GovCon Acronym Decoder
Government contracting runs on shorthand. Search any acronym and get a plain-English definition, when you will run into it, whether you need one, and where it comes from.
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3 of 172 terms matching "CAGE"
Commercial and Government Entity Code
A five-character code that identifies a specific facility or location of your company to the federal government. It ties your company to a physical address.
When you see it
On your SAM registration, on contract award documents, in DoD systems, and any time a prime asks for your company data.
Do you need it
Yes, and you do not apply separately for it. When you complete your SAM.gov registration, a CAGE code is assigned to you automatically.
Where it comes from
Assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) through the Defense Logistics Information Service. Foreign entities get an NCAGE instead.
Commercial and Government Entity Code
A five-character code that identifies a specific facility or location of your company to the federal government. It ties your company to a physical address.
When you see it
On your SAM registration, on contract award documents, in DoD systems, and any time a prime asks for your company data.
Do you need it
Yes, and you do not apply separately for it. When you complete your SAM.gov registration, a CAGE code is assigned to you automatically.
Where it comes from
Assigned by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) through the Defense Logistics Information Service. Foreign entities get an NCAGE instead.
NATO Commercial and Government Entity Code
The CAGE code equivalent for entities located outside the United States.
When you see it
When a non-U.S. entity registers in SAM.gov or joins a team as a foreign sub.
Do you need it
Only if your entity is based outside the United States.
Where it comes from
NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).
Defense Logistics Agency
The DoD combat support agency that buys supplies, fuel, parts, and logistics services. Also issues CAGE codes.
When you see it
In solicitation headers, forecasts, and outreach events. Knowing which component inside the agency actually buys what you sell is the real work.
Do you need it
If this agency buys what you sell, start with their small business office. They publish forecasts, host outreach, and will take a capability briefing.
Where it comes from
Federal agency. Small business support runs through their OSDBU or equivalent office.
Knowing the words is step one
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