18.116
Service-disabled Veteran-owned Small Business (SDVOSB) sole source awards
FAR 18.116 permits agencies to make sole source awards to eligible SDVOSBs, streamlining acquisitions and supporting veteran-owned businesses.
Overview
FAR 18.116 allows federal agencies to award contracts directly to Service-disabled Veteran-owned Small Business (SDVOSB) concerns on a sole source basis, provided the business is eligible under the SDVOSB Program. This provision is designed to streamline the acquisition process and support veteran-owned businesses, especially in urgent or flexible acquisition scenarios. Contracting officers must ensure that the SDVOSB meets all eligibility requirements as outlined in FAR 19.1406 before proceeding with a sole source award.
Key Rules
- SDVOSB Sole Source Awards
- Agencies may award contracts to eligible SDVOSBs without competition when certain conditions are met.
- Eligibility Verification
- The SDVOSB must be verified as eligible under the SDVOSB Program (see FAR 19.1406 for detailed criteria).
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must verify SDVOSB eligibility and ensure compliance with program requirements before awarding a sole source contract.
- Contractors: SDVOSBs must maintain eligibility and provide necessary documentation upon request.
- Agencies: Should document the justification for using a sole source award and follow internal approval processes.
Practical Implications
- This section enables faster procurement and supports veteran-owned businesses, particularly in urgent or flexible acquisition situations.
- Contractors should be prepared to demonstrate eligibility and compliance with SDVOSB requirements.
- Common pitfalls include failure to verify eligibility or improper documentation, which can result in delays or protest.