Pennsylvania small-business guide · Reviewed October 23, 2026

Could Pennsylvania be your next customer?

Start with a clear offer, the right supplier credentials and one suitable opportunity. Registration and certification allow you to compete; neither guarantees a contract.

Use the first-steps checklistOfficial supplier guidance ↗

Why now? DGS reported on October 22 that spending with small, small diverse and veteran-owned businesses reached nearly $1.5 billion in FY 2025–26. That is past procurement spending, not a new grant fund or promised sales.

Get ready to compete, one step at a time.

Use the current DGS instructions for requirements, size categories and ownership verification. Supplier registration is separate from forming your business or obtaining an EIN.

1. Define what you can deliver. Write a short description of your service or product, service area, capacity, relevant experience and contact details.
2. Register as a Commonwealth supplier. Follow the official registration instructions and keep your business information consistent.
3. Save your vendor number. DGS issues it after registration; retain it for certification and payments.
4. Choose the applicable certification route. Review the current certification instructions, size and ownership rules. Small diverse and veteran verification also require qualifying third-party certification.
5. Find a suitable opportunity. Use DGS’s opportunity directory; read the scope, submission instructions and deadline before deciding to bid.

Find official opportunities ↗

Source: DGS supplier guidance. Requirements and submission systems vary by program and solicitation.

Before you spend time preparing a bid

This is our preparation checklist, not an official qualification test. Checkmarks are not saved or transmitted. Print to retain your notes.

Prepare the cash plan before pursuing a larger job.

Map purchases, payroll and expected customer payments. Start with our free cash-timing calculator and CSV worksheet, then consider planning software only when your needs justify it.

Official sources and support

• DGS supplier registration and certification guidance
• DGS opportunity directory
• October 22, 2026 procurement announcement
• Find local small-business guidance in NEPA

Independent educational guidance from Let’s Go SMALL. We are not a government agency and do not guarantee certification, contract awards or payment. Review current official instructions and seek appropriate professional help for contract-specific questions.