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The tier system, explained
MatchMarket uses three tiers to meet every business where it is - and to show buyers, at a glance, how prepared and verified a vendor is. Here is what each tier means and how to move up.
The three tiers
Think of the tiers as a ladder. Everyone starts at Tier 1, and each step up signals more readiness and more trust to buyers.
Registered
A registered business with a basic profile. You appear in the directory, can browse every opportunity, and get pointed to free local resources that help you become procurement-ready.
Procurement Ready
You have confirmed an EIN, a business bank account, and filled in a full profile. Now the matching engine includes you when buyers post work, and you are eligible for referrals.
Verified
Human-vetted by SUSLA. You earn the gold badge buyers trust and appear at the top of every search - the lowest-risk, most-prepared vendors.
Why your tier matters
Your tier affects how often - and how prominently - buyers see you:
- 1
Tier 3 vendors appear first
Verified businesses are shown at the top of buyer searches and matched lists, with a gold badge buyers recognize. - 2
Tier 2 and 3 vendors get matched to opportunities
When a buyer posts work, the matching engine scores qualified vendors and notifies the best fits. A fuller, higher-tier profile scores better. - 3
Tier 1 vendors can still browse and apply
You can search and see every open opportunity and express interest - moving up simply gets you found more easily.
How to move up
From Tier 1 to Tier 2 (Procurement Ready):
- 1
Confirm your EIN
Your federal Employer Identification Number. - 2
Confirm a business bank account
Shows buyers you are set up to operate and get paid as a business. - 3
Complete your profile
Including a clear description of what you do - your capability statement.
From Tier 2 to Tier 3 (Verified):
- 1
Apply for verification
From the Tier 3 Verification page in your dashboard, submit your application. - 2
SUSLA reviews it
A real person at SUSLA vets your business - this is human review, not self-reporting. - 3
Earn your badge
Once approved, your profile shows the gold Verified badge and rises to the top of buyer searches. You will be notified the moment it is approved.
Need help getting ready?