Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center

University of Arkansas at Little Rock - College of Business
Donald W. Reynolds Center for Business and Economic Development
2801 S. University / Little Rock, Arkansas 72204
Phone: (501) 683-7700   Fax: (501) 683-7720

Frequently Asked Questions

41. What is a SIC code? What is a NAICS code?

A SIC code, or Standard Industrial Classification code, is a four-digit number assigned by the government to various distinct business industries. Its purpose is to numerically represent the entire field of economic activities: agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, and trapping; mining; construction; manufacturing; transportation, communications, electric, gas, and sanitary services; wholesale trade; retail trade; finance, insurance, and real estate; personal, business, professional, repair, recreation, and other services; and public administration.

The SIC code was developed for use in the classification of establishments by type of activity in which they are engaged; for purposes of facilitating the collection, tabulation, presentation, and analysis of data relating to establishments; and for promoting uniformity and comparability in the presentation of statistical data collected by various agencies of the United States Government, State agencies, trade associations, and private research organizations.

The SIC classification system has recently been replaced by the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). This common classification system was created to replace the existing classification system of each country in North America.

ASBTDC's List of SIC Codes

ASBTDC's NAICS Database - search for NAICS and SIC codes by keyword


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The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration through a partnership with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock College of Business and other institutions of higher education. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. It is the goal of UALR to eliminate discriminatory harassment and to promote equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, color, national origin, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran's status, or disability.