Government Contract Assistance Program > Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GCAP charge for services?

All of GCAP counseling services are FREE. We also offer training around the state that is typically free.
After the 60 day free trial, GCAP does charge a minimal fee of $60/year for the Bid Matching Service.
Back to Top

What is a DUNS number? How are they assigned? Is there a charge for U.S. Government contractors?

A DUNS number is a unique 9-digit number issued by D&B that verifies the existence of a business entity globally. D&B assigns DUNS numbers for each physical location of a business. All Government contractors can receive a DUNS number at no charge. To obtain a DUNS number click here. fedgov.dnb.com/webform.

NAICS- What are they, and where do I find them?

NAICS are mandatory codes that classify the type of business an organization offers. Beginning in 1997, the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes began replacing SIC codes. This six-digit code is a major revision that not only provides codes for newer industries, but also reorganizes the categories on a production/process-oriented basis. Within your CCR registration, you can enter or update this data field on the "Goods and Services" page. To find a NAICS that matches your business type please click here. www.census.gov/eos/www/naics/
Back to Top

What are Size Standards? How does SBA determine my size standards?

Size Standards are measures that a registrant must meet in order to qualify as a small business. SBA usually establishes size standards by the number of employees or receipts for most industries based on the NAICS (North American Industry Classification System).
Back to Top

How are CAGE Codes assigned?

The Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code is a five-character ID number used extensively within the federal government. CAGE Codes will be assigned to registrants as their CCR registration goes through the validation process.
Back to Top

How can I have my business included in the Dynamic Small Business Search?

If your business is a small business (size determined by SBA through NAICS codes in the CCR) a supplemental page with a link to your SBA profile will appear upon the completion of your CCR. By clicking on the link you will be able to enter data into your small business profile. The data will be readily accessed through the Dynamic Small Business Search, DSBS.
Back to Top

What is an MPIN?

Marketing Partner Identification Number. A number created by you when you register in CCR. It is a personal code that allows you to access other government applications such as the Past Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS) and the Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA). The MPIN acts as your password in these other systems, and you should guard it as such
Back to Top

How do I obtain a CCR Number?

There are no CCR numbers in CCR. If another entity requests your CCR Number, they are most likely asking for your DUNS Number or CAGE Code.
Back to Top

What is the difference between CCR and ORCA and why must I register in both systems?

Central Contractor Registration (CCR) is the primary vendor database for the U.S. Federal Government . Since October 1, 2003, it is federally mandated that any business wishing to do business with the federal government under a FAR-based contract must be registered in CCR before being awarded a contract. In addition, vendors must maintain their CCR records annually.

Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA) replaces most of the paper based Representations and Certifications (Reps and Certs) in Section K of solicitations.

CCR and ORCA are complementary systems. ORCA reuses data pulled from CCR and pre-populates many of the required Representations and Certifications. Then, the vendor completes the remaining Reps and Certs with the understanding that with each solicitation they are certifying to current, accurate and complete information.
Back to Top

Why was ORCA created?

Prior to ORCA, vendors were required to submit Reps and Certs for each individual large purchase contract award. Now, using ORCA, a contractor can enter their Reps and Certs information once for use on all Federal contracts. The ORCA does require an annual renewal.
Back to Top

Who needs to register in ORCA?

You must be registered in ORCA if the solicitation you are responding to requires that you have an active registration in CCR.

Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA) replaces most of the paper based Representations and Certifications (Reps and Certs) in Section K of solicitations.
Back to Top

Who can see my ORCA record?

ORCA records are considered public information. Anyone with access to the Internet, that knows your DUNS number, can search and view an ORCA record.
Back to Top