We talk with business owners every week who are sure they don’t need a certification to win government work. Some are right. Most are working from a myth. Here are the six we hear most, and what is actually true.
Myth 1: “If my price is the lowest, I’ll win.”
What’s true: Price only matters in the competitions you’re allowed to enter. Set-aside and sole-source work is closed to uncertified firms before price is even considered. On California state bids, a certified Small Business gets a 5% preference in the price evaluation, so your lower price can still lose.
Myth 2: “Being registered in SAM.gov is the same as being certified.”
What’s true: SAM.gov registration makes you eligible to be paid on a federal contract. It isn’t a certification. Programs like 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB and SDVOSB require a separate SBA application. California SB, Micro Business and DVBE certification comes from the Department of General Services. See self-certification vs. SBA certification.
Myth 3: “Certification takes too long to be worth it.”
What’s true: California SB certification is free and typically takes 30 to 45 days once a complete application is submitted. Most delays come from incomplete or mismatched documents, which is the part a consultant can prevent. Federal programs take longer, but they can unlock sole-source awards worth millions.
Myth 4: “Primes will hire me because my work is good.”
What’s true: Primes need to meet small business, DVBE and DBE goals. A capable subcontractor without a certification doesn’t help them hit those numbers. Certified firms get called first. See how prime contractors find subcontractors.
Myth 5: “My business is too small, or too new, to qualify.”
What’s true: Being small is the point. Micro Business certification in California exists for the smallest firms. Many certifications don’t require years of government past performance, although some federal programs, like 8(a), do look at time in business and potential for success.
Myth 6: “Once I’m certified, the work will come to me.”
What’s true: Certification opens the door, but you still have to walk through it. Certified firms that win keep their profiles optimized, send capability statements to buyers and primes, respond quickly to quote requests and keep their certifications renewed.
The bottom line
You can win some government contracts without certification. But if you qualify and stay uncertified, you’re competing for a smaller share of the work under tougher conditions. See what certification unlocks in 2026 and the SB/DVBE Option.
Frequently asked questions
Is SAM.gov registration a certification?
No. SAM.gov registration lets you receive federal contracts and payments. Certifications such as 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB and SDVOSB are separate SBA programs, and California SB and DVBE certification comes from the Department of General Services.
How long does California Small Business certification take?
Usually 30 to 45 days after DGS receives a complete application. There is no fee.
Can a new business get certified?
Often, yes. California SB and Micro Business certification are based on size, ownership and location rather than years in business, although some federal programs such as 8(a) consider time in business.
Will certification guarantee I win contracts?
No. Certification gives you access to set-asides, preferences and direct awards, but you still need strong profiles, outreach and competitive proposals.
Work with GERC
We tell you which certifications you qualify for, file them correctly the first time, and help you turn them into contracts. GERC is a woman-owned firm in San Bernardino, registered in SAM.gov under CAGE code 11SD2 and certified by the State of California as a Small Business (Micro) and a Small Business for Public Works (SB-PW). Book a consultation or see our capability statement.