Quite
often companies don’t consider doing business with the government because they
don’t think that they have the capabilities to compete with the large
businesses getting all the work. I’m here to tell you that isn’t true. The
government has a mandated goal that 23% of business is set-aside for small
businesses. This means that only small businesses can competitively bid on
these contracts and win
In addition to the small business
set-aside there are several other set-asides that are guaranteed a percentage
of the total business.
8a- This set-aside is for
economically and socially disadvantaged business and can be awarded sole source
contracts without any competition. This is a certification issued by the Small
Business Administration.
Veteran Owned- This is a self-certification
for former or current military members who own at least 51% of their business.
Small Disadvantaged
Business-
This is for companies owned 51% or more by African Americans, Hispanic
Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, Subcontinent Asian Americans and Native
Americans. This is a self-certifying designation through your SAM registration.
HUBZone- This designation is for
companies who’s employees and business is located in a high unemployment, low
income area. This is an application process and 3% of business is set-aside for
these companies. In addition to this companies may receive a 10% price
preference on bids.
Woman Owned Business- this is a self-certifying
designation through SAM with a contracting goal of 5%.
Service Disabled Veteran
Owned Small Business- This set-aside is for former military members injured in the
line of duty that own 51% or greater of their business. The government wide
contracting goal on this category is 3%.
