NAICS Codes
NAICS Codes
NAICS Codes (North American Industry Classification System)
NAICS codes (North American Industry Classification System codes) are six-digit numbers used by the U.S. government to classify businesses by industry. In federal contracting, NAICS codes are critical because they determine whether a business qualifies as a small business for a given procurement opportunity.
What is a NAICS Code
A NAICS code is a standardized classification that identifies the primary line of business activity. If someone asks, “What is a NAICS code?” the answer is that it is a system created by the U.S. Census Bureau, in collaboration with Canada and Mexico, to organize industries consistently across North America.
Federal agencies use NAICS codes to assign size standards, establish eligibility for small business programs, and categorize contracting opportunities.
NAICS Code Lookup and Search
Contractors often use a NAICS code lookup tool to identify the codes that apply to their business. You can find NAICS codes through official government resources such as the U.S. Census Bureau website or the SBA’s size standards table.
When performing a NAICS code search, companies should identify all codes that align with their products and services. Some businesses qualify under multiple codes, but they must select a primary NAICS code for SBA registration.
Construction Industry NAICS Code
NAICS codes are divided by industry sectors. For example, the construction industry NAICS code series starts with 23, which covers general construction, specialty trade contractors, and heavy and civil engineering construction. Identifying the right code ensures contractors compete for opportunities in the correct category.
Why NAICS Codes Matter in Government Contracting
NAICS codes play a vital role in government contracting:
Define small business eligibility under SBA rules
Determine participation in programs such as HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB, and 8(a)
Allow agencies to post solicitations under the appropriate industry classification
Help contractors market themselves effectively to the government
Incorrect NAICS code assignments can affect size eligibility and limit access to contracts.
How to Find NAICS Codes
Contractors can find NAICS codes by:
Using the U.S. Census Bureau’s NAICS code lookup tool
Reviewing solicitation documents, which always list the applicable NAICS code
Searching the SBA’s size standards table to confirm small business thresholds
Understanding and using the correct NAICS codes is essential for compliance and competitiveness.
How GovDash Helps with NAICS Codes
GovDash supports contractors by aligning opportunities and proposal content with the correct NAICS codes. By automating compliance tracking and opportunity mapping, GovDash helps businesses quickly identify which NAICS codes apply to a solicitation and ensures proposals are compliant with SBA size standards.
Final Thoughts
NAICS codes are more than industry classifications—they determine eligibility, compliance, and competitiveness in federal contracting. Whether you’re using a NAICS code lookup tool, searching for construction industry NAICS codes, or confirming size standards, understanding this system is essential for success in the government marketplace.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a NAICS code?
A NAICS code is a six-digit number used to classify businesses by industry for government and statistical purposes.
How do I find my NAICS code?
You can use the U.S. Census Bureau’s NAICS code lookup tool or check solicitations where agencies list applicable codes.
Why are NAICS codes important in contracting?
They determine SBA small business eligibility, define industry classifications, and are required for proposal submissions.
Can a business have multiple NAICS codes?
Yes, businesses can operate under multiple NAICS codes, but they must select a primary code when registering with the SBA.
What is the construction industry NAICS code?
Construction NAICS codes begin with 23, covering general contractors, specialty trades, and civil engineering.