The federal government is required by law to award at least 23% of all prime contracts to small businesses. That's over $160 billion per year reserved specifically for companies like yours.
Small Business Set-Aside Programs
8(a) Business Development Program
Run by the SBA, the 8(a) program is for socially and economically disadvantaged businesses. Benefits include sole-source contracts up to $4.5M (goods) or $7M (services), mentorship, and federal contract access for 9 years.
HUBZone Program
If your business is located in a Historically Underutilized Business Zone and 35%+ of employees live in a HUBZone, you qualify for 10% price evaluation preference on full-and-open competitions.
SDVOSB / VOSB
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses get sole-source contracts up to $5M (goods) or $7M (manufacturing). The VA has its own verification program (CVE).
WOSB / EDWOSB
Women-Owned Small Businesses can receive sole-source contracts up to $5M (goods) or $7M (manufacturing) in industries where WOSBs are underrepresented.
How to Get Certified
Most certifications are done through SAM.gov or the SBA's certification portal. The process involves:
- Active SAM.gov registration with valid UEI
- Meets SBA size standard for your primary NAICS code
- Supporting documentation (tax returns, ownership docs, payroll records)
- Review period: 2-6 months depending on program
Competing Against Larger Firms
Even without set-asides, small businesses can compete:
- Team up — Form joint ventures or mentor-protege relationships
- Subcontract first — Build past performance as a sub before going prime
- Specialize — Agencies value niche expertise over broad capabilities
- Price competitively — Lower overhead = lower rates
Finding the Right Opportunities
GovSeeker matches your NAICS codes and certifications with relevant opportunities across federal, state, and local governments. Our AI filters out noise so you only see contracts you can actually win.
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