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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2 of 172 terms matching "DUNS"
Data Universal Numbering System Number
The nine-digit Dun & Bradstreet identifier the government used before the UEI. It is retired for federal award purposes.
When you see it
In older documents, templates, and legacy contract files.
Do you need it
Not for federal registration anymore. Some commercial partners and lenders still ask for it.
Where it comes from
Dun & Bradstreet.
Data Universal Numbering System Number
The nine-digit Dun & Bradstreet identifier the government used before the UEI. It is retired for federal award purposes.
When you see it
In older documents, templates, and legacy contract files.
Do you need it
Not for federal registration anymore. Some commercial partners and lenders still ask for it.
Where it comes from
Dun & Bradstreet.
Unique Entity Identifier
A 12-character alphanumeric ID that identifies your business to the federal government. It replaced the DUNS number in April 2022.
When you see it
On every registration, proposal cover page, and contract document.
Do you need it
Yes. You get one automatically when you register in SAM.gov.
Where it comes from
Issued by SAM.gov, free of charge.
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