NAICS CodeFinder
Find the right NAICS codes for your business. Search by keyword, browse by industry, and discover matching government contracts.
Definition
NAICS codes are standardized 2-6 digit numbers from the North American Industry Classification System that categorize businesses by activity. Federal agencies use them to classify contract opportunities, and the SBA uses them to determine small business size standards for set-aside eligibility.
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How to Choose the Right NAICS Code
Identify Your Primary Activity
Start with what your business does most. Your primary NAICS code should match your largest revenue-generating activity. Search above using keywords that describe your core service or product.
Go As Specific As Possible
Use the most specific (longest) code that fits. A 6-digit code like 541511 (Custom Computer Programming) is better than 54 (Professional Services) for matching relevant contract opportunities.
Check the Size Standard
Each NAICS code has an SBA size standard. Make sure you qualify as a small business under your chosen codes if you plan to pursue small business set-asides. Size standards vary significantly between codes.
Add Secondary Codes
Register all applicable NAICS codes in SAM.gov, not just your primary one. This ensures you appear in searches for all types of work you can perform. There's no limit to how many codes you can register.
Why This Matters for Contractors
Choosing the wrong NAICS code can mean missing relevant contract opportunities entirely. Contracting officers search SAM.gov by NAICS code when identifying potential vendors. If your registration doesn't include the right codes, you won't appear in their searches — even if you're perfectly qualified for the work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a NAICS code?
A NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code is a 2 to 6-digit number that classifies businesses by their primary activity. The U.S. Census Bureau maintains the system. Federal agencies use NAICS codes to categorize contract opportunities and determine small business size standards.
How do I find the right NAICS code for my business?
Search by keyword describing your primary business activity (e.g., "software development" or "construction"). Look for the most specific 6-digit code that matches your core work. You can also browse by 2-digit sector to narrow down. Your SAM.gov registration should list all NAICS codes applicable to your business.
Can my business have multiple NAICS codes?
Yes. Most businesses register with multiple NAICS codes in SAM.gov to match the range of services or products they provide. You should have a primary NAICS code (your main revenue source) plus secondary codes for other capabilities. Each NAICS code has its own SBA size standard.
How do NAICS codes affect set-aside eligibility?
Each NAICS code has a corresponding SBA size standard (either revenue or employee count). Your eligibility for small business set-asides is determined by the NAICS code assigned to a specific contract, not your overall business size. A company might qualify as small under one NAICS code but not another.
How often do NAICS codes change?
The Census Bureau revises NAICS codes every 5 years. The most recent revision was in 2022. Changes typically involve splitting, combining, or reclassifying codes to reflect evolving industries. Contractors should review updates to ensure their SAM.gov registration stays current.
Where do I register my NAICS codes?
Register your NAICS codes in SAM.gov (System for Award Management). SAM.gov registration is free and required for all federal contractors. You can add or update NAICS codes at any time by logging into your SAM.gov entity registration.
Find Contracts for Your NAICS Codes
Search thousands of federal opportunities filtered by your NAICS codes. Get alerts when new contracts match your industry.