General
The SBA's Certificate of Competency program ensures small businesses are fairly evaluated for responsibility in government contracting, requiring contracting officers to refer nonresponsibility determinations for possible SBA review.
Overview
FAR 19.601 outlines the general principles and requirements of the Certificate of Competency (COC) program, which allows the Small Business Administration (SBA) to certify the responsibility of small businesses for specific government contracts. The COC serves as proof that a small business is capable and responsible in all relevant aspects, such as capability, capacity, credit, and compliance with subcontracting limitations. The program applies to all government acquisitions except 8(a) sole-source awards. If a contracting officer finds a small business nonresponsible, the case must be referred to the SBA for possible COC issuance. The regulation also clarifies how limitations on subcontracting and nonmanufacturer rules are handled within the COC process. Contracting officers, including those overseas, must comply with these requirements for U.S. small businesses. For unrestricted acquisitions, small business nonmanufacturers may supply items produced in the U.S. or its outlying areas.