Who qualifies for small business set-asides?

To qualify, a business must meet the Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards based on its NAICS code and be independently owned and operated. Specific programs also require additional certifications, such as the 8(a) Business Development Program.

What are the different types of set-asides?

Common set-asides include Small Business Set-Asides, Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Set-Asides, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Set-Asides, and HUBZone Set-Asides. Each has unique eligibility requirements.

How do I apply for a set-aside program?

To apply, businesses must register in the System for Award Management (SAM), obtain a UEI number, and, for some programs, complete certifications through SBA or other relevant agencies.

Are there mandatory set-aside thresholds?

Yes, federal agencies are required to set aside contracts for small businesses if the value is between $10,000 and $250,000, provided there are at least two capable small businesses that can perform the work.

Can a business qualify for multiple set-aside programs?

Yes, businesses can qualify for multiple programs, such as being both a HUBZone-certified business and a Women-Owned Small Business, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria for each.

What happens if my business outgrows the small business size standard?

If your business outgrows the size standard, you may no longer qualify for small business set-asides but can pursue other contracting opportunities. Transition support is available through programs like the SBA's All Small Mentor-Protégé Program.

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How to Find the Right Set-Aside Programs

A step-by-step approach to identifying and pursuing the set-aside opportunities that best match your business.

Determine Eligibility

First, assess which set-aside programs your business qualifies for. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides the official criteria for all programs, including 8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, and HUBZone.

View SBA Requirements

Complete the Certification Process

Once you confirm your eligibility, you must complete the formal certification process. This is done directly through the SBA's online portals to gain access to exclusive set-aside opportunities.

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After certification, manually searching across multiple portals can be time-consuming. Using a centralized platform helps you quickly find relevant RFPs by aggregating and filtering contracts based on your specific certifications and services.

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Why Set-Asides Matter

87%

Revenue Growth

within 2 years

3.2x

Contract Value

average growth

65%

Success Rate

transition to full competition

Types of Set-Asides

Find the set-aside programs that match your business profile

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)

FAR 19.5

Total Small Business Set-Aside

Most common type of set-aside

No additional certifications required beyond small business status

Learn more about eligibility

Partial Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)

FAR 19.5

Partial Small Business Set-Aside

Allows for mixed competition on large contracts

Small businesses compete for designated portions

Learn more about eligibility

8(a) Set-Aside (FAR 19.8)

FAR 19.8

9-year program with developmental stages

Includes business development assistance

Learn more about eligibility

8(a) Sole Source (FAR 19.8)

FAR 19.8

No competition required for qualifying contracts

Dollar thresholds apply ($4.5M for manufacturing, $7M for other)

Learn more about eligibility

Historically Underutilized Business (HUBZone) Set-Aside (FAR 19.13)

FAR 19.13

Historically Underutilized Business

Must be located in designated HUBZone area

35% of employees must live in HUBZone

Learn more about eligibility

Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Set-Aside (FAR 19.14)

FAR 19.14

Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business

Must be owned by service-disabled veteran(s)

Veteran must control day-to-day operations

Learn more about eligibility

Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Sole Source (FAR 19.14)

FAR 19.14

Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business

No competition for qualifying contracts

Dollar thresholds and fair market price requirements

Learn more about eligibility

Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program Set-Aside (FAR 19.15)

FAR 19.15

Women-Owned Small Business

Must be at least 51% owned by women

Women must control day-to-day operations

Learn more about eligibility

Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Program Sole Source (FAR 19.15)

FAR 19.15

Women-Owned Small Business

Direct awards without competition

Contracts must not exceed specific dollar thresholds

Learn more about eligibility

Economically Disadvantaged WOSB (EDWOSB) Program Set-Aside (FAR 19.15)

FAR 19.15

Economically Disadvantaged WOSB

Must meet WOSB requirements

Owners must demonstrate economic disadvantage

Learn more about eligibility

Local Area Set-Aside (FAR 26.2)

FAR 26.2

Local Area Set-Aside

Promotes local economic recovery

Encourages participation from local businesses in disaster response

Learn more about eligibility

Set-Aside FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Contract set-asides are government procurement opportunities reserved for specific groups, such as small businesses, women-owned businesses, or veteran-owned businesses, to promote diversity and inclusivity in federal contracting.

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