Kris Manning

Kris Manning serves as Office Manager at the University of South Florida Small Business Development Center, where they play a pivotal role in facilitating procurement support for small businesses seeking federal and state contracting opportunities. While not a contracting officer themselves, Manning acts as a critical liaison between small business owners and government acquisition systems, guiding clients through the complexities of bid preparation, compliance, and contract execution. Their work directly supports the mission of expanding small business participation in public sector markets by ensuring entrepreneurs understand procurement requirements, certification pathways, and contract performance standards. Manning typically handles advisory-level acquisitions related to professional services, administrative support, and technical consulting, often coordinating with state and federal agencies to align small business capabilities with agency needs. Manning does not award contracts directly but cultivates strong partnerships with a broad network of small business consultants, legal advisors, accounting firms, and business development specialists who assist clients in preparing competitive proposals. These vendor partnerships are primarily service-based and focused on capacity-building rather than direct procurement. The working relationship pattern is collaborative and educational, centered on empowering small businesses to become contract-ready through training, mentorship, and resource navigation. Manning’s procurement guidance consistently prioritizes non-set-aside opportunities, with 100% of recommended contracts structured as open competitions. This reflects a strategic emphasis on preparing small businesses to compete on equal footing in the broader marketplace, rather than relying on socioeconomic preferences. While 8(a), HUBZone, and SDVOSB certifications are discussed as potential tools, the focus remains on building sustainable, competitive businesses capable of winning unrestricted awards. The primary NAICS focus is 541990 (All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services), encompassing management consulting, technical writing, research services, and business process support. A secondary focus on 921190 (Other General Government Support) includes administrative, logistical, and program coordination services. Manning’s expertise lies in helping small firms position themselves as capable providers of non-technical, high-value professional services to public sector clients.