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Before you can bid on or win a government contract, your business must be officially registered in state and federal procurement systems. Registration ensures that contracting officers can verify your eligibility, review your capabilities, and find you in official vendor databases.

The Ohio APEX Accelerator at The University of Toledo helps businesses across the region navigate these systems with confidence. Our team provides step-by-step support to help you register correctly—from state-level platforms like OhioBuys to federal systems like SAM.gov.

State of Ohio RegistrationÌý

1. Register your business with the state - Before bidding on any state contracts, your business must be legally registered in Ohio. °µÍø½ûÇø theÌýÌýwebsite to check registration requirements and submit your business filing.
2. Set up a Digital Identity with OHID - Ohio uses a secure statewide login system calledÌýOHID. You’ll need to create an OHID account before accessing state-run procurement platforms. To get started, visit theÌý.
3. Register as a Bidder in OhioBuys - Once you have an OHID account, use it to sign in toÌý, the official state purchasing system. Through OhioBuys, you can register as a vendor, receive solicitation alerts, and submit bids.
   • During registration, you’ll be asked to classify your products or services using United Nations Standard Products and Services Codes (UNSPSC). You can download the current UNSPSC codeset or contact the APEX team for help choosing the right code.
     

Federal Small Business Registration

1. Create a ÌýLogin.gov AccountÌý- The federal government usesÌýÌýas a secure identity platform. You’ll need a Login.gov account to access registration portals like SAM.gov. or other government-run web portals.Ìý °µÍø½ûÇø the site toÌý
2. Understand Federal Classification SystemsÌý- To register for federal contracting, you'll need to classify your business using the following code systems:
   • Ìý– Identifies the industry your business operates in.
   • – Describes what your business offers in terms of goods and services.
3. Register on SAM.gov -To bid on federal contracts, your business must have an active registration inÌýÌýRegistration includes creating an entity profile and receiving a Unique Entity ID (UEI). You can use your Login.gov credentials to sign in.
   • Before you begin, we recommend downloading the officialÌýÌýto guide you through the process.
   • Note:ÌýSAM.gov registration must be renewed every 12 months to remain active.
4. SBA Connect and Small Business Profiles -ÌýOnce registered, increase your visibility by creating a small business profile in theÌýÌýYou have the ability to opt into the database when registering on SAM.gov. However, it's recommended to check the accuracy of your profile, as some information doesn't automatically transfer platforms.Ìý

Need Help Getting Registered?

If you’re unsure where to start or have questions about any part of the registration process, the Ohio APEX Accelerator at The University of Toledo is here to help. Our advisors offer no-cost, one-on-one assistance to guide your business through local, state, and federal registration systems.

Interested in working with us?ÌýÌýto schedule a consultation orÌýlearn more about our servicesÌýbefore you begin.