Contract-Ready Scorecard
Thinking of bidding on major contracts? Use this health check to see if your business is ready for the "Big Leagues" with government agencies, healthcare systems, school districts, and major corporations across Indiana.
Growth Hub Report
2/1/2026
Readiness Checklist
0 of 7 completed0/7 Complete1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)
A federal tax ID number issued by the IRS. It is required for almost all business contracts.
Apply on IRS.govApply on IRS.gov: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online2. INBiz Registration
Ensure your business is registered and in "Good Standing" with the Indiana Secretary of State.
Register on INBizRegister on INBiz: https://inbiz.in.gov/3. Local Government Vendor Registration
Most cities and counties require vendor registration in their procurement system. Major cities like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, and Bloomington each have their own vendor portals. Check your local municipality's website for registration requirements.
Indiana State Procurement InfoIndiana State Procurement Info: https://www.in.gov/idoa/procurement/supplier-resource-center/Quick Links to Major Cities:
4. Capability Statement
A 1-page "resume" for your business that tells buyers exactly what you do and your past performance. Required by most government and corporate buyers across Indiana.
Download SBA TemplateDownload SBA Template: https://www.sba.gov/document/brand-guide-8a-capabilities-statement5. 2 Years of Tax Returns
Major organizations usually require at least 2 years of business tax history to prove stability.
IRS Filing InfoIRS Filing Info: https://www.irs.gov/filing6. MBE/WBE Certification
Statewide certification as a Minority or Women-Owned Business can give you a competitive edge in government and corporate bidding across Indiana.
Get Certified (Statewide)Get Certified (Statewide): https://www.in.gov/idoa/mwbe/minority-and-womens-business-enterprises/certify-your-business/indiana-firms-certification-steps/7. Current W-9 Form
A signed W-9 form is required by every organization before they can pay you.
Download W-9 (PDF)Download W-9 (PDF): https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw9.pdfYour Readiness Score
Keep going to reach 100%.
Action Plan
1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Apply on IRS.govApply on IRS.gov: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online2. INBiz Registration
Register on INBizRegister on INBiz: https://inbiz.in.gov/3. Local Government Vendor Registration
Indiana State Procurement InfoIndiana State Procurement Info: https://www.in.gov/idoa/procurement/supplier-resource-center/4. Capability Statement
Download SBA TemplateDownload SBA Template: https://www.sba.gov/document/brand-guide-8a-capabilities-statement5. 2 Years of Tax Returns
IRS Filing InfoIRS Filing Info: https://www.irs.gov/filingWhy this matters?
Major organizations across Indiana—from IU Health and Eskenazi Health to Indianapolis Public Schools, Fort Wayne, Evansville, and state agencies—have strict compliance rules. Missing just one ID number or form can disqualify your bid instantly, regardless of your work quality.