18.117
Awards to economically disadvantaged women-owned small business concerns and women-owned small business concerns eligible under the Women-Owned Small Business Program
FAR 18.117 allows agencies to award contracts to eligible women-owned small businesses on a competitive or sole source basis, provided they comply with WOSB Program requirements.
Overview
FAR 18.117 authorizes contracting officers to award contracts to economically disadvantaged women-owned small business (EDWOSB) concerns and women-owned small business (WOSB) concerns eligible under the Women-Owned Small Business Program. These awards can be made either competitively or on a sole source basis, providing agencies with flexibility to support women-owned businesses, especially in urgent or flexible acquisition scenarios. The section references FAR Subpart 19.15 for detailed procedures and eligibility requirements, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the WOSB Program's rules and documentation standards.
Key Rules
- Eligibility for Awards
- Contracts may be awarded to EDWOSB and WOSB concerns that meet the eligibility criteria under the WOSB Program.
- Award Methods
- Awards can be made on a competitive or sole source basis, depending on the circumstances and acquisition needs.
- Reference to Subpart 19.15
- Contracting officers must follow the detailed procedures and requirements outlined in FAR Subpart 19.15 for WOSB Program awards.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must verify eligibility of EDWOSB and WOSB concerns, determine appropriate award method, and ensure compliance with Subpart 19.15.
- Contractors: Must maintain eligibility under the WOSB Program and provide required documentation.
- Agencies: Should monitor and report on WOSB/EDWOSB awards as required by agency policy and federal reporting standards.
Practical Implications
- This section enables agencies to quickly and flexibly support women-owned small businesses, especially during urgent or streamlined acquisitions.
- Contractors must ensure their WOSB/EDWOSB status is current and properly documented to be eligible for these awards.
- Common pitfalls include failure to verify eligibility or improper documentation, which can result in ineligibility or protest.