Selling to the State of Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

If you're a business owner looking to tap into government contracts and expand your market reach, selling to the state of Virginia can offer promising opportunities. However, navigating the complex procurement processes and understanding the basics codes and key departments involved can be challenging. In this blog, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to register with the state of Virginia, highlight the most important departments, and furnish contact information for each department. So, let's dive in!

Step 1: Understanding the Basics Codes:

 
Before delving into the registration process, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the basic codes used by the state of Virginia. These codes categorize the goods and services the state procures, making it easier for businesses to identify relevant opportunities. The two main codes to be aware of are:
 

1. NIGP (National Institute of Governmental Purchasing) Codes:
These codes classify goods and services into various categories.

2. SWaM (Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned) Codes:
These codes identify the certifications and designations that businesses may possess, enabling them to participate in specific procurement opportunities.

 

Step 2: Identifying the Most Important Departments:

 

To effectively sell to the state of Virginia, it is essential to understand the key departments responsible for procurement. Here are three crucial departments to focus on:

Selling to the State of Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses
1. Virginia Department of General Services (DGS):
The DGS oversees the procurement process for the state. They provide information on upcoming solicitations, procurement policies, and vendor registration. Contact information for the DGS is as follows:
2. Virginia eProcurement Portal (eVA):
The eVA system is Virginia’s online procurement portal, where vendors can register, search for opportunities, and submit bids. It is mandatory for businesses to register on eVA to participate in state procurement. The contact information for eVA is as follows:
3. Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (DSBSD):
The DSBSD is dedicated to supporting small and diverse businesses. They provide assistance in becoming SWaM-certified, which can enhance your chances of securing government contracts. Contact information for DSBSD is as follows:

Step 3: Registering with the State of Virginia:

 
Now that we have covered the basics and identified the key departments, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of registering with the state of Virginia:
 
1. Obtain a DUNS Number:
A Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number is mandatory for all businesses seeking to do business with the government. You can obtain a DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) for free by visiting their website: https://www.dnb.com/duns-number/get-a-duns.html
 
2. Complete the eVA Vendor Registration:
Visit the eVA website and complete the vendor registration process. Make sure to provide accurate and detailed information about your business, capabilities, and areas of expertise. This information will help match your business with relevant opportunities.
 
3. SWaM Certification:
Consider obtaining SWaM certification if your business meets the eligibility criteria. Visit the DSBSD website and follow the instructions to apply for certification. This designation can increase your visibility and competitiveness in state procurement.

 

Selling to the state of Virginia can be a lucrative venture for businesses, but it requires a solid understanding of the basics codes, key departments, and the registration process. By following this step-by-step guide, you will be well-equipped to navigate the procurement landscape and pursue government contracts successfully. Remember to stay proactive, stay informed, and leverage the resources available to you. Good luck in your journey!

Note: The contact information provided in this blog is accurate at the time of writing, but it is always advisable to verify the details on the respective department's official website for any updated information.

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