If you've been wondering how to get in on the $400 billion federal contracts market, the SBA might have the answer: It has launched a free, online course, "Business Opportunities: A Guide to Winning Federal Contracts." The self-paced guide is aimed at small business owners, especially women entrepreneurs and small firms in underserved markets.

The comprehensive course uses both script and audio to provide information about the federal market and the rules governing federal contracts. It also reveals where to find contract opportunities, how to sell to the government and provides more than 40 links to the best contracting resources.

Entrepreneurs who complete the 30-minute tutorial can earn a certificate of completion from the SBA.

On a typical day, 700 to 1,500 customers register for online courses offered by SBA, through its virtual campus at the Small Business Training Network.