6.207
Set-asides for economically disadvantaged women-owned small business (EDWOSB) concerns or women-owned small business (WOSB) concerns eligible under the WOSB Program
Contracting officers can set aside contracts for EDWOSB or eligible WOSB concerns without additional justification, streamlining access for these businesses.
Overview
FAR 6.207 allows contracting officers to set aside certain federal contract solicitations exclusively for economically disadvantaged women-owned small businesses (EDWOSBs) or women-owned small businesses (WOSBs) eligible under the WOSB Program, in accordance with 15 U.S.C. 637(m). This provision supports statutory requirements to promote contracting opportunities for these businesses. Importantly, contracting officers do not need to prepare a separate justification or determination and findings (D&F) under FAR Part 6 when making such set-asides, streamlining the process for these specific procurements. Reference to FAR 19.1505 provides further procedural guidance for implementing these set-asides.
Key Rules
- Set-Asides for EDWOSB and WOSB Concerns
- Contracting officers may reserve solicitations exclusively for EDWOSB or eligible WOSB concerns to meet statutory requirements.
- No Additional Justification Required
- No separate justification or D&F is needed under FAR Part 6 for these set-asides, simplifying the administrative process.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Identify opportunities and set aside solicitations for EDWOSB or eligible WOSB concerns as appropriate; follow procedures in FAR 19.1505.
- Contractors: Ensure eligibility and proper certification under the WOSB Program to compete for these set-asides.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with statutory requirements and ensure proper use of set-asides.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to facilitate federal contracting opportunities for EDWOSB and eligible WOSB concerns, supporting diversity and statutory goals.
- It streamlines the process by removing the need for additional justifications, reducing administrative burden.
- Contractors must ensure they are properly certified to benefit from these set-asides, and contracting officers must be familiar with eligibility and procedural requirements.