your first step to winning big.

At GovPointe, we help small businesses like yours determine the right fit and develop strategies that align with your strengths, goals, and capacity.

🚨 Why This Matters in 2025

With major government initiatives like “Buy American, Hire American” and increased infrastructure and cybersecurity funding, more contracts are flowing across all levels of government. But competition is increasing—and the rules vary by level.

🔍 Key Differences Between Federal, State, and Local Contracting

• Registration Requirements
  • Federal: Requires a SAM.gov registration and a Unique Entity ID (UEI)
  • State/Local: Each has its own portal, rules, and vendor registration system



• Contract Size and Scope
  • Federal: Larger, often long-term contracts with nationwide scope
  • State/Local: Smaller contracts, quicker turnaround, often based on regional needs



• Compliance and Oversight
  • Federal: Heavily regulated (FAR, DCAA, CMMC requirements)
  • State/Local: Less intense, more accessible for new vendors



• Funding Sources
  • Federal: Tracked through USAspending.gov
  • State/Local: Funded through taxes, grants, or federal disbursements

💼 Getting Started: Federal Contracting

• ✅ Create a Login.gov account


• ✅ Register your business on SAM.gov


• ✅ Select accurate NAICS codes to reflect your services


• ✅ Build your SBA profile in the Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS)


• ✅ Use tools like FPDS.gov and USAspending.gov to identify where dollars are going

🏛️ Getting Started: State and Local Contracting

• ✅ Register as a vendor with your state or city’s procurement portal


• ✅ Use state-based sites like Cal eProcure (CA), VendorNet (WI), or NYC PASSPort


• ✅ Attend local procurement workshops and small business fairs


• ✅ Monitor local bid boards and electronic procurement systems

🏆 Leveraging Small Business Certifications

Regardless of the level, certifications can set you apart:

• • Federal: WOSB, HUBZone, 8(a), SDVOSB (apply via certify.sba.gov)


• • State/Local: MWBE, DBE, SBE certifications—check your state’s eligibility requirements

📈 Where GovPointe Fits In

GovPointe helps you:

• ✔️ Identify whether federal or local contracting aligns best with your goals



• ✔️ Register on SAM.gov and DSBS properly



• ✔️ Match with state/local portals and get vendor-ready



• ✔️ Navigate certifications to improve eligibility and competitiveness



• ✔️ Build strong proposals for all levels of government

🚀 Which One Should You Pursue?

New to contracting?

State and local contracts may be a great way to build past performance.

Ready for more scale and stability?

Federal contracts may be your next leap forward.

Smart businesses do both—and GovPointe helps you do it with strategy, confidence, and results.

📞 Your Next Step

Let GovPointe be your partner in choosing the right contracting path—federal, state, or both. The opportunities are there. It’s time your business showed up to claim them.

📩 Email: [email protected]

📞 Call: (775) 502-1002

GovPointe – Where Small Businesses Become Government Winners.