There’s a persistent myth about government contracting: “Government Contracts are fixed and only the big dogs get the work.” This misnomer has deterred many small businesses from exploring government contracting opportunities, fearing that their efforts would be in vain. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In this article, we’ll debunk this myth and shed light on how government contracting isn’t just for the “big dogs”, but is, in fact, a welcoming ecosystem for small businesses.

Government’s Commitment to Small Businesses

The U.S. federal government recognizes the value and economic significance of small businesses. To foster their growth and facilitate their participation in government contracts, there are “set-aside” contracts specifically designed for certified small entities. These contracts are called so because a portion of federal contracting funds is “set aside” exclusively for small businesses.

As per the latest available data, the federal government aims to allocate approximately 23% of all federal contracting dollars to small businesses annually. This is no small feat, given that federal contracting represents a multi-billion-dollar industry.

Set-Aside Contracts: Leveling the Playing Field

One might ask, “Why set-aside contracts?” The answer is simple: to level the playing field. These contracts ensure that small businesses, which may not have the resources or experience of their larger counterparts, get a fair shot at government work. By ensuring a specific percentage of contracts are designated for smaller entities, set-asides reduce competition from larger companies for these contracts.

Moreover, securing and successfully completing a set-aside contract allows a small business to build its “past performance.” In the world of government contracting, past performance can be a golden ticket. It showcases your company’s ability to handle projects and serves as a testament to its reliability and efficiency. Over time, this can open doors to bigger contract opportunities.

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Collaborating with the Giants

If you’re a small business, subcontracting with a larger, established prime contractor can also be a strategic move. This can provide invaluable experience, mentorship, and opportunities to participate in contracts that might be challenging to secure independently. Think of it as a symbiotic relationship: the larger firm benefits from the niche, specialized services or products that the smaller business provides, and the smaller business gains exposure, experience, and a foot in the door of the government contracting realm.

FedBiz Access: Your Partner in Navigating Government Contracts

While the opportunities are vast, the journey of securing government contracts can be intricate. This is where FedBiz Access steps in. Recognized as a leading government business development firm, FedBiz Access provides expert guidance to businesses, both big and small, navigating the maze of government contracts.

Whether you’re aiming for set-aside contracts and/or certifications like WOSB/WBE (Women-Owned Small Business/Women Business Enterprise), MBE (Minority Business Enterprise), (SD)VOSB (Service Disasbled/Veteran-Owned Small Business), 8(a), DBE (Disabled Business Enterprise), or HUBZone, FedBiz Access can expedite the certification process and provide the insights needed to position your business favorably.

In government contracting the sky’s the limit, not just for the “big dogs” but for every diligent business, regardless of its size. The myth that only the big players benefit is just that—a myth. With set-aside contracts, valuable partnerships, and expert guidance from firms like FedBiz Access, small businesses are not only participants in this domain but are becoming formidable contenders.

Don’t let myths hold back the potential of your business. Dive into the world of government contracting, and with the right strategies and partners, you too can make a mark. Small dogs often grow up to be “Big Dogs”, too!

Need help in the government marketplace? Schedule a complimentary consultation with a FedBiz Specialist.