Agencies may suddenly need generators, temporary facilities, bottled water, transportation, debris removal, communications support, construction crews, interpreters, security services, and dozens of other capabilities. The opportunity can look enormous from the outside, which is why contractors often begin searching for “FEMA contracts” as soon as a disaster reaches the news.

By then, however, much of the positioning work has already happened.

Emergency response contracting favors businesses that are registered, visible, financially prepared, operationally realistic, and able to communicate exactly what they can deliver. It is less about racing toward a disaster and more about being ready when a legitimate requirement reaches the market.

Quick Answer

FEMA supports disaster response through several contracting channels. The agency awards contracts directly, uses advance contracts established before disasters occur, and provides funding that state, tribal, territorial, and local governments may use for their own procurements.

Emergency acquisition rules can shorten timelines and give contracting officers additional flexibility, but they do not eliminate the need for capable, responsible vendors. Contractors still need accurate registrations, relevant capabilities, competitive pricing, available resources, and a credible delivery plan.

Key Takeaways

• Not every contract associated with FEMA funding is awarded by FEMA.
• FEMA uses advance contracts to establish sources before major disasters are declared.
• Emergency acquisition flexibilities can reduce notice periods and limit competition when urgency requires it.
• Contracting officers consult the Disaster Response Registry when researching vendors for domestic disaster relief work.
• Local businesses may receive preference for certain work performed within a declared disaster area.
• A FEMA vendor profile supports market research but does not place a company on a preferred vendor list.
• Emergency response should complement a broader federal contracting strategy, not replace one.

“FEMA Work” Can Mean Three Different Things

One of the most important distinctions for contractors is that disaster-related purchasing does not flow through a single FEMA contracting office.

1. Direct FEMA Contracts

FEMA directly purchases products and services needed to carry out its mission. These opportunities may be posted through SAM.gov, competed through an existing contract vehicle, issued under a blanket purchase agreement, or handled through another authorized acquisition method.

FEMA’s commonly purchased disaster-support requirements include leased generators, office supplies, portable toilets, copiers, accessibility services, logistics support, temporary facilities, and other operational necessities. The exact mix changes according to the disaster, geographic conditions, infrastructure damage, and response stage.

2. FEMA Advance Contracts

FEMA does not wait for every storm, fire, or flood to begin before establishing supply sources. The agency competes and awards advance contracts before major disaster declarations so that essential goods and services can be ordered more efficiently when an event occurs.

For contractors, advance contracts are a reminder that the best emergency opportunity may appear during an otherwise quiet part of the year. A solicitation released months before hurricane season can be more strategically valuable than an urgent notice posted after landfall.

These vehicles also show why consistent market monitoring matters. A company watching only active disaster headlines may miss the procurement that positions vendors for several years of response activity.

3. State and Local Contracts Supported by FEMA Funding

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to eligible state, tribal, territorial, and local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations. Those recipients may then contract for repairs, debris removal, emergency protective measures, equipment, construction, and other eligible work.

In those situations, the contractor’s customer may be a county, city, public authority, tribal government, utility, school district, or nonprofit facility rather than FEMA itself.

Recipients and subrecipients purchasing with FEMA award funds must comply with applicable federal procurement requirements, including rules found in 2 C.F.R. Part 200. They may also have state and local purchasing requirements.

This creates a broader market than many federal contractors realize. Monitoring SAM.gov alone will not reveal every disaster recovery opportunity. Contractors may also need to track state procurement systems, county bid portals, municipal solicitations, cooperative purchasing vehicles, and prime contractors assembling response teams.

How Emergency Acquisition Changes the Buying Process

Federal emergency procurement is faster, but it is not a free-for-all.

FAR Part 18 identifies acquisition flexibilities that contracting officers may use under qualifying conditions. Depending on the requirement, agencies may limit the number of sources, shorten or omit certain notices, use oral requests for proposals, solicit from a single source for some purchases, issue letter contracts when performance must begin immediately, or place orders through existing schedules, blanket purchase agreements, and indefinite-delivery contracts. These flexibilities help explain why some emergency requirements seem to appear and disappear unusually quickly. A contractor may have hours or days to confirm inventory, arrange transportation, price the requirement, verify insurance, and accept demanding delivery terms.

Speed does not mean the government stops evaluating risk. In fact, the consequences of contractor failure can be greater during an emergency. A vendor promising 200 generators that it cannot source is not merely late on an ordinary delivery. It may disrupt shelter operations, medical support, communications, or community recovery.

Contractors should bid according to verified capacity, not optimistic capacity. This is not the time for “we will figure it out after award” pricing.

Why the Disaster Response Registry Matters

SAM.gov includes a Disaster Response Registry for contractors willing to provide debris removal, supply distribution, reconstruction, and other emergency relief products or services.

Federal contracting officers must consult the registry when determining the availability of contractors for disaster or emergency relief activities within the United States and its outlying areas. Businesses must have a complete SAM registration, select participation in the registry, and provide the requested disaster response information. egistry does not guarantee that FEMA will contact your company. It does make your business searchable during market research, which matters when acquisition teams are working against compressed timelines.

Your record should help a buyer answer practical questions quickly:

Can the company perform in the affected area? Does it have relevant equipment? How far can it mobilize? Does it require bonding? Which NAICS codes apply? Is the company small under the applicable size standard? Does its description match the requirement?

A vague profile that says a company can provide “all disaster services nationwide” is unlikely to inspire confidence. Specificity is more useful than ambition.

Local Businesses Can Have an Advantage

When the President issues an emergency or major disaster declaration under the Stafford Act, contracting officers give preference to local organizations, firms, and individuals for certain disaster assistance activities. That preference may be implemented through a local-area set-aside or an evaluation preference. The contracting officer may also consider restricting a local-area set-aside further for qualifying small businesses. tor located in or near a disaster-prone region, local knowledge can become a legitimate competitive strength. Familiarity with roads, disposal facilities, permitting offices, subcontractors, labor conditions, utility systems, and regional suppliers can reduce mobilization risk.

Being local is not enough by itself. The company still needs the personnel, equipment, pricing discipline, safety systems, documentation, and financial capacity to perform.

A local preference is an acquisition tool, not a rescue plan for an unprepared vendor.

The FEMA Vendor Profile Is Not a Contract Registration

FEMA’s Industry Liaison Program accepts vendor profiles to support market research and communication with industry. The profile can help FEMA understand available commercial capabilities, but it is not a registration to contract with the agency and does not create preference for an award. tes that it does not maintain a preferred vendor list. Meeting with a FEMA representative or submitting company information does not guarantee a contract. ea where contractors sometimes lose valuable time. They submit a form, receive an acknowledgment, and assume they are now “on FEMA’s list.” Meanwhile, their SAM registration is incomplete, their capability statement is generic, and they are not monitoring actual procurement channels.

The vendor profile can support visibility, but it should be one piece of a larger capture plan.

How to Prepare Before the Emergency

A realistic FEMA contracting readiness plan should address five areas.

First, maintain an active and accurate SAM.gov registration. Confirm that your legal business information, banking details, representations, NAICS codes, points of contact, and small business information remain current.

Second, review your Disaster Response Registry information. State exactly where you can perform, what you can provide, whether bonding is required, and how rapidly you can mobilize.

Third, build a disaster-specific capability package. A contracting officer evaluating debris removal needs different information than one buying temporary housing or language services. Include relevant equipment, geographic coverage, surge capacity, licenses, safety performance, past projects, subcontractor relationships, and delivery limitations.

Fourth, map the buyers. Depending on your offering, that may include FEMA, other DHS components, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Forest Service, state emergency management agencies, transportation departments, counties, municipalities, utilities, and established disaster-response prime contractors.

Finally, pressure-test your operations. Know how much working capital you can deploy, how quickly you can add labor, where equipment will come from, what insurance applies, and how severe weather could affect transportation. Emergency contracting can create significant revenue, but it can also expose weak cash flow and fragile supplier relationships very quickly.

Do Not Build a Strategy Around the Disaster Headline

The most common misconception about FEMA contracting is that the opportunity begins when the emergency begins.

In reality, serious contractors prepare during normal conditions. They study historical buying patterns, identify likely customers, track advance contracts, build local partnerships, maintain registrations, and decide in advance which requirements they should pursue.

That last point matters. Not every emergency solicitation is a good opportunity.

A contract can be technically winnable and still be operationally dangerous. Remote delivery locations, fuel costs, uncertain quantities, short payment cycles, bonding requirements, labor shortages, and rapidly changing site conditions can turn an exciting award into a cash-flow problem.

The objective is not to chase every disaster requirement. It is to recognize the opportunities where your company can perform reliably while protecting both the mission and your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to register separately with FEMA?

There is no general “FEMA certification” that guarantees eligibility for contracts. Businesses pursuing direct federal awards should maintain an active SAM.gov registration. They may also submit a FEMA Industry Liaison Program vendor profile and elect to participate in the Disaster Response Registry, but those steps do not guarantee an award.

Does FEMA award all disaster cleanup contracts?

No. FEMA may award some contracts directly, while state, local, tribal, territorial, and nonprofit entities may conduct separate procurements using FEMA assistance. Contractors should identify the actual buying organization before developing their capture strategy.

Can FEMA issue a contract without posting a normal solicitation?

Emergency acquisition flexibilities may allow agencies to limit competition, shorten procedures, omit certain notices, or use other streamlined methods when the applicable conditions are met. Contractors should not assume every disaster requirement will remain publicly available for a normal proposal period.

Is FEMA contracting a good entry point for a new federal contractor?

It can create opportunities, particularly for capable local businesses, but it is not an easy shortcut into government contracting. New contractors are usually better served by building a stable federal foundation and treating emergency response as one potential market within a broader strategy.

Build Readiness Before the Requirement Arrives

Emergency contracting moves quickly because communities cannot wait. The government needs contractors that can convert a requirement into dependable performance without unnecessary delay, confusion, or drama.

That level of readiness is built well before the weather warning, evacuation order, or disaster declaration.

FedBiz Access helps small businesses strengthen their federal registrations, improve market visibility, identify relevant buyers, and develop a more disciplined opportunity strategy. For contractors evaluating FEMA, disaster recovery, or other federal markets, FedBiz365 provides AI-powered government contracting market intelligence to help uncover buying patterns and focus capture resources where they have the strongest potential.

Request a FedBiz365 demo and start building your emergency response market strategy before the next requirement hits SAM.gov.

Have questions about how to compete for FEMA contracts? Call now: 844-628-8914

The post FEMA Contracting Explained: How Federal Disaster Response Buying Actually Works appeared first on FedBiz Access.

For many companies, navigating the government contracting process without guidance can lead to missed opportunities or costly mistakes. The requirements involved are often highly specific, and even small errors in documentation or submission can impact eligibility. By working with professionals who understand the process, businesses can better position themselves for success while avoiding common pitfalls. Accessing help with government contracts allows organizations to focus on their core services while ensuring that their applications and proposals meet all necessary standards. It also helps streamline internal workflows by reducing the time spent trying to interpret complex requirements without clear direction.

According to the Small Business Administration, the federal government sets a goal to award at least 23% of all prime contract dollars to small businesses each year, demonstrating the significant opportunities available for companies prepared to compete in this space. This commitment highlights the importance of proper preparation and strategic positioning. Businesses that understand how to navigate the system are better equipped to take advantage of these opportunities and secure valuable contracts. With the right support, companies can approach the process with greater confidence and clarity from the start.

We’ve seen how the right support can make a meaningful difference in navigating the complexities of federal contracting. Here are six key reasons why getting help with government contracts is vital for long-term success.

Understanding Registration and Compliance Requirements

Navigating Federal Registration Systems

One of the first steps in pursuing government work is completing the required registrations, such as SAM.GOV. These systems require accurate and detailed information, and errors can delay or prevent approval. Businesses that seek help with government contracts can ensure that registration is completed correctly and efficiently. Proper setup also lays the foundation for future opportunities, making it easier to respond quickly when relevant contracts become available.

Meeting Regulatory Standards

Government contracts are governed by strict regulations that must be followed at every stage. Understanding these requirements is essential for maintaining eligibility and avoiding compliance issues. Professional guidance helps businesses stay aligned with these standards and reduces uncertainty when navigating unfamiliar processes.

Maintaining Updated Information

Registration is not a one-time process. Information must be regularly updated to remain active and compliant. Ongoing support ensures that profiles remain accurate and up to date, preventing interruptions that could affect contract eligibility or visibility in the system.

Reducing Risk of Errors

Even minor mistakes can create delays or disqualifications. Having experienced support reduces the likelihood of errors and helps streamline the process. This attention to detail can make a meaningful difference when competing for time-sensitive opportunities.

Identifying the Right Contract Opportunities

Analyzing Market Opportunities

The federal marketplace includes a wide range of contract opportunities across industries. Identifying the right fit requires a clear understanding of both capabilities and demand. Businesses that seek help with government contracts can better align their services with available opportunities and focus on areas where they are most competitive.

Matching Capabilities to Requirements

Not every contract is suitable for every business. Evaluating requirements and determining alignment is essential for successful bidding. Professional support helps identify opportunities that match a company’s strengths and long-term goals.

Monitoring Relevant Listings

Opportunities are frequently updated, and staying informed requires consistent monitoring. This process can be time-consuming without dedicated resources. With proper support, businesses can stay informed without diverting attention from their core operations.

Improving Strategic Positioning

Understanding which opportunities to pursue helps businesses focus their efforts more effectively, increasing the likelihood of success. A targeted approach allows for better allocation of time and resources.

Developing Competitive and Compliant Proposals

Understanding Proposal Requirements

Government proposals must meet specific formatting and content guidelines. Missing or incomplete information can result in disqualification. Accessing help with government contracts ensures that proposals meet all requirements and are submitted in a professional format.

Presenting Clear Value Propositions

Successful proposals clearly demonstrate how a business meets the needs of the agency. This requires a strong understanding of both the project and the evaluation criteria. Clear communication helps decision-makers quickly understand the value being offered.

Ensuring Accurate Documentation

Supporting documents must be complete and accurate. Errors or inconsistencies can impact credibility and reduce the chances of success. Careful preparation ensures that all required materials are aligned and properly presented.

Enhancing Proposal Quality

Well-structured proposals improve readability and demonstrate professionalism. This can make a meaningful difference during the evaluation process and help businesses stand out among competitors.

Navigating the Competitive Bidding Process

Understanding Evaluation Criteria

Government agencies use specific criteria to evaluate proposals. Understanding these factors helps businesses tailor their submissions more effectively. Companies that seek help with government contracts gain valuable insight into how proposals are assessed and how to align with expectations.

Managing Submission Deadlines

Timeliness is critical in the bidding process. Missing a deadline can eliminate an opportunity entirely. Professional support helps ensure that submissions are completed on time and meet all required milestones.

Addressing Questions and Clarifications

During the bidding process, agencies may request additional information or clarification. Responding accurately and promptly is essential. Having structured support helps ensure that these communications are handled efficiently.

Maintaining Competitive Positioning

Understanding how to differentiate a proposal from competitors is key to success. Strategic guidance helps businesses present their strengths effectively while aligning with agency priorities.

Supporting Long-Term Contract Management

Understanding Contract Obligations

Winning a contract is only the beginning. Businesses must meet ongoing requirements throughout the contract period. Accessing help with government contracts ensures that obligations are clearly understood and consistently met.

Maintaining Compliance Throughout the Project

Compliance does not end after the contract is awarded. Ongoing adherence to regulations is essential for maintaining good standing. Regular oversight helps prevent issues that could affect future opportunities.

Managing Reporting Requirements

Many contracts require regular reporting and documentation. Keeping track of these requirements can be challenging without proper systems in place. Structured support simplifies this process and ensures consistency.

Ensuring Consistent Performance

Meeting expectations consistently helps build a strong reputation within the federal marketplace, leading to future opportunities. Reliable performance can open the door to repeat contracts and long-term partnerships.

Maximizing Growth and Business Opportunities

Expanding Into New Markets

Government contracts provide access to a wide range of industries and projects. Businesses that seek help with government contracts can explore new opportunities for growth and diversification.

Building Long-Term Relationships

Successful contract performance can lead to repeat business and long-term partnerships with government agencies. These relationships can become a valuable part of a company’s growth strategy.

Strengthening Business Credibility

Working with government agencies enhances a company’s reputation and demonstrates reliability and professionalism. This credibility can extend beyond federal work into other areas of business.

Supporting Sustainable Growth

Consistent access to government work can provide stable revenue and support long-term business development. This stability allows businesses to plan more effectively for future expansion.

Pursuing government contracts offers significant opportunities, but the process requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of requirements. From registration and proposal development to compliance and long-term management, each step plays a critical role in achieving success. Businesses that seek help with government contracts are better equipped to navigate these complexities and position themselves for growth. With the right approach, the federal marketplace can become a reliable and rewarding source of business development.

By leveraging professional support, companies can reduce risks, improve efficiency, and increase their chances of securing valuable contracts. This approach allows businesses to focus on delivering their services while ensuring that all aspects of the contracting process are handled effectively. It also creates a more streamlined path toward long-term participation in government opportunities.

If you’re ready to explore new opportunities and strengthen your position in the federal marketplace, contact FedBiz Access today to get expert help with government contracts and take the next step toward long-term business success.

The post Why Getting Help With Government Contracts Is Vital appeared first on FedBiz Access.

People are taking vacations. Inbox replies get slower. Agency contacts may be harder to pin down. It can feel like the federal market is catching its breath before the fall.

That impression is misleading.

For small business contractors, July is the beginning of one of the most important stretches of the federal sales calendar. The federal government’s fiscal year runs from October 1 through September 30, which means FY2027 begins on October 1, 2026. As of July 9, that date is less than 90 days away.

That matters because July opens the final quarter of the federal fiscal year. In practical terms, this is the season when agencies are reviewing remaining funds, moving requirements forward, addressing mission needs, and trying to get obligations in place before September 30. Contractors often call it “use-it-or-lose-it season,” which is not a perfect phrase, but it captures the urgency many federal buyers feel as the fiscal year winds down.

This is not the time to be invisible.

It is the time to get your business in front of the government buyers, program offices, contracting teams, and prime contractors most likely to need what you sell.

Year-End Spending Is Not Random, But It Is Urgent

There is a common misconception that federal year-end spending is a free-for-all, as if agencies suddenly start buying anything that can be squeezed onto a purchase order before midnight on September 30.

That is not how it works.

Federal buyers still operate under acquisition rules, procurement procedures, budget limits, and the bona fide needs rule. GAO’s appropriations law guidance explains that federal funds are tied to legitimate needs during the period for which those funds are available.

In plain English, agencies cannot buy something simply because money is sitting there. There has to be a real need.

But there is still pressure.

Program offices may have requirements that were delayed earlier in the year. Contracting officers may be pushing actions through a crowded pipeline. Managers may be trying to obligate available funds for mission needs that cannot slide into the next fiscal year without creating operational headaches. Buyers may need vendors who can respond quickly, clearly, and credibly.

That is where prepared contractors have an advantage.

Not the ones who wake up in September and send a generic capability statement to every address they can find. Not the ones who describe themselves as “full-service solutions providers” and hope the buyer figures out what that means. Prepared contractors know who buys their services, where they fit, what problem they solve, and how to make the buyer’s next step easier.

July is when that preparation starts paying off.

January Goals Are Too Late for Federal Contractors

Many businesses treat January as the natural time to set goals. That makes sense for commercial planning, but federal contracting runs on a different clock.

By January, the federal government is already three months into its fiscal year. The first quarter is over. Acquisition planning is already underway. Some opportunities have already moved. Some teaming conversations have already happened. Some buyers have already formed opinions about which vendors are serious and which ones only appear when a solicitation drops.

That does not mean January is useless. It does mean January is often too late to shape the early part of your federal pipeline.

The planning window is now.

July gives contractors a chance to influence the final quarter of the current fiscal year while also positioning for the first quarter of FY2027. That dual timing is important. Smart outreach now can support immediate year-end opportunities, but it can also help your business become familiar to buyers and primes before new fiscal year activity accelerates.

In other words, July is not just about chasing September spending. It is about building momentum before your competitors start making their New Year’s resolutions.

First, Be Clear About the Kind of Win You Need

Most contractors say they want more federal business. That is understandable, but it is not specific enough to guide decisions.

A better question is: what kind of federal contracting win matters most right now?

For some companies, the priority is growth. They want more revenue, a larger contract, a first federal award, or expansion into a new agency. If that is your situation, July should be focused on identifying buyers with a demonstrated need for your category, tightening your outreach, and making sure you are visible before year-end decisions are made.

For others, the priority is positioning. Maybe you have commercial experience but limited federal past performance. Maybe you are trying to become known in a new NAICS market. Maybe you need primes to see you as a credible subcontracting partner. If positioning is the goal, your July activity should focus on credibility, not volume. The right message to the right buyer is more valuable than a hundred forgettable emails.

For established contractors, the priority may be stability. That can mean defending existing work, preparing for recompetes, protecting contract vehicle eligibility, maintaining visibility with current agencies, or reducing gaps in the pipeline. Stability is not passive. It requires deliberate relationship management and early awareness of what may be coming next.

Most businesses want all three: growth, positioning, and stability. The problem is that when everything is the priority, nothing really leads. Naming the primary objective helps you decide where to spend your limited time during the most compressed part of the federal buying year.

Visibility Is a Strategy, Not a Side Task

Federal buyers cannot consider you if they do not know you exist.

That sounds obvious, but it is one of the most common problems small business contractors face. They may be registered properly. They may have strong past performance. They may hold relevant certifications. They may even have a great service offering. Yet the buyers who need those services are hearing from someone else.

Visibility in the federal market is not about being louder. It is about being more relevant.

A contracting officer does not need a vague introduction. A program manager does not need three paragraphs about your company culture. A prime contractor does not need a generic “we would love to team” message with no explanation of where you add value.

They need to know what you do, why it matters to their mission, where you have performed similar work, and how to engage with you.

That message should change depending on the audience. A buyer at a civilian agency may care about responsiveness, compliance, continuity, and low performance risk. A defense customer may care about technical capability, security requirements, scalability, and past work in similar environments. A prime contractor may care about socioeconomic status, labor capacity, geographic coverage, specialized expertise, or filling a gap in a proposal team.

The more specific your outreach, the more likely it is to be treated as useful instead of ignored.

Teaming and Subcontracting Matter More During the Rush

Year-end spending does not only create opportunities for prime contractors. It also creates openings for subcontractors and teaming partners.

Primes are often watching the same fiscal year calendar. They may be preparing bids, responding to task order activity, filling small business participation goals, strengthening technical teams, or looking for qualified partners who can help them pursue agency requirements. For small businesses, that can be a practical path into federal work, especially when prime opportunities are too large, too fast-moving, or outside your current past performance profile.

But teaming does not happen by accident.

A strong subcontracting approach requires knowing which primes are active in your market, what they are likely to need, and how your company can help them win or perform. The message cannot simply be, “We are interested in subcontracting opportunities.” That puts all the work on the other party.

A better approach is to show where you fit.

For example, a cybersecurity firm might emphasize a specific compliance capability, cleared personnel, rapid assessment support, or experience with a particular agency environment. A construction subcontractor might highlight bonding capacity, geographic coverage, specialty trades, safety record, or past federal site experience. A staffing company might focus on surge capacity, hard-to-fill labor categories, or rapid placement in mission-critical roles.

The goal is not just to introduce your company. The goal is to make the recipient think, “This could help us.”

Make July Measurable

A contractor who says, “We need to do more government marketing,” is usually about to lose another month.

A contractor who says, “We need to identify the buyers and teaming partners most relevant to our top services, contact them with a specific message, and follow up consistently before September,” is building a plan.

The difference is specificity.

July goals should be concrete enough to manage. That may mean setting targets for buyer outreach, prime contractor introductions, agency-specific capability statements, follow-up calls, sources sought responses, quote opportunities, or teaming conversations. The exact numbers will vary by business, but the principle is the same: vague intent does not create pipeline.

Federal contracting rewards the companies that treat business development as a discipline. That does not mean chasing every opportunity. It means choosing the right lanes, understanding who buys in those lanes, and taking consistent action before the market gets crowded.

By the time September arrives, many buyers are moving fast. If your first introduction happens then, you may still have a shot, but you are asking the buyer to learn, trust, and act quickly. If they have already seen your company, understood your fit, and had a useful conversation with you earlier in the quarter, you are in a better position.

The Spending Surge Favors Contractors Who Are Already in the Room

Use-it-or-lose-it season can be a major opportunity, but only for contractors who are findable, credible, and relevant.

The federal government is not short on vendors. Buyers and primes are surrounded by companies claiming they can help. The advantage goes to the businesses that can cut through the noise with a clear value proposition and direct access to the right people.

That is where FedBiz Access can help.

FedBiz Access helps small businesses market their services to the government buyers most likely to need what they offer. We can help you identify and reach relevant federal contacts, strengthen your visibility in the market, and connect with teaming or subcontracting partners that may help you take advantage of year-end federal spending activity.

July is the moment to move. Waiting until September means competing in a crowded rush. Waiting until January means starting after FY2027 is already underway.

Call FedBiz Access now: 844-628-8914 or book a call at your convenience to learn how we can help put your business in front of the right government buyers and partners before this year-end spending window closes.

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

The post The Federal Spending Rush Starts Now, Not in September appeared first on FedBiz Access.

Your capture team may have spent weeks discussing solution architecture, pricing strategy, compliance matrices, teaming partners, past performance, and every subtle advantage your company brings to the table. The evaluator, on the other hand, may be moving through a stack of proposals under time pressure, scoring against defined evaluation factors, and looking for one thing above all else: confidence.

Not enthusiasm. Not polish. Not a parade of impressive adjectives.

Confidence.

That is why so many federal proposals lose traction early. They open with language that sounds good in a conference room but means almost nothing to the person responsible for evaluating risk, relevance, and performance. “Innovative.” “Comprehensive.” “Best-in-class.” “Industry-leading.” These words appear so often in government proposals that they become background noise.

The problem is not that contractors lack capability. Many small businesses are exceptionally qualified. The problem is that they often communicate that capability in a way that forces the evaluator to work too hard.

And in federal contracting, making the evaluator work harder is rarely a winning strategy.

Evaluators Are Looking for Proof, Not Personality

Federal source selections are not creative writing contests. Under FAR 15.305, agencies evaluate competitive proposals based on the factors and subfactors stated in the solicitation, including assessments of the offeror’s ability to perform successfully. Past performance, when evaluated, is considered as an indicator of that ability, with attention to relevance, currency, source, context, and performance trends.

That matters because your proposal is not judged by how strongly you believe in your company. It is judged by how clearly you connect your capabilities to the agency’s stated needs and evaluation criteria.

A vague claim such as “we improve operational efficiency” may be true, but it does not give the evaluator much to score. A stronger version would explain what you improved, for whom, by how much, under what conditions, and why that experience matters for this requirement.

The difference is not just style. It is evaluability.

A strong proposal gives the evaluator usable evidence. It says, in effect, “Here is what we did, here is what changed, here is how we know, and here is why it reduces your risk on this contract.”

That is the language of confidence.

Specificity Beats Adjectives Every Time

Many proposal teams use adjectives as shortcuts. They describe a solution as robust, scalable, proactive, seamless, or innovative because they are trying to signal strength quickly. The intent is understandable. The result is usually weak.

Specificity does the job better.

Instead of saying your team brings “deep agency experience,” identify the relevant agency, contract type, mission environment, user population, systems supported, service levels maintained, or measurable outcomes achieved.

Instead of saying your approach is “highly efficient,” explain that your workflow reduced manual review time, shortened response cycles, improved ticket resolution, increased system availability, reduced backlog, or helped a customer meet a statutory deadline.

Instead of saying your staffing plan is “comprehensive,” show how coverage works during surge periods, how vacancies are handled, how key personnel are retained, and how your management structure prevents small issues from becoming contract-level problems.

Evaluators do not need you to tell them you are good. They need you to make it easy to see why choosing you is a safe, smart, mission-aligned decision.

Mission Understanding Is More Than Repeating the Requirement

One of the fastest ways to weaken a proposal is to simply restate the Performance Work Statement in nicer language. Contractors do this all the time. They mirror the requirement, add a few claims about experience, and assume they have demonstrated understanding.

They have not.

Mission understanding means showing that you understand why the work matters.

At DHS, for example, the mission is not abstract. The department describes its role as safeguarding the American people, the homeland, and national values, with responsibilities spanning areas such as aviation security, border security, emergency response, cybersecurity, and chemical facility inspection.

A contractor pursuing DHS work needs to connect its solution to that operational reality. If the requirement involves data modernization, the mission impact may be faster decisions, better threat visibility, or reduced burden on frontline personnel. If the work involves training, the real issue may be readiness, consistency, compliance, or response time. If the work involves facilities, logistics, or administrative support, the mission impact may be continuity, resilience, and fewer distractions for personnel performing critical functions.

The strongest proposals make that connection without overdramatizing it. They show the evaluator that the contractor understands the environment, the pressure points, and the consequences of poor performance.

That is different from saying, “We understand your mission.”

It proves it.

Risk Awareness Builds Trust

Some contractors avoid discussing risk because they fear it will make their proposal look weaker. In reality, thoughtful risk awareness can make a proposal stronger.

Evaluators know risk exists. They know transitions can slip, systems can have data quality issues, incumbent knowledge can be uneven, hiring can take longer than expected, and agency priorities can shift. When a proposal pretends everything will go perfectly, it can sound naïve.

A better approach is to identify realistic risks and pair them with credible mitigation strategies.

For example, if staffing is a likely concern, explain your recruiting pipeline, backup personnel, onboarding timeline, retention practices, and escalation process. If the transition period is tight, show your first 30, 60, and 90 days in practical detail. If the agency environment involves multiple stakeholders, describe how you will manage communication, decision tracking, and issue resolution.

This is not pessimism. It is professionalism.

A contractor who can name the problem and show the mitigation often feels safer than one who simply promises flawless execution.

Past Performance Should Tell a Story, Not Just Fill a Box

Past performance is one of the most underused tools in proposal writing. Too many contractors treat it as a compliance requirement rather than a persuasive asset.

Yes, you need the contract name, customer, dates, scope, value, and relevance. But the real power is in the story of performance.

What was the customer dealing with before you arrived? What constraints shaped the work? What did your team do that mattered? What measurable outcome followed? What lesson carries forward into this opportunity?

A good past performance section does not read like a résumé. It reads like evidence.

For small businesses, this is especially important. You may be competing against larger firms with longer federal track records, but you can still build confidence by showing relevance, responsiveness, agility, and measurable results. A smaller contractor that explains its performance clearly can beat a larger contractor that hides behind generic claims.

The Proposal Outline Is Where Confidence Starts

By the time your team is writing full narrative sections, many of the biggest proposal decisions have already been made. That is why the outline matters so much.

A strong federal proposal outline is not just a table of contents. It is the blueprint for your argument. It should map every requirement to a response, every evaluation factor to proof, every major claim to evidence, and every risk to a mitigation strategy.

Before writing, your team should be able to answer:

What does the agency care about most?

Where do we have the strongest proof?

What weaknesses or risks need to be addressed directly?

Which past performance examples are most relevant?

How will the evaluator know, quickly, that we understand the mission?

This is where many proposals drift. Teams start writing before they have decided what they need the evaluator to believe. The result is usually a proposal that is compliant but not compelling.

Compliance gets you in the game. Confidence helps you win it.

Write for the Evaluator Who Has Less Time Than You Hope

No contractor wants to imagine their proposal being scanned quickly, but it happens. Evaluators may be careful and professional, but they are also human. Dense paragraphs, unsupported claims, buried evidence, and generic introductions make their job harder.

Your proposal should be easy to evaluate on a busy day.

Lead with substance. Use clear headings. Put proof close to the claim. Tie experience directly to the requirement. Avoid filler. Make the mission connection obvious. Show how you will manage risk. Give the evaluator reasons to trust you before they have to hunt for them.

The best proposals do not shout. They demonstrate.

They do not say, “Trust us.”

They make trust the logical conclusion.

Need a Stronger Proposal Outline Before You Write?

Winning starts before the first draft. FedBiz365 helps contractors find the best-fit federal opportunities using an AI-powered scoring system, then prepares a tailored proposal outline in seconds so your team can move from opportunity identification to a focused, evaluator-friendly response faster.

When the right opportunity meets the right outline, your proposal team spends less time guessing and more time building a case the agency can believe in.

Book a FedBiz365 demo today and see how quickly your next winning proposal outline can take shape.

Book a Free Consultation

Book An Appointment

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FedBiz Access4.9

Based on 846 reviews

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

The post Stop Saying “Innovative”: How to Build Federal Proposal Outlines That Win Evaluator Confidence appeared first on FedBiz Access.

The American story has never belonged to one moment, one document, one generation, or one group of people. It has always been carried forward by citizens, service members, public servants, workers, entrepreneurs, families, communities, and businesses that kept showing up when the work needed to be done.

In the federal marketplace, that same story continues every day.

Most Americans do not spend much time thinking about government contracting. They may never see the small manufacturer producing a critical component for a federal agency. They may not know the cybersecurity firm protecting sensitive systems, the logistics provider moving supplies, the construction crew repairing a public facility, the janitorial team keeping federal buildings operational, or the technology company helping an agency modernize an outdated process.

But that work matters.

Behind many public services, military operations, emergency responses, infrastructure projects, research programs, and agency missions are businesses that answered the call. Many of them are small businesses. Many are family-owned, veteran-owned, woman-owned, minority-owned, HUBZone, or locally rooted companies that started with a practical goal: build something useful, serve customers well, and create opportunity.

That is part of the American story too.

Independence Created a Government. Small Businesses Help It Serve.

The National Archives describes the Declaration of Independence as a statement of the principles on which our government and American identity are based. Two hundred fifty years later, those principles still shape how Americans think about opportunity, responsibility, service, and the role of government in public life.

The federal government’s responsibilities have grown in ways the founders could never have imagined. Today, agencies support national defense, public health, transportation, disaster response, cybersecurity, scientific research, energy, agriculture, veterans’ services, law enforcement, housing, education, and thousands of other mission areas.

That work cannot happen through government alone.

It takes suppliers, builders, innovators, tradespeople, consultants, engineers, manufacturers, professional service firms, technology providers, and problem-solvers. It takes businesses willing to navigate SAM.gov registrations, certifications, FAR requirements, solicitations, compliance rules, pricing pressure, agency relationships, and long buying cycles because they believe their work has value in the public sector.

That is not always easy. In fact, it rarely is.

A capable company may have the right experience, the right pricing, and the right team, yet still struggle to get noticed by federal buyers. A business may spend years building past performance before winning its first meaningful federal contract. A contractor may deal with delayed awards, confusing requirements, shifting acquisition strategies, expiring contract vehicles, changing socioeconomic goals, or competitors that seem to know about opportunities long before they appear publicly.

That is the part of government contracting nobody puts on a postcard.

Still, small businesses keep entering the federal marketplace because the opportunity is real, the work is meaningful, and the mission can be worth the patience required to pursue it.

Small Business Is Still One of America’s Strongest Ideas

The United States has more than 36.2 million small businesses, representing 99.9 percent of all U.S. businesses, according to the SBA Office of Advocacy’s 2026 small business FAQ. Those businesses employ 62.3 million people, or 45.9 percent of private-sector workers.

Those numbers are more than statistics. They represent people taking risks. Parents trying to build something durable for their families. Veterans applying discipline and leadership after service. Women founders growing companies in industries where they were once overlooked. Tradespeople turning years of hard-earned skill into ownership. Local employers creating jobs in communities that need them.

Small business remains one of the clearest expressions of American possibility.

That is why small business participation in federal contracting matters so much. The federal government has a statutory goal of awarding at least 23 percent of eligible prime contracting dollars to small businesses each year. In FY2025, SBA reported that agencies exceeded that goal by awarding nearly 28 percent of prime federal contracting dollars to small businesses, representing $179 billion in prime contract awards. Including prime contracts and subcontracts, small businesses received nearly $273 billion in federal contract awards.

That is not just procurement activity.

That is payroll. Equipment. Facilities. Training. New hires. Expanded capacity. Local tax revenue. Second chances. New capabilities. Community impact.

And when the match is right, small businesses also deliver strong value for government buyers.

Small contractors often bring speed, specialization, creativity, and accountability that larger firms may struggle to match. They can solve problems close to the ground. They often have direct access to leadership. They can adapt quickly when requirements shift. They bring niche expertise into mission areas where agencies need fresh thinking, not a 90-page slide deck and a steering committee.

In a country built on enterprise, that matters.

The Work Behind the Celebration

Every Fourth of July, we naturally think about the symbols of freedom: the flag, the anthem, the fireworks, the uniform, the founding documents, the red, white, and blue.

But there is also a quieter kind of patriotism.

It is the business owner reviewing bid requirements late at night because an agency needs support. It is the contractor making sure a delivery arrives on time. It is the veteran-owned company helping another veteran access services. It is the IT provider protecting systems that citizens rely on. It is the construction crew improving a public facility. It is the woman-owned firm earning its place in a competitive marketplace. It is the local business that hires, trains, pays taxes, keeps promises, and helps the government serve the public better.

That kind of contribution may not make headlines. It may not get a float in the parade. But it is deeply connected to the country’s daily life.

America’s 250th anniversary is a celebration of history, but it is also a reminder that the nation is still being built.

It is being built by people who serve in uniform and people who support them.

It is being built by public servants and private-sector partners.

It is being built by large institutions and small companies.

It is being built by those who see a need and step forward.

A Moment to Reflect, and a Moment to Prepare

For small business contractors, this anniversary arrives at an important time.

The federal marketplace is changing. Agencies are modernizing how they buy. Procurement is becoming more data-driven. Contract vehicles, certifications, socioeconomic goals, market research, and early opportunity tracking all matter more than ever.

The businesses that succeed in this environment will not be the ones that wait until an opportunity appears on SAM.gov and then scramble to respond. They will be the ones that prepare early, understand their target agencies, maintain clean registrations and certifications, monitor expiring contracts, track buyer behavior, identify teaming partners, and position themselves before the solicitation arrives.

That preparation is not just a business development exercise. It is how small businesses earn a seat at the table.

And that matters because the next chapter of federal contracting should include more qualified small businesses, not fewer.

It should include the manufacturer with a better component.

The rural contractor with strong local capacity.

The woman-owned firm with specialized expertise.

The service-disabled veteran-owned small business that understands mission from lived experience.

The HUBZone company creating jobs where investment is needed.

The emerging technology firm with a smarter way to solve an old problem.

The next 250 years will require stronger infrastructure, more secure systems, resilient supply chains, modern technology, better data, and contractors who understand both performance and purpose. Small businesses belong in that future.

Celebrating the Country Means Supporting the People Who Build It

At FedBiz Access, we have spent more than 25 years helping businesses enter, understand, and compete in the government marketplace. We have seen the frustration, the confusion, and the patience it takes. We have also seen the pride that comes when a business wins its first contract, expands into a new agency, supports a mission that matters, or realizes that government contracting can become a serious growth channel.

That is why this Independence Day feels especially meaningful.

The 250th anniversary is not only a time to look back at the birth of the nation. It is a time to recognize the people still building it: the small business owners, contractors, workers, veterans, innovators, and families behind the companies that help government serve the public.

Government contracting may not be the first thing people think about on the Fourth of July. But in many ways, it reflects something deeply American: the belief that opportunity should be accessible, that hard work should matter, and that businesses of all sizes can contribute to something larger than themselves.

So this year, as America celebrates 250 years, we celebrate the country, the freedoms we cherish, and the small businesses helping move the mission forward.

Happy Independence Day from all of us at FedBiz Access.

And to the builders, dreamers, workers, and contractors shaping what comes next: your work matters.

If your business is ready to pursue federal opportunities with better strategy, stronger positioning, and clearer market intelligence, FedBiz Access can help. Schedule a consultation or request a demo of FedBiz365, our AI-powered Government Contracting Market Intelligence tool built to help contractors find, track, and act on the right opportunities before the competition is already in motion.

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FedBiz Access4.9

Based on 846 reviews

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

The post America’s 250th Birthday and the Small Businesses That Help Keep It Moving appeared first on FedBiz Access.

The Small Business Administration has reportedly begun auditing economically disadvantaged women-owned small businesses, adding EDWOSB certification status to a broader pattern of increased scrutiny across federal socioeconomic contracting programs. Federal News Network reported that SBA sent EDWOSB firms requests for personal and business tax returns for the last three years as part of a program examination to verify continued eligibility.

For qualified firms, this is not a reason to panic. It is a reason to get organized.

The EDWOSB program still matters. Federal agencies continue to have a governmentwide goal of awarding at least 5 percent of federal contracting dollars to women-owned small businesses each year, and the WOSB Federal Contract program remains a major pathway into set-aside and sole-source opportunities in industries where women-owned firms are underrepresented. But the message from SBA is becoming clearer: certification is not a one-time milestone. It is an ongoing compliance obligation.

Why This Audit Deserves Attention

SBA’s latest review is focused on whether EDWOSB firms continue to meet the economic disadvantage requirements under 13 C.F.R. § 127.203. The same report noted that, so far in fiscal year 2026, EDWOSB awards are down compared with the same period in fiscal years 2024 and 2025. During the first eight months of FY2026, agencies reportedly made 17 EDWOSB awards worth $2.3 million, compared with 35 awards worth $8.7 million during the same period in FY2024 and 29 awards worth $4.7 million during the same period in FY2025.

That decline does not mean the EDWOSB market is disappearing. It does suggest that competition, policy scrutiny, and agency buying behavior are shifting at the same time. That is exactly the kind of environment where documentation gaps can become expensive.

SBA rules already require certified WOSB and EDWOSB firms to undergo a program examination every three years. SBA’s own WOSB program page also states that annual attestation is currently in abeyance, meaning firms do not currently have to submit annual attestations, but the three-year program examination requirement remains in place.

In plain English: even if your certification was approved, renewed, or extended, SBA can still ask you to prove that the facts supporting your eligibility are current and accurate.

What SBA Is Really Looking At

EDWOSB eligibility is not just about being woman-owned. To qualify, the company must be at least 51 percent owned by one or more women who are economically disadvantaged, and those women must meet SBA’s ownership, control, and economic disadvantage standards. The EDWOSB financial thresholds include a personal net worth below $850,000, adjusted gross income of $400,000 or less averaged over the prior three years, and total personal assets of $6.5 million or less, subject to SBA’s exclusions and rules.

That means SBA may look beyond the certificate itself and examine the underlying picture:

Ownership records. Does the qualifying woman owner still own at least 51 percent of the business, directly and unconditionally? Do the operating agreement, bylaws, stock ledger, tax returns, SAM.gov record, and MySBA Certifications profile tell the same story?

Control. Does the qualifying woman owner actually control long-term decision-making and day-to-day management? Titles alone are not enough if another person has practical authority over operations, bank accounts, hiring, pricing, contract performance, or strategic decisions.

Financial eligibility. Do personal tax returns, business tax returns, distributions, retained earnings, capital accounts, assets, retirement accounts, transfers, and spouse-related financial information support continued economic disadvantage under SBA rules?

Consistency. Do your records match across MySBA Certifications, SAM.gov, Small Business Search, tax filings, entity documents, capability statements, proposals, and agency-facing materials?

This is where many good companies get into trouble. Not because they are trying to game the system, but because business life moves faster than certification paperwork. Owners get married, buy homes, restructure debt, add managers, change operating agreements, move money into or out of the business, or bring in family members to help with operations. Any of those changes may be legitimate, but they need to be documented correctly.

The Danger Is Not Just Decertification

If SBA determines that a WOSB or EDWOSB no longer meets program requirements, fails to recertify properly, or fails to notify SBA of a material change, SBA may propose the firm for decertification. Under the regulations, the firm has 20 calendar days to respond in writing to a proposed decertification notice. SBA may also draw an adverse inference if a firm fails to cooperate or provide requested information.

That is a tight window, especially if your records are scattered across your accountant, attorney, bookkeeper, spouse, cloud drive, and the filing cabinet nobody has opened since 2021.

The bigger risk is disruption. A decertification issue can affect pending bids, teaming conversations, agency confidence, and your ability to pursue EDWOSB set-aside work. If a company is decertified, it cannot continue self-certifying as WOSB or EDWOSB for WOSB or EDWOSB contracts, and it must update its status in SAM within two days after SBA decertifies the business.

That is not the sort of compliance task anyone wants to manage while also preparing a proposal response, handling payroll, and trying to get a contracting officer on the phone.

What EDWOSB Firms Should Do Now

The smartest move is to treat this moment like a readiness drill. You may never receive an audit notice. But if you do, your response should not begin with, “Who has the 2023 return?”

Start with your certification file. Pull your original EDWOSB application, approval letter, renewal records, MySBA Certifications profile, SAM.gov registration, entity formation documents, operating agreement or bylaws, stock or membership records, resumes, licenses, meeting minutes, and any prior correspondence with SBA or a third-party certifier.

Then review your financial support. At minimum, be prepared to locate the last three years of personal and business tax returns, personal financial statements, documentation for retirement accounts, records of distributions and reinvested income, mortgage and property information, asset valuations, bank statements if requested, and documentation for any asset transfers involving immediate family members.

Next, check control evidence. This is the part that often gets overlooked. SBA is not only asking whether the qualifying owner appears on paper. It wants to know whether she runs the company. Make sure your records support her authority over contracts, pricing, banking, hiring, firing, vendor relationships, strategic planning, and daily operations.

Finally, look for inconsistencies before the government does. If your SAM.gov profile says one thing, your website says another, your capability statement says something else, and your tax return tells a fourth story, you have a credibility problem even if the underlying facts are defensible.

This Is Also a Market Intelligence Issue

Compliance is only half the story. The other half is whether EDWOSB firms are actively finding the right opportunities in a market where awards appear softer so far in FY2026.

If EDWOSB award activity is down, contractors cannot afford to wait passively for set-asides to appear. They need to know which agencies have historically used WOSB and EDWOSB vehicles, which contracting offices are buying their NAICS, which primes need qualified partners, and where expiring contracts may create recompete or subcontracting opportunities.

That is where many certified firms miss the mark. They win the certification, then market themselves broadly instead of using data to identify likely buyers. Certification opens a door, but it does not walk you into the room.

A stronger approach combines compliance readiness with capture discipline. Keep your EDWOSB file clean, then use market intelligence to focus on agencies, contracting officers, incumbents, and opportunities where your certification and capabilities actually align.

The Bottom Line

SBA’s EDWOSB audit activity should not scare legitimate firms away from the program. It should remind them that eligibility must be maintained, documented, and defensible.

For women-owned small businesses, the opportunity is still real. The government continues to maintain WOSB contracting goals, and agencies still need qualified firms that can perform. But the old “certify and forget it” mindset is no longer good enough.

Now is the time to tighten your documentation, review your ownership and control records, verify your financial eligibility, and make sure your federal contracting strategy is built on current data rather than assumptions.

FedBiz Access helps small businesses navigate SBA certifications, strengthen government contracting readiness, and identify real federal opportunities through smarter market intelligence. To review your positioning or see how FedBiz365 can help you uncover targeted WOSB and EDWOSB opportunities, call now: 844-628-8914 or book a quick call.

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

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Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

The post SBA Is Auditing EDWOSB Certification Status. Here’s What Women-Owned Contractors Should Do Now appeared first on FedBiz Access.

For too many small businesses, that question has turned into a waiting-room problem. Not a strategy problem. Not a capability problem. A paperwork-and-processing problem.

That is why H.R. 8879, the Oversight and Transparency for Small Business Certifications Act of 2026, deserves more attention than the average reporting bill. The measure passed the House by voice vote on June 23 and now moves to the Senate. On paper, it does not rewrite the Women-Owned Small Business, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, HUBZone, or 8(a) programs. It does not promise faster approvals tomorrow morning. It does not magically clean up every document request, portal issue, or eligibility gray area that can make a certification file feel like a second full-time job.

What it does is require the SBA to start showing Congress, every year, what is actually happening inside the certification pipeline. For contractors, that matters. A lot.

A Reporting Bill With Real Consequences

The bill would require the SBA Administrator to submit certification data with the President’s annual budget request. That report must include the total number of unique small businesses certified in covered contracting programs, application volumes, applications still awaiting decisions, businesses applying for or receiving multiple certifications, applications submitted through SBA’s unified platform, and program-specific approval, denial, and processing-time data for SDVOSB, WOSB, and HUBZone certifications.

That may sound like Washington housekeeping, but in the federal market, reporting creates pressure. Pressure creates management attention. Management attention is often the difference between a backlog that quietly becomes “the way things are” and a backlog that gets resources, scrutiny, and deadlines.

The uncomfortable truth is that certification delays are not just administrative inconveniences. They can change who gets to compete.

A WOSB applicant waiting months for a determination may miss an agency’s year-end set-aside. A veteran-owned company waiting on SDVOSB status may be forced to watch a perfect sources sought notice pass by. A HUBZone firm that has done the hard work of maintaining its principal office and workforce requirements may still lose timing on an opportunity because certification or recertification is not settled.

Contractors do not operate in academic timelines. They operate around forecast dates, recompetes, task order windows, agency budget cycles, and teaming decisions that are made long before a solicitation hits SAM.gov.

Certification Timelines Are a Competitive Issue

SBA’s own program guidance gives applicants some useful benchmarks. The agency says WOSB determinations are made “whenever practicable” within 90 calendar days after receipt of a complete package, while the 8(a) program also carries a 90-day processing window once the application is complete.

Those timelines are helpful, but any contractor who has been through the process knows the phrase “complete package” can carry a lot of weight.

A missing operating agreement, unclear ownership documentation, outdated SAM profile, unresolved tax document, control issue, lease concern, or employment residency question can move an application out of the clean lane and into the swamp. Once that happens, the contractor is often left trying to figure out whether the delay is because SBA is backed up, because the file has a genuine eligibility issue, or because some document detail buried three clicks deep in the portal needs attention.

That uncertainty is expensive. It affects capture planning. It affects teaming conversations. It affects whether a contractor can confidently tell a prime, “Yes, we are certified and ready,” or has to fall back on the much weaker, “We submitted and are waiting.”

Nobody wants to build a federal growth strategy around “waiting.”

Better Data Can Expose the Bottlenecks

One reason H.R. 8879 is more meaningful than it first appears is that it does not just ask for a basic headcount of certified firms. It asks for the number of applications that have enough information for SBA to make a determination, the number still undecided, and, for WOSB applications eligible for sole-source treatment, the number that initially lacked sufficient information.

That kind of detail helps separate two very different problems.

Sometimes applicants submit incomplete or weak packages. That is not a criticism, just reality. SBA certification rules can be technical, and what looks obvious to a business owner may not satisfy the evidentiary standard inside the review process.

Other times, the application is complete and still sits too long.

Those are different bottlenecks, and they require different fixes. If the data shows a high volume of incomplete WOSB packages, then contractors and advisors need to focus harder on document readiness before submission. If the data shows a large number of complete applications sitting without decisions, then the pressure shifts toward SBA staffing, workflow, technology, and internal review discipline.

Either way, the market gets a clearer picture than it has today.

Why Approval Rates Matter More Than They Sound

The bill’s focus on approval and denial rates is also important. Approval rates can tell us a great deal about how the certification system is functioning, especially when those numbers are tracked over time and compared across programs.

A low approval rate might indicate that applicants are misunderstanding eligibility standards, that SBA guidance is not clear enough, or that many firms are applying before they are truly ready. A sudden change in approval rates could signal stricter interpretation, policy shifts, reviewer inconsistency, or changing applicant behavior.

That matters because certification programs are not just entry tickets. They are policy tools designed to help qualified small businesses compete in markets where they have historically faced barriers. If the front door becomes too unpredictable, too slow, or too opaque, the program’s value weakens.

Tracking approval rates also gives Congress a better basis for asking hard questions. Are eligible firms getting through? Are application standards being applied consistently? Are certain programs experiencing unusual denial patterns? Are firms with multiple certifications facing unnecessary duplication? Are small businesses losing access to set-aside opportunities because the process itself is not keeping pace with the market?

Those are not abstract oversight questions. They translate directly into whether real contractors can compete for real contracts.

The Unified Certification Platform Needs Transparency Too

The timing of H.R. 8879 also fits a broader shift at SBA. The agency has been moving more certification activity into MySBA Certifications, which it describes as a one-stop destination for small business certifications.

In theory, that is exactly where things should be headed. Contractors should not have to chase separate systems, duplicate documents, or guess which portal holds which piece of their certification record. A unified platform should make certification management cleaner, especially for firms that hold or pursue more than one status.

But every unified portal eventually runs into the same practical question: is it actually improving outcomes, or is it simply centralizing the frustration in a more modern-looking place?

H.R. 8879 would require SBA to report how many applications are coming through the unified platform and how many certified firms still have certification documentation housed somewhere else. That is not a minor technology detail. Contractors have lived through enough system migrations, legacy records, and “claim your business” exercises to know that data cleanup can affect whether contracting officers, primes, and teaming partners can verify status quickly.

In federal contracting, visibility is not cosmetic. It is part of credibility.

Recent SBA Performance Shows Why Accountability Works

The SDVOSB program offers a useful example of why transparency and management focus matter. SBA announced in late 2025 that it had cleared a VetCert backlog of more than 2,700 pending applications, bringing the pending total to zero actionable cases. SBA also said VetCert processing times had improved from 81 days at the end of 2024 to an average of 12 days after staffing and funding were restored.

That kind of operational improvement does not happen by accident. It happens when a backlog becomes visible, leadership pays attention, resources are applied, and performance is measured.

Now imagine that level of visibility across WOSB, HUBZone, and SDVOSB certifications every year.

Contractors would be able to see whether average processing times are improving or slipping. Congress would be able to ask why one program moves faster than another. SBA leadership would have a harder time explaining away persistent delays with anecdotes. Industry advisors would have better data to tell clients when to apply, how far ahead to prepare, and where the biggest risk points sit.

That is exactly the kind of market intelligence small businesses need before they invest months of effort into a certification strategy.

WOSB and HUBZone Contractors Should Watch Closely

The WOSB context is especially important. When H.R. 8879 advanced through the House Small Business Committee, lawmakers pointed to concerns that the WOSB program had faced significant application backlogs and long waits, especially compared with programs that had more dedicated staffing and contractor support.

For women-owned firms, that is not a small administrative matter. WOSB and EDWOSB status can affect access to set-asides and sole-source opportunities in eligible industries. When processing slows down, firms may miss the very opportunities the program was designed to help them pursue.

HUBZone firms have their own reasons to pay attention. HUBZone eligibility depends on location, principal office requirements, and employee residency rules. It is a powerful certification, especially for firms that can align their capabilities with agencies using HUBZone set-asides or the HUBZone price evaluation preference, but it also requires ongoing discipline.

When HUBZone certification or recertification timelines drag, contractors can run into real-world complications involving leases, hiring, workforce changes, map updates, and opportunity timing. A delayed decision in that environment can create more than frustration. It can create strategic uncertainty.

Primes and Subs Need to Understand the Certification Pipeline

There is another audience that should care about H.R. 8879: primes.

Large businesses and established small business primes often build subcontracting plans, mentor-protégé strategies, and capture teams around the availability of qualified socioeconomic partners. If the certification pipeline is thin, delayed, or concentrated in certain programs, primes need to know that.

A prime pursuing agency work with small business participation goals cannot simply assume there will be enough ready, eligible, and properly certified firms at the right time. Better certification data helps primes identify where the market is healthy, where partner development needs to start earlier, and where teaming conversations should happen before the RFP clock starts ticking.

The same is true for small business subcontractors that want to move up the ladder.

A firm holding WOSB and HUBZone status, for example, may be more attractive in certain agency environments, but only if those certifications are current, visible, and aligned with the opportunity. H.R. 8879’s focus on multiple certification holders could eventually give the market a better understanding of how common certification stacking really is and whether SBA systems are keeping up with that reality.

For years, small businesses have been told, correctly, that multiple certifications can expand their opportunity map. Now Congress is asking SBA to show how that pattern actually looks in the data.

Contractors Should Not Wait for the Senate

A reporting bill does not fix everything, but it can change the conversation from “we hear there are delays” to “here are the numbers, here is the trend, and here is where the system is breaking down.”

In federal contracting, that shift is more powerful than it sounds. Agencies manage what Congress asks about. SBA budgets for what it has to explain. Industry responds to what it can measure.

For small business contractors, the practical takeaway is simple: do not wait for this bill to become law before getting your certification house in order.

Review your SAM.gov record. Confirm ownership and control documents. Check operating agreements, bylaws, resumes, tax records, licenses, leases, payroll, and HUBZone employee residency documentation where applicable. Look at your target agencies and ask whether WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone, 8(a), or multiple certifications fit your capture strategy.

Certification should never be treated as a trophy on the wall. It is a market access tool, and like every tool in government contracting, it works best when it is ready before the opportunity appears.

FedBiz Access Can Help You Stay Certified, Compliant, and Competitive

H.R. 8879 is another reminder that certifications are not just paperwork. They are part of your positioning, your credibility, your teaming value, and your ability to move when the right contract shows up.

FedBiz Access has spent more than 25 years helping government contractors stay compliant, stay current, and keep competing in a marketplace that never stops changing. Whether you are pursuing WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone, 8(a), or a multiple-certification strategy, the key is knowing what the rules require, what documentation needs attention, and how your certification status fits into a larger federal growth plan.

Need help navigating these certification changes or getting certified the right way? Contact FedBiz Access today: 844-628-8914 or book a call with our team. We will help you understand where you stand, prepare your documentation, avoid common mistakes, and stay ready for the opportunities that matter most.

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

The post H.R. 8879 Just Passed the House. Here’s Why Small Business Contractors Should Pay Attention Now appeared first on FedBiz Access.

AI is no longer sitting politely in the “innovation” corner of federal contracting, waiting for agencies to figure out whether it matters. It matters now. It is showing up in acquisition planning, modernization projects, cybersecurity requirements, data management conversations, and workforce training needs. For small business contractors, that creates both opportunity and pressure.

The honest version is this: agencies want AI, but they do not want reckless AI. They want faster analysis, better threat detection, cleaner workflows, smarter automation, and improved decision support. At the same time, they are worried about data exposure, privacy, model reliability, vendor lock-in, cybersecurity gaps, and contractors casually sprinkling AI into performance without explaining what is actually happening.

That tension is where small businesses still have room to compete.

The opportunity is not limited to building a giant AI platform. In fact, most small contractors should not try to position themselves as the next foundation model company. The stronger play is in the work around AI adoption: data readiness, cybersecurity, governance, documentation, integration, training, compliance, and mission-specific implementation. That was the central message of the FedBiz Five podcast discussion on AI, cybersecurity, and federal buying.

AI Is Becoming Part of Normal Federal Buying

One mistake contractors make is waiting for an opportunity title to say “artificial intelligence.” By then, they may already be late.

Federal AI procurement often hides inside ordinary requirements. A solicitation might mention data modernization, predictive analytics, cybersecurity automation, fraud detection, records management, customer experience, help desk automation, logistics support, or workflow optimization. None of those titles scream “AI contract,” but AI may be part of the solution, the evaluation criteria, or the agency’s future roadmap.

OMB’s current AI acquisition guidance, M-25-22 (pdf), directs agencies to acquire AI in ways that are effective, trustworthy, timely, and cost-efficient. It also emphasizes competition, data portability, interoperability, risk management, and cross-functional acquisition planning. In plain English, agencies are being told to buy AI thoughtfully, not just quickly.

That is a useful signal for small contractors. Buyers are not only asking, “Can you bring us AI?” They are also asking, “Can you help us make AI usable, secure, explainable, and manageable?”

Why AI and Cybersecurity Are Now the Same Conversation

AI and cybersecurity used to feel like separate lanes. AI was innovation. Cybersecurity was compliance. That separation is fading fast.

When an agency uses AI to process sensitive case files, acquisition records, health information, operational data, or threat intelligence, the buyer has to care about more than whether the tool works. They need to know where the data goes, who can access it, whether the model can expose protected information, how outputs are reviewed, how the environment is monitored, and whether the contractor can protect federal information.

OMB M-25-22 specifically calls for agencies to consider privacy, data handling, intellectual property rights, government data use, documentation, transparency, and disclosure of contractor AI use in performance. It also warns agencies to avoid costly dependencies on a single vendor through attention to sourcing, portability, and interoperability.

This is why AI-adjacent work increasingly sounds like cybersecurity work. Agencies may not need every small contractor to build an AI engine. They do need contractors who can help protect the data, secure the workflow, document the controls, train the users, and support continuous oversight.

The AI Security Layers Contractors Should Understand

When federal buyers talk about secure AI, they are not usually looking for one magic product. They are looking for a stack of trust.

The first layer is data governance. Agencies need to know what data is being used, where it came from, whether it includes sensitive information, how it is labeled, and whether it is appropriate for that AI use case. In procurement language, this may appear as data management, data lineage, privacy, records management, CUI handling, or data protection.

The second layer is access control. Who can use the tool? What can they upload? What can they export? Are permissions role-based? Are activities logged? This connects directly to identity management, zero trust, privileged access, audit logging, and continuous monitoring.

The third layer is model and application security. Can the system be manipulated through prompts? Can bad data poison results? Can the model expose information it should not reveal? Can humans identify and correct weak outputs? This is where terms like testing, evaluation, validation, robustness, red teaming, and model risk start appearing.

The fourth layer is cloud and infrastructure security. If the AI tool is cloud-based and federal information is involved, FedRAMP may become part of the conversation. FedRAMP provides a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring for cloud products and services used by federal agencies.

The fifth layer is human oversight. This one matters more than many contractors realize. Agencies need to know who reviews AI outputs, who approves decisions, what happens when the tool is wrong, and how the agency can explain the role AI played in the workflow.

Where Small Contractors Can Break In

Small businesses do not have to own the whole AI stack to win. They need a defined lane.

One strong entry point is data cleanup and data readiness. AI is only as useful as the information underneath it, and many agencies are still working through duplicated records, inconsistent fields, siloed systems, scanned documents, legacy databases, and missing metadata. Contractors that can inventory, label, standardize, migrate, and govern data are doing work that makes AI possible.

A second lane is cybersecurity support for AI-enabled systems. If you already provide vulnerability management, cloud security, access control, incident response planning, CUI handling, or compliance support, now is the time to understand how AI changes the risk model. Buyers will value contractors who can connect traditional cybersecurity to AI-specific risks.

A third lane is AI governance and documentation. Agencies need policies, risk assessments, usage guidelines, SOPs, governance checklists, training materials, and audit-ready documentation. That is not always work for a massive integrator. A small firm with strong compliance, privacy, cybersecurity, or IT governance experience can be very competitive here.

Training is another practical opportunity. Federal employees need to understand what can be uploaded, what should never be uploaded, how to check AI output, how to avoid overreliance, and how to document AI-assisted work. This is not about hype sessions with a few futuristic slides. It is about agency-specific, risk-aware workforce adoption.

Finally, small contractors with deep mission knowledge can win in narrow use cases. Think AI-assisted document triage for a benefits workflow, anomaly detection for logistics data, predictive maintenance support for facilities, or secure automation for help desk intake. Federal buyers often do not need a moonshot. They need a problem solved without creating three new problems for the CIO.

Compliance Pressure Is Rising

For defense contractors, CMMC is no longer a distant planning topic. The CMMC program is designed to verify that contractors and subcontractors protect federal contract information and controlled unclassified information at levels appropriate to cybersecurity risk. The first phase of CMMC implementation began on November 10, 2025, with a phased approach over three years.

That matters for AI because AI projects often involve sensitive operational, technical, or mission data. If your cyber controls are weak, your AI positioning will not carry much weight.

FedRAMP is another pressure point for cloud-based AI tools and services. If your solution stores, processes, or transmits federal data in the cloud, buyers will care about authorization, security controls, monitoring, and where the data lives. Even contractors that are not cloud service providers should understand how FedRAMP affects teaming, integration, and solution design.

NIST’s AI Risk Management Framework and Generative AI Profile are also shaping the language of trust around AI. NIST describes the Generative AI Profile as a companion resource that helps organizations identify and manage risks unique to or intensified by generative AI.

Positioning Matters More Than Buzzwords

The weakest thing a contractor can say right now is, “We do AI.”

That phrase is too broad, too crowded, and too easy to dismiss. A stronger position is specific: “We help agencies secure AI-enabled workflows involving CUI,” or “We provide AI governance documentation and workforce training for federal program offices,” or “We prepare operational data so AI-enabled analytics can produce reliable outputs.”

Contractors should update SAM.gov profiles, Small Business Search language, capability statements, and teaming materials around the actual work they can perform. Use terms such as data governance, CUI protection, AI governance, cybersecurity compliance, cloud security, FedRAMP support, CMMC readiness, analytics, automation, secure software development, and workforce training only where they match real capability.

RFIs are especially important. Agencies are still shaping AI requirements, and a thoughtful RFI response can influence the acquisition strategy. Do not simply say you are interested. Explain the risks, where small businesses can add value, what security controls matter, how the scope should be structured, and why the work can support small business participation.

The Takeaway

AI, cybersecurity, and federal buying are converging. That creates more scrutiny, more compliance expectations, and more questions around data, cloud security, governance, human review, and contractor transparency.

It also creates real opportunity.

Small contractors can win by securing AI, preparing data for AI, training agencies to use AI safely, documenting governance, supporting compliance, and bringing mission expertise to practical AI-enabled projects. The key is not to chase the hype. The key is to chase the secure, useful work that makes AI adoption possible.

FedBiz365 can help contractors spot these AI-adjacent opportunities earlier, especially when they are buried inside cybersecurity, data modernization, cloud support, training, governance, or IT services requirements. To see how FedBiz365 can help sharpen your federal pipeline and uncover better-fit opportunities, call FedBiz Access today or for a free demonstration: 844-628-8914 or book one at your convenience.

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FedBiz Access4.9

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

The post AI, Cybersecurity, and Federal Buying: Where Small Contractors Can Still Break In appeared first on FedBiz Access.

That is where CMMC comes in.

CMMC, short for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, is the Department of Defense’s framework for verifying that contractors and subcontractors have the proper cybersecurity safeguards in place. Its purpose is to help protect sensitive government information as it moves through the defense supply chain.

For small businesses, the most important takeaway is simple: CMMC can affect your ability to compete for, win, and keep DoD contracts.

Many small business contractors are hearing about CMMC but are still unsure what it means, when it applies, and where to begin. The good news is that not every contractor needs the most advanced level of CMMC. For many businesses, the starting point is CMMC Level 1.

That is why we created our full CMMC Level 1 Compliance Guide for Small Business Government Contractors.

What Is CMMC?

CMMC is the Department of Defense’s cybersecurity compliance framework for contractors in the Defense Industrial Base. It is designed to confirm that businesses have implemented the required safeguards for the type of government information they handle.

CMMC focuses primarily on two categories of information:

Federal Contract Information, or FCI, is non-public information provided by or generated for the government under a contract. This may include contract documents, project instructions, delivery details, performance information, or other information not intended for public release.

Controlled Unclassified Information, or CUI, is more sensitive unclassified information that requires stronger protection. This can include certain technical data, engineering drawings, export-controlled information, and other protected government information.

The difference between FCI and CUI matters because it helps determine which CMMC level may apply to your company.

Why CMMC Is Becoming More Important

The defense supply chain is a major target for cyber threats. Small contractors, subcontractors, manufacturers, service providers, and technology companies may all handle information that matters to national security, even if they do not think of themselves as “defense companies.”

The DoD is using CMMC to create more accountability across that supply chain.

Instead of relying only on broad contract clauses or informal cybersecurity assumptions, CMMC creates a structured way to assess whether contractors have the right safeguards in place. As CMMC requirements appear in DoD solicitations and contracts, contractors may need to demonstrate the required cybersecurity posture before award, before an option is exercised, or before a contract is extended.

For small businesses, that makes CMMC preparation a competitive issue.

A company that understands its CMMC requirements early is in a stronger position than one that waits until a solicitation is released and then scrambles to figure out what applies.

What Is CMMC Level 1?

CMMC Level 1 is the foundational level of CMMC compliance.

It applies to contractors and subcontractors that process, store, or transmit Federal Contract Information on their information systems. In plain English, CMMC Level 1 is about basic cybersecurity hygiene for companies handling non-public federal contract information.

Level 1 is not meant to be an advanced cybersecurity program. It is built around practical safeguards that many businesses should already have in place, such as limiting access to authorized users, protecting systems from malicious code, controlling physical access, and preventing sensitive contract information from being posted publicly.

Under current CMMC guidance, Level 1 is based on 15 basic safeguarding requirements from FAR 52.204-21.

For small business contractors, this makes Level 1 the logical place to start. It helps answer the first set of questions every DoD contractor should be asking:

• Do we handle Federal Contract Information?
• Where does that information live?
• Who has access to it?
• Are our systems protected by basic cybersecurity safeguards?
• Can we document what we are doing?

CMMC Level 1 Is a Self-Assessment, But It Still Matters

One common misconception is that because CMMC Level 1 is a self-assessment, it is not serious.

That is a mistake.

CMMC Level 1 does not require a third-party C3PAO certification assessment. However, contractors are still expected to perform an annual self-assessment and affirmation. That means your business should understand the requirements, evaluate its environment honestly, document its results, and correct gaps before making any compliance representation.

A self-assessment should not be treated as a quick checkbox exercise. It should be evidence-based.

That evidence may include user account records, access control procedures, anti-malware settings, patch records, physical access procedures, media disposal practices, and documentation showing where FCI is processed, stored, or transmitted.

The goal is not simply to say your company is compliant. The goal is to be able to support that statement.

Why Small Businesses Should Not Wait

For many contractors, CMMC will become most urgent when it appears in a solicitation, subcontract requirement, recompete, or prime contractor request.

Waiting until that point can create problems.

If your company has not mapped where FCI lives, identified who has access, documented its cybersecurity practices, or reviewed the Level 1 requirements, there may not be enough time to fix gaps before a proposal deadline or contract action.

CMMC readiness takes time, especially for companies that have never formally documented their cybersecurity procedures. Even basic requirements can create work if your business has shared logins, unmanaged cloud storage, old devices, unclear offboarding processes, or no consistent way to handle federal contract information.

Preparing early helps your company avoid last-minute surprises.

It also helps you have better conversations with prime contractors, teaming partners, IT providers, and internal leadership.

CMMC Level 1 vs. Level 2: Know the Difference

Not every contractor needs the same CMMC level.

CMMC Level 1 is focused on Federal Contract Information. CMMC Level 2 is focused on Controlled Unclassified Information and is much more involved.

This distinction is important because many small businesses assume they either do not need CMMC at all or that they immediately need the more advanced level. The real answer depends on the information your company handles and the requirements in the solicitation or contract.

If your company handles FCI only, Level 1 may apply.

If your company handles CUI, expects to receive CUI, or supports work where CUI is likely involved, you should evaluate Level 2 requirements.

The first step is not guessing. The first step is understanding your contract data.

What Contractors Should Do Now

Small business contractors should start with a practical CMMC readiness review.

Begin by reviewing your current and target DoD opportunities. Look for contract clauses, solicitation language, prime contractor requirements, and any references to CMMC, FCI, CUI, FAR 52.204-21, DFARS cybersecurity clauses, or NIST SP 800-171.

Next, identify where federal contract information enters your business. Does it come through email? A customer portal? A shared drive? A project management platform? A cloud storage folder? A subcontractor exchange?

Then, map who can access that information and what systems are involved.

Once you understand the environment, compare your current practices against the CMMC Level 1 requirements. Mark each requirement as met, not met, or not applicable, and collect evidence for each answer.

Finally, fix the gaps.

Common Level 1 gaps include shared user accounts, weak password practices, outdated anti-malware tools, poor employee offboarding procedures, unmanaged cloud storage, lack of visitor controls, and no documented process for disposing of devices or media that may contain contract information.

These are fixable issues, but they are easier to address before a contract deadline is on the line.

CMMC Is a Business Readiness Issue

For small contractors, CMMC should not be viewed as a technical burden sitting somewhere in the IT department.

It affects business development, contract eligibility, subcontractor relationships, proposal planning, operational risk, and long-term competitiveness in the DoD market.

Companies that prepare early will be better positioned to respond when CMMC language appears in solicitations or when prime contractors begin asking for cybersecurity documentation.

Companies that wait may find themselves behind before they even submit a bid.

Start With the CMMC Level 1 Guide

CMMC can feel complicated at first, but Level 1 becomes much easier to understand when it is broken down into plain language.

Our CMMC Level 1 Compliance Guide explains:

• What CMMC is
• Who needs CMMC Level 1
• The difference between FCI and CUI
• The 15 Level 1 cybersecurity requirements
• How self-assessments work
• What evidence contractors should keep
• How to identify your assessment scope
• Practical steps small businesses can take now

If your company works with the DoD, supports a DoD prime contractor, or plans to pursue defense contracts, this is the place to start.

Need help winning in government contracting?

Call FedBiz Access today at 844-628-8914 or book a call for a complimentary review.

Book a Free Consultation

Book An Appointment

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

The post Why CMMC Level 1 Matters for Small Business DoD Contractors appeared first on FedBiz Access.

That is the practical takeaway from SBA’s proposed 8(a) rule change published on June 11, 2026. The proposed rule would remove the rebuttable presumption of social disadvantage for individually owned 8(a) applicants, meaning applicants would no longer qualify as socially disadvantaged simply because they belong to a previously designated racial or ethnic group. Comments on the proposed rule are due July 13, 2026.

For small business contractors, this does not mean the 8(a) Business Development Program is going away. Far from it. The 8(a) program remains one of the most valuable federal contracting tools available to eligible small businesses, offering access to set-aside contracts, sole-source opportunities, business development support, and a stronger position in agency small business strategies.

What is changing is the burden of proof.

For contractors who have been waiting to apply, casually collecting documents, or assuming the 8(a) application is mostly a paperwork exercise, this is the moment to slow down and get serious. Eligibility has always mattered. Now, the way you demonstrate eligibility may matter even more.

What SBA Is Proposing

The proposed rule applies only to individually owned firms seeking 8(a) eligibility. SBA states that it does not change eligibility standards for entity-owned participants, such as businesses owned by tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, Native Hawaiian Organizations, or Community Development Corporations.

Historically, SBA regulations included a rebuttable presumption that members of certain designated groups were socially disadvantaged. After the 2023 Ultima decision, SBA stopped relying on that presumption and shifted toward individualized social disadvantage submissions. Now SBA is proposing to formally remove the presumption from its regulations and replace the current framework with a new test for individually owned applicants.

Under the proposed rule, an individual American citizen could establish social disadvantage by showing that, during their lifetime, a federal, state, or local government, university, corporation, or other private entity discriminated or was biased against a clearly definable racial, ethnic, or cultural group of which the applicant is a member, or favored another racial, ethnic, or cultural group, and that this caused material harm to the applicant.

SBA defines “material harm” in the proposed text as loss of access to or diminished opportunities related to economic advancement. The proposed rule also identifies examples of evidence that may support a claim, including government, university, or corporate policies, reports, audits, findings, court decisions, administrative rulings, official statements, and related documents.

That is a meaningful shift. A strong 8(a) application will need more than a sincere explanation. It will need a clear, well-supported record.

The 8(a) Program Is Still Powerful

It is easy for contractors to hear “rule change” and assume the program is suddenly too risky or too complicated to pursue. That would be the wrong lesson.

The 8(a) program still offers serious strategic value for qualified firms. SBA describes the 8(a) program as a nine-year business development program that provides counseling, training, management and technical guidance, and access to federal contracting opportunities. For the right company, 8(a) certification can help open doors that are difficult to access through full and open competition alone.

That said, 8(a) certification is not a magic badge. The firms that benefit most are usually the ones that enter with a plan. They understand their NAICS codes, target agencies, past performance story, teaming options, pricing posture, and contract vehicles. They know where 8(a) obligations are likely to appear and where their capabilities align with real agency buying behavior.

The proposed rule does not change that strategic reality. It simply raises the importance of getting the eligibility side right before you invest months of effort into an application.

Social Disadvantage May Become More Evidence-Driven

For many prospective applicants, the biggest adjustment will be how they think about social disadvantage.

Under the proposed standard, SBA is not asking only whether an applicant has experienced hardship in a general sense. The proposed rule focuses on group-based racial, ethnic, or cultural prejudice or bias, circumstances beyond the individual’s control, and a connection to material harm.

That means applicants should be prepared to organize their evidence around a logical chain:

What group-based bias or discrimination occurred?

What policy, practice, decision, or action supports that claim?

How was the applicant connected to the affected group at the relevant time?

What material harm did the applicant personally experience?

How did that harm affect economic advancement, access, opportunity, business formation, education, employment, capital, contracts, or professional growth?

This is not the place for vague statements. A sentence like “I faced discrimination throughout my career” may be true, but it is not enough by itself. A stronger application record may include dated events, supporting documents, specific institutions or entities, measurable impacts, and a clear explanation of how those experiences affected the owner’s ability to enter or advance in business.

In other words, the narrative still matters, even if the regulatory framework changes. The difference is that the narrative should be anchored to evidence.

Do Not Forget Economic Disadvantage

Social disadvantage gets most of the attention because of this proposed rule, but 8(a) eligibility has never been only about social disadvantage.

Applicants also need to satisfy economic disadvantage requirements, ownership and control requirements, small business size standards, potential for success, good character, and other SBA criteria. This is where many contractors get tripped up. They focus on the personal statement and overlook financial thresholds, tax return issues, ownership structure, operating agreements, outside employment, control concerns, affiliate relationships, or inconsistent SAM.gov and SBS information.

A company may have a compelling social disadvantage case and still run into problems if the owner does not clearly control the firm, if financial documentation does not support economic disadvantage, or if the company’s corporate records tell a different story than the application.

Before applying, contractors should review personal financials, adjusted net worth, income, assets, tax records, ownership documents, resumes, contracts, invoices, banking records, licenses, and management roles. The application needs to tell one consistent story across every document. SBA reviewers are not reading your application like a motivational essay. They are reviewing it like a file, and files need to reconcile.

Timing Matters More Than Contractors Think

The comment deadline is July 13, 2026, and the rule is still proposed. That means contractors should avoid acting as though every detail is final. SBA could revise the rule after reviewing public comments.

At the same time, waiting passively is rarely a good strategy.

If you are considering 8(a), use this period to assess your readiness. Do not rush an incomplete application just because the rules are moving. Do not sit on your hands either, especially if your firm is already positioned to benefit from 8(a) opportunities in the next one to three years.

The right timing depends on your business. A firm with strong past performance, clean ownership documents, stable financial records, and a clear agency target list may be in a very different position than a newer company still sorting out control issues, revenue concentration, or documentation gaps.

The goal is not simply to apply. The goal is to apply when your eligibility and market strategy are both strong enough to support approval and real opportunity pursuit.

What Contractors Should Do Now

Start with an eligibility review. Look at the owner, the company, and the market together. 8(a) should never be treated as a standalone certification project because certification without capture strategy can turn into an expensive trophy on the shelf.

Next, begin organizing documentation. If you may need to establish social disadvantage under a more evidence-driven standard, gather records now. That may include policies, decisions, correspondence, official records, employment history, education records, business formation challenges, financing denials, contracting barriers, or other documentation relevant to your situation.

Then review economic disadvantage. Make sure personal financial information is current, accurate, and consistent. Contractors sometimes underestimate this step because it feels less personal than the social disadvantage discussion, but it can be just as important.

Finally, evaluate your opportunity landscape. Which agencies buy what you sell? Are there existing 8(a) incumbents in your NAICS codes? Are there recompetes coming? Are contracting officers using 8(a) sole-source awards in your market? Are you better positioned as a prime, subcontractor, protégé, or joint venture partner?

That is where 8(a) becomes more than a certification. It becomes a business development strategy.

The Bottom Line

SBA’s proposed 8(a) rule change is a reminder that the federal marketplace rewards preparation. The 8(a) program remains powerful, but the path into the program is becoming more documentation-focused, more evidence-driven, and less forgiving of assumptions.

For eligible contractors, this is not a reason to back away. It is a reason to get organized.

If you are thinking about 8(a) certification, now is the time to understand your eligibility, strengthen your documentation, review economic disadvantage, and decide whether the timing is right for your business.

FedBiz Access can help you take that first step with confidence. Call us today: 844-628-8914 or book a call for a complimentary 8(a) eligibility review, and let’s look at where you stand before you apply.

Book a Free Consultation

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Cathy M

1 week ago

I met Sidney Waters one year ago on a conference call. Really personable and ready to help companies become properly equipped government contractors.

Their resources and expert guidance provide everything you need to implement your strategy and hit the ground running.

Although I haven't subscribed to Fed Biz Access, Sidney Waters has consistently checked in on our progress, providing "gold nuggets" and directing us to government resources. To be honest, he doesn't have to, but he's a quality individual. And for that, we appreciate him.

The team at Fed Biz Access consists of former contracting officers who clearly know their stuff.
If you are looking to start a government contracting business, I highly recommend calling Sidney Waters before spending your budget elsewhere.
He is a genuine, professional who genuinely wants you to succeed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for attending our presentation; Our pleasure to be of assistance and support with your government contracting goals as needed. We look forward to being of service again in the future. We appreciate your time in posting this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant.

Glenn Scheel

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral and the entire staff at FedBiz Access are very knowledgable and helpful. Ashley has helped me navigate the arduous process of GSA approval with great care and speed.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate the five star google rating and your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team and your account specialist.

diane canovas

2 weeks ago

I've been working with Ashley Futral for almost 2 years, after taking over as Account Administrator for our SAM.gov account. Interaction with Ashley has always been pleasant. She took the time to explain what she was doing as she navigated through the process of updating our account information. Very knowledgeable, which was a relief as I was just taking over the role of Admin. Thank you Ashley, "Thumbs Up"

Response from the owner:Thank you for the thumbs up and for your continued business. Very much appreciate your feedback and five star google rating for the FedBIz Access team specialist.

Jo-lin Ferdinand

2 weeks ago

Ashley Futral has always been available for me. She has always made me feel like I have nothing to worry about. My million questions are answered with a kind word and assurance that all is good and she's got me. Never worry about a due date, she's on it before I even know it's coming up. Super GRATEFUL THAT SHE IS THERE FOR ME.

Response from the owner:We look forward to always being of service and value to your organization and love the "million questions".. we strive hard to have the million answers:) Thank you for this five star FedBiz Access team consultant review!

Mariah Khetem

2 weeks ago

Ashley was outstanding throughout the entire process. She was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to ensuring everything was completed accurately and on time. Her attention to detail and proactive communication made what could have been a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free.

Ashley worked diligently to guide us through each step, keeping us informed along the way and quickly addressing any questions or updates that arose. Her professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer service were evident from start to finish.

We truly appreciate all of Ashley's hard work and support and would highly recommend her and Fedbiz to anyone needing assistance. Thank you, Ashley, for going above and beyond!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist with your government contracting needs and registrations. Thank you for your repeat business and your detailed five star feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Very much appreciated!

Al Hogan

2 weeks ago

I cannot say enough good things about Ashley Futral and the exceptional support she provided throughout my SBA and SDVOSB certification process.

From start to finish, Ashley demonstrated an outstanding level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service. Navigating the certification process can be overwhelming, but her knowledge, guidance, and responsiveness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free.

Ashley took the time to thoroughly review every requirement, identify potential issues before they became problems, and ensure that all documentation was accurate and complete. Her meticulous attention to detail played a significant role in helping me successfully obtain both my SBA certification and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.

What impressed me most was her genuine dedication to her clients. She was always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer expert advice throughout the process. Her communication was timely, clear, and professional, giving me confidence every step of the way.

If you are seeking assistance with SBA certifications, SDVOSB certifications, or government contracting registrations, I highly recommend Ashley Futral. Her expertise, work ethic, and customer-focused approach are truly second to none.

Thank you, Ashley, for your outstanding support and for helping me achieve this important milestone for my business.

I also want to add I wouked with Mya Plant.

Mya Plant exceeded every expectation and delivered a capability statement that truly elevated our organization's professional image and marketability.

From our initial consultation through the final product, Mya demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to understanding our business. She took the time to learn about our organization's history, capabilities, certifications, differentiators, and long-term goals, then transformed that information into a polished, visually appealing, and highly effective capability statement.

What impressed me most was her ability to take complex information and present it in a clear, concise, and compelling format that speaks directly to potential government agencies, contracting officers, and business partners. Her recommendations improved not only the document itself but also how we communicate our value proposition to prospective clients.

Mya was responsive, patient, and incredibly easy to work with throughout the entire process. Every revision was completed quickly, and she consistently went above and beyond to ensure the final product exceeded our expectations.

Thanks to her expertise, we now have a professional capability statement that accurately reflects our organization, strengthens our credibility, and positions us more effectively for government contracting and business development opportunities.

If you are considering hiring Mya for capability statements, government contracting support, branding materials, or professional business documents, I recommend her without hesitation. Her expertise, customer service, and dedication to excellence are second to none.

Thank you, Mya, for your outstanding work and commitment to our success. We look forward to working with you again in the future.

— Professor Al Hogan
Owner, Team Randori Martial Arts
Retired U.S. Army CW4 | Veteran-Owned Business Owner

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your detailed five star review for the FedBiz Access team consultant; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Rita Hibbard

2 weeks ago

Very good company.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your business and this five star google review for our FedBiz Access team. Thank you.

Allyson Collins

4 weeks ago

Elizabeth Whitaker was exceptional, very helpful and was always there whenever we need her, thank you Elizabeth for being the great person that you are. We at Collins Henry, LLC is very grateful to have her working on our behalf....

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of valuable service to your organization. Thank you for the recognition and the kind comments for our FedBiz Access specialist; We appreciate you.

Bryan Johnson

1 month ago

I had my own federal contracting consulting business for 25 years and I have to say Fed Biz Access is doing it right.

Michael Scanna

1 month ago

I cannot recommend the assistance Elizabeth and her team provided to me enough! The entire process was handled professionally, quickly, and with incredible attention to detail. What seemed overwhelming and confusing at first became simple and stress-free thanks to their guidance. They answered every question patiently, ensured all information was submitted correctly, and kept me informed every step of the way. Their knowledge of the SAM registration process saved me so much time and frustration. If you need reliable, efficient, and trustworthy help with SAM registration, this is absolutely the team to use!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and your time in leaving us this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team specialist. We appreciate your recommendation and detailed feedback on your experience with our dedicated team. We remain at your service, as needed.

Stacy Hall

2 months ago

Trying to update anything with a govenrment agency is always a nightmare. After fighting with Sam.gov for weeks and getting nowhere, we reached out to Constance for help. She has made this SO much easier on us and gotten our account active again.

Response from the owner:Taking the frustration out of these somewhat cumbersome processes is at the center of our expertise. As changes continue within the government workplace, platforms and procedures, our team stays vigilant and current in our quest for a fruitful and pleasant customer experience. Thank you for the opportunity to assist.

Justin Moore

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker with FedBiz Access has been great. She has taken her time with us to customize her services directly to what we need. She is very professional and knowledgeable. Further, she is very proactive and highly responsive in our communications. We enjoy our experience working with Elizabeth and her team. We would highly recommend using Elizabeth at FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance as needed with your government contracting needs; very much appreciate your positive feedback and five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist and your recommendation of our services.

Minerva Finishes

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker has been so very helpful to us. We are a very small business attempting to navigate the Government Contracts process. Elizabeth is quite knowledgeable, easy to understand and patient.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist and this five star google review for our Company. Look forward to assisting you as needed in the future.

Lynn Tyler

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker helped me get my recertification. She made the process painless. She also helped me update my SAM.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and positive feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist. Congratulations on your recent recertification, and thank you for the opportunity to assist you in that process.

Schimpf's Garage

2 months ago

Cecilia and Sid go well above and beyond to assist me with registering my business with the VA and updating my profile with relevant business changes. Additionally, Frank is a master of contracting and has assisted us in navigating FedBiz's contracting databases and in reviewing proposed bids and contracts. I highly recommend this team to anyone seeking to register their business with the VA and applying for government contracts!

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your recent bid award, we appreciate the recognition of the FedBiz Access services and consultants in assisting you in that endeavor. More importantly, thank you for your service to our country! We value your recommendation, as always, a pleasure to assist with your government contracting goals, registrations and awards.

Jordan Erwin

2 months ago

Super easy to work with and always very friendly. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your continued business and your trust in the FedBiz Access team; Looking forward to being of valuable service as needed with your marketing and government contracting goals.

Ray Gould

2 months ago

Elizabeth Whittaker
handled our request for SDVOSB very efficiently
and we are most grateful for her assistance.
sincerely, ray gould Marine & Valve Supply

Response from the owner:Congratulations on your SDVOSB Award and thank you for the opportunity to assist in that endeavor on your behalf. We are excited for your success!

Kati Gibbs

2 months ago

Love working with FedBiz! They are so communicative and helpful. Constance is such a pleasure to work with in getting our SBA profile set up, Lou is amazing at setting us up in FedBiz, and Frank is very informative when training us on FedBiz365. I highly recommend FedBiz!

Response from the owner:Love the Love! Thank you for sharing your positive experiences with the FedBiz Access team via this five star google review. More importantly, thank you for the opportunity to share value and assist with your government contracting needs.

george bianchi

2 months ago

Since we’ve had such a positive experience with the team at FedBiz Access in the past, we decided to seek their guidance and support for our nonprofit’s latest project involving government and canine-related initiatives.

Once again, the FedBiz Access team did not disappoint. They directed us to the most effective and efficient way to move forward through the appropriate channels.

We want to thank Frank and the entire FedBiz Access team for providing clear, comprehensive, and valuable information during our consultation.

We would highly recommend FedBiz Access.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your continued business and feedback for the FedBiz Access team. Thank you for your recommendation, we look forward to assisting you in the future.

John Diaz

3 months ago

Mya works very accurately and delivers high-quality work in creating our Capability Statement for the GSA organization. Highly recommend her and her organization, FEDBIZACCESS.

Response from the owner:We appreciate your feedback; Thank you for your recommendation and five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to assist! Thank you for your business.

Sandra Chen

3 months ago

Ashley Futral is exceptionally helpful, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to collaborate with. Her efficiency and swift communication have been invaluable, and I greatly appreciate her guidance throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist; our pleasure to be of service as needed.

Jacqueline Winter

3 months ago

FedBiz makes renewals so easy and simple which is great as when doing it directly with the gov't is so much more complicated! It was great working with Ashley Futral on on our latest renewal - she saved me so much time! She also helped sort out issues that came up with SAM that I don't think we could have solved on our own. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Very Much Appreciated. We value your loyalty and repeat business over the years. Thank you for allowing us to assist; Fed Biz Access is at your service for all your government contracting needs, from registration to award.

Tara Goldsby

3 months ago

Ashley Futral was extremely helpful with renewing our sam.gov entity registration. She was always prompt with responding to emails and made the process go smoothly.

Response from the owner:Thank you. We appreciate your feedback and repeat business with our agency year after year. Our FedBiz Access government contracting assistance team aims high for your satisfaction and results. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Chris Ramey

4 months ago

Ashley is on another level!!! Very knowledgeable and helpful. Great to work with year over year!! Thumbs Up!!!!!!!

Response from the owner:We appreciate your comments and thank you for your repeat business and the thumbs up for our FedBiz Access government contracting consultants.

Jay Reyes

4 months ago

Ashley Futral and the team at FedBiz Access provided outstanding support throughout my certification process. As the owner of a disabled veteran-owned logistics company, navigating the requirements can be complex—but Ashley made it seamless. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and deep knowledge of the process helped position my company for success in the government contracting space. Highly recommended for any business looking to grow strategically.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your service to our country. Our pleasure to assist and be of value to your organization in your government contracting goals.

Torland Wingfield

4 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with FedBiz on my SBA Disabled Veteran Owned Company Certification. Ashley was simply amazing, using her knowledge and professional approach to get the job done. She checked on me constantly providing weekly updates and worked all issues that came up during the process. I even received a call from her when the certification was approved. This is a great company that I give my strongest recommendation.

Response from the owner:Thank you for recognizing our FedBiz Access team's efforts on your behalf with this five star review and your positive feedback. We value your business and satisfaction.

Ice King LLC

4 months ago

Elizabeth Whitaker made our SAM renewal process quick and easy! We enjoyed working with her and the entire FedBiz Team. They have been great folks to work with and took sooooo much drama out of the process. Quick to respond to all our questions and we truly feel they want our business to succeed. Highly recommend !!!

Response from the owner:Thank you very much for the opportunity to assist. We value your recommendation and google five star review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team!!!

John Foster

4 months ago

Mya was great with communications throughout the project. She has outstanding graphics and document creation ability.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your design and marketing needs; we appreciate your business and five star review feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Heridel Guadarrama

4 months ago

thanks Cassie for everything !!

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist!

Jim Dragon

5 months ago

While working with FedBiz Access to update our cage code was an extremely easy worry-free process. Elizabeth was great to work with.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the opportunity to be of service; we appreciate your business and your five star google review and feedback for the FedBiz Access team specialist.

Jon Urban

5 months ago

2025/2026 UPDATE: Cassie and her team at FedBizAccess continue to provide us with professional and reliable support for SAM registration and other government contracting needs.

2024 UPDATE: We continue to rely on FedBizAccess to help us stay on top of our SAM registration. Thanks again for making this an easy process for us, Cassie!

Original Review: We hired FedBizAccess several years ago to help us manage our federal contractor profile through the SAM database. Throughout the years they have been quick to respond to our requests. The past few years more of our focus has been outside the federal contracting arena and we hadn’t required their help. This year, though, we hit a snag renewing our SAM profile since we had a slight change in our company name. We reached out to FBA for help, and Cassie Elbanay responded immediately. She has been critical in helping us navigate the process. She is very knowledgeable, personable, and an overall professional. We are confident work will be done correctly and successfully when Cassie and her team are on the case. It has been a pleasure working with her, and I look forward to continuing our firm’s partnership with her and her team at FBA.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your time and effort in detailing your successful business relationship with our company and staff. Always here to assist as you need us. Thank you for your repeat business and this five star review for FedBiz Access, our amazing staff and your dedicated specialist. We appreciate your vote of confidence and the recognition of our expertise and long standing experience in the government contracting industry.

Alfonso Betts

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay at FedBizAccess was extremely helpful in resolving my issue in SAM. Her knowledge and expertise with the SAM system made the process smooth and efficient—it was handled within minutes. It’s truly a pleasure working with such a knowledgeable and responsive team at FedBizAccess. I greatly appreciate the support and professionalism.

Response from the owner:We are thankful for your repeat business and loyalty to the FedBiz Access team and specialist(s). Its important for us to hear your five star google confirmation of the excellent support and professionalism we strive to maintain. Thank you again for your time in posting this review.

Milissa Fowler

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay was extremely valuable and I could not ask for an easier process. The amount of time and frustration she saved me was priceless. Amazing!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your amazing review and feedback. We aim for an easy and seamless process as much as possible. Thank you for your business and recognition of our FedBiz Access team specialist's efforts on your behalf. We appreciate it.

Joyce Kamau

5 months ago

Working with Cassie at FedBiz on our SAM registration renewal was a great experience. She was patient, thorough, and proactive in addressing potential issues before submission. Cassie expertise helped us avoid delays and ensured our registration was completed efficiently. Cassie is not only highly competent but also wonderful to work with throughout the process.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the detailed account of your great experience with the FedBiz Access team specialist and thank you for your repeat business. We value your feedback and strive to maintain this proactive approach for best and consistent results. We appreciate your recognition.

Brennan Champion

5 months ago

Cassie Elbanay and the FedBiz Access team were exceptional throughout our SAM registration process. Cassie went above and beyond at every step, providing clear guidance that made what can be a complex process feel straightforward. We would absolutely recommend Cassie and FedBiz Access to anyone navigating SAM registrations.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to be of service year after year. We appreciate your feedback and recognition for the FedBiz Access team and consultant and look forward to continue providing exceptional service and clear guidance.

Thomas Esposito

5 months ago

I had the pleasure of working with Mya, she brought my vision to life and we could not be happier with her work.

Response from the owner:Always a pleasure to be able to bring your vision to life. Thank you for the opportunity to provide marketing and design support for your government contracting needs. Thank you for this five star review for the FedBiz Access team specialist as well.

Tamarah

5 months ago

I had a positive experience working with FedBiz and appreciated the guidance and communication provided during the process. Sidney was responsive and supportive, and I’m grateful for the assistance and encouragement along the way.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to continue being of service as needed. Thank you for the opportunity to assist with your government contacting goals.

Cami Allen

6 months ago

Ashley was super helpful, professional and timely. The support we receive from FebBiz Access is so helpful in helping us keep current and updated in a sometimes difficult to navigate government world.

Chris Merrill

7 months ago

Cassie and Fedbiz were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive throughout the entire process from our initial inquiry through the submission. They made the renewal process easy and fast for us to get through.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to keep up the good work:) thank you for the opportunity to assist; we appreciate your business and your positive feedback via this five star google review for our FedBiz team specialist.

Jeff Lindsey

7 months ago

I've been working with FedBiz Access for years now. Cassie does a wonderful job of making the process easy and quick. She is the best! Thanks, Cassie!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team and specialist. Our pleasure to be of consistent and valuable service to your organization.

Tommy Bohler

7 months ago

Cassie was very helpful throughout the whole renewal process with our municipality and also followed up with assistance on a change in our bank accounts. She was super responsive and took care of our problem almost immediately.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to provide efficient and valuable guidance as needed. Looking forward to maintaing this level of service at your direction. Thank you for your five star feedback for our team.

John Anderson

7 months ago

Mya did a great job. We completed the capabilities statement in two attempts. On the second attempt, I provided her with some of our pictures, and she embedded them in our statement.

Response from the owner:Our pleasure to assist and create a compelling and appealing visual representation of your govcon capabilities. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.

Rifles Only

7 months ago

Cassie made renewing our SAMS registration quick and efficient, and maintained great communication with us.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your repeat business and your five star google review for the FedBiz Access team consultant. Here as you need us!

arnoldo renteria

7 months ago

This team is highly professional and truly knows how to get things done. I am very pleased to have achieved my objective thanks to their support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your business and this five star google review for the FedBiz Access team; looking forward to continuing working with your objectives and goals for government contracting success.

Harold Quinones

7 months ago

Very easy to work with, knowledgeable, and absolutely handled on your behalf. Recommended.

Response from the owner:Appreciate your business and your recommendation. Thank you very much for this five star Google review for the FedBiz Access team.

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