Grant Seekers: SAM & DUNS: Register Your Business Now!
Amy Barkley, Team Leader & Livestock Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program
SAM & DUNS: Register Your Business Now So You Don't Miss a Funding Opportunity Later
Article by the CCE Livestock Program Work Team
It is common for a business to miss out on a grant opportunity simply because they could not get their SAM or DUNS registration completed in time for an application deadline. Registering only requires a little of your time, but it can take weeks to receive your number. If you intend to apply for federal grant funds anytime in the future, we strongly recommend registering your farm or business now, so you'll be prepared for grant opportunities that may come your way.
What are SAM and DUNS? They are registries for businesses. SAM is used by the US government for entities that receive federal funds. DUNS, which stands for "data universal numbering system," is used to register hundreds of millions global businesses. Enrolling in both registries is NECESSARY to receive federal grants—like from the USDA--and is FREE & EASY.
How do I do it? Start by applying for a DUNS number. To do this you can call 1-(866) 705-5711 or visit https://www.dnb.com/duns-numbe... or www.dnb.com. To complete the process to obtain a DUNS number, you will need to provide the following information:
- Legal name of your business entity
- Address
- Phone number
- Name of the CEO or business owner
- Legal structure or type of business (corporation, partnership, proprietorship, etc.)
- Year the entity was created
- Primary line of business
- Total number of employees (full- and part-time)
Once you have been assigned a DUNS number, you must annually register on SAM.gov to remain eligible to receive program financial assistance. To complete the process on SAM, you will need the same kind of information used to obtain your DUNS number as well as your Tax Identification Number (TIN) and other data to complete registration and reporting requirements.
NOTE: Never pay or attempt to register for SAM on a .com website. Use only the links provided above. There are dozens of scam companies online that will attempt to charge you for this free service, including offers to renew your SAM, which is required annually. NEVER pay, just keep your log-in information in a safe place and log in to renew as needed.
Now, when grant opportunities come around, you'll be ready!
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Upcoming Events
Livestock Production Field Day
August 29, 2026 : Livestock Production Field Day
Chaffee, NY and East Aurora, NY,
Join us on visits to Horizon Ridge Farm in East Aurora and Troll Bridge Farm in Chaffee for an introduction to small beef and small diversified livestock enterprises. Through walking farm tours, attendees will learn about management, meat processing, setting prices, and finding local markets. Dinner will be provided. Register by contacting Amy Barkley at amb544@cornell.edu or 716-640-0844.
Poultry Processing Workshop, Naples, NY
September 17, 2026 : Poultry Processing Workshop - Naples, NY
Naples, NY
This program is one of four statewide roadshow stops across the state, offering farmers a full poultry processing experience. The class will teach skills that build confidence, reduce costs, and strengthen your farm's independence. This hands-on workshop gives farmers the chance to process a bird from start to finish, learning every step of the workflow used by small farms across the state.
Large Animal Awareness Training For First Responders
September 19, 2026
Dunkirk, NY
Join the Chautauqua County Technical Rescue Services and NYS Veterinarian, Dr. Kate Card-Allen, for a specialized training on how to safely and effectively respond to large animal incidents. Learn techniques for managing large animals during traffic accidents, rollovers, entrapments and other transportation emergencies.
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