Subpart 19.14
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Program
FAR Subpart 19.14 provides the framework for increasing federal contracting opportunities for service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses through set-asides, sole source awards, and specific eligibility requirements.
Overview
FAR Subpart 19.14 establishes the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Program, outlining the policies and procedures for promoting contracting opportunities for SDVOSBs in federal procurement. This subpart details eligibility requirements, status verification, exclusions, set-aside and sole source award procedures, and the necessary contract clauses to ensure compliance. The program aims to increase federal contracting participation by SDVOSBs, supporting veteran entrepreneurship and meeting statutory goals for small business utilization.
Key Rules
- General (19.1401)
- Introduces the SDVOSB Program and its purpose within federal contracting.
- Applicability (19.1402)
- Specifies when and to which contracts the SDVOSB Program applies.
- Status (19.1403)
- Defines the criteria for SDVOSB status, including ownership, control, and verification requirements.
- Exclusions (19.1404)
- Lists contract types and situations excluded from SDVOSB program consideration.
- Set-aside Procedures (19.1405)
- Details how and when contracting officers must set aside acquisitions for SDVOSBs.
- Sole Source Awards (19.1406)
- Outlines conditions under which sole source awards may be made to SDVOSBs.
- Contract Clauses (19.1408)
- Identifies mandatory clauses to include in SDVOSB contracts.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must determine eligibility, apply set-aside or sole source procedures, and include required clauses.
- Contractors: Must meet SDVOSB eligibility, maintain status, and comply with contract requirements.
- Agencies: Oversee program implementation and ensure statutory goals are met.
Practical Implications
- The SDVOSB Program provides targeted opportunities for veteran-owned businesses, requiring careful eligibility verification and compliance with set-aside/sole source rules. Contractors must ensure their status is current and accurate, while contracting officers must follow specific procedures to maximize SDVOSB participation. Common pitfalls include improper status claims and failure to use correct clauses or procedures.