Reviving American Industry: What the SBA’s ‘Made in America Manufacturing Initiative’ Means for Government Contractors

A new chapter in American manufacturing is here—and if you’re a government contractor, it’s one you’ll want to be part of.

On March 10, 2025, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched a major initiative designed to bring American-made manufacturing back to the forefront of our economy. Titled the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, this nationwide effort promises to cut regulatory burdens, expand access to capital, and put small manufacturers in the spotlight as key players in both economic recovery and national security.

But what does that mean for government contractors like you?

The answer: opportunity. A lot of it.

This isn’t just another press release or political talking point—it’s a strategic, top-down push to prioritize domestic manufacturing, especially small businesses, across the federal procurement ecosystem. That means more resources, fewer barriers, and a clearer path for small and mid-sized manufacturers to win government contracts.

Let’s unpack the initiative, explore how it benefits contractors, and explain what you can do right now to get ahead.

What Is the SBA’s Made in America Manufacturing Initiative?

The initiative, announced by SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler, supports President Trump’s broader manufacturing agenda: rebuilding supply chains, strengthening national security, and sparking a “blue-collar boom” across America.

And the timing couldn’t be better. Small manufacturers make up 99% of U.S. manufacturing firms. They’ve often been overshadowed by larger corporations in federal contracting—but that’s changing.

The Made in America Manufacturing Initiative is all about putting those small manufacturers front and center.

Here’s what the initiative includes:

• $100 Billion in Regulatory Relief: Through the SBA’s Office of Advocacy, outdated or burdensome rules that hurt small manufacturers are being eliminated.
• A National Red Tape Hotline: A new channel for small businesses to report specific regulations that slow them down.
• New Office of Manufacturing and Trade: A dedicated SBA division offering hands-on support, training, and guidance to small manufacturers.
• Expanded Access to Capital: Especially through the 504 loan program for real estate and equipment, and the 7(a) Working Capital Pilot for inventory and export financing.
• Workforce Development: In partnership with trade schools, federal agencies, and private companies to ensure a pipeline of skilled labor.
• Supportive Policies: Including tax cuts, tariffs to ensure fair trade, and 100% capital expensing for manufacturers retroactive to January 20, 2025.
• Made in America Roadshow: SBA officials will meet directly with manufacturers across the country to listen, learn, and engage.

This initiative isn’t just about empowering small manufacturers in the private sector—it’s about making them a go-to supplier base for government needs.

Why Government Contractors Should Pay Attention

If you’re already in the federal space—or thinking about entering—this initiative could reshape your competitive landscape.

Here’s how:

✅ 1. Government Preference for American-Made Goods Is Growing

The push to secure domestic supply chains is stronger than ever. Agencies are being encouraged (and in some cases required) to source American-made products, especially in critical sectors like aerospace, defense, energy, healthcare, and infrastructure.

This means government contractors who manufacture or source domestically will have a major edge in the months and years ahead.

If you can prove your goods are made in the USA, you’re no longer just compliant—you’re in demand.

✅ 2. Less Red Tape = Easier Entry Into Contracting

Regulatory overload has long been one of the biggest hurdles for small businesses trying to enter the federal marketplace. The SBA’s goal to cut $100 billion in regulation is more than symbolic—it’s a real, quantifiable effort to make procurement more accessible.

Add in the new Red Tape Hotline, and you’ve got a two-way channel to influence future reforms. That’s an unprecedented level of access and responsiveness from federal agencies.

The takeaway: Fewer hoops to jump through = more time spent delivering and less time decoding compliance checklists.

✅ 3. New Office of Manufacturing and Trade = More Support for Contractors

This isn’t just a policy update—it’s structural. The newly launched Office of Manufacturing and Trade is now embedded within the SBA and tasked specifically with supporting small manufacturers.

In practice, that means:

• Training on government contracting
• Resources for navigating the procurement process
• Local support from SBA field offices in every state

Think of it as a concierge desk for small manufacturers looking to do business with the government. The more hands-on guidance you have, the easier it becomes to break into or expand in federal contracting.

✅ 4. Better Access to Capital to Grow Your GovCon Readiness

Let’s be honest—federal contracts often require upfront capital. You may need to purchase equipment, expand a facility, or cover payroll before the first invoice ever gets paid.

That’s where the expanded SBA lending programs come in:

• 504 Loan Program: Perfect for financing major assets like machinery or production facilities.
• 7(a) Working Capital Pilot: Designed to help with inventory and international expansion—ideal if you’re planning to export or scale operations.

And because these are zero-subsidy programs, they’re self-sustaining and not subject to political funding swings.

✅ 5. Federal Tax Incentives and Tariff Protections Help Domestic Contractors Compete

If you’ve ever lost a federal bid to an overseas supplier due to pricing, you’re not alone. The new manufacturing agenda aims to change that by:

• Lowering taxes on domestic manufacturing
• Allowing 100% expensing of capital investments
• Imposing tariffs to ensure fair and reciprocal trade

That means the playing field is being leveled—and in many cases, tilted in favor of domestic small businesses.

These financial incentives can significantly improve your bottom line, making your pricing more competitive without cutting corners.

✅ 6. You’ll Be Part of a National Conversation

The Made in America Roadshow is not just for show. It’s an open invitation for small manufacturers to shape how this initiative unfolds.

These SBA-led roundtables and events give you a chance to:

• Meet with SBA and agency decision-makers
• Learn what’s coming down the pipeline
• Share the challenges you face—and the support you need

When was the last time federal leadership asked for your feedback in person?

Now’s your chance to help shape the programs and policies that directly affect your ability to grow in the government space.

How to Prepare for the Opportunity

This all sounds promising—but what should you do now to capitalize on it?

Here’s your action plan:

✅ Confirm Your NAICS Codes

Make sure your SAM.gov registration reflects accurate manufacturing-related NAICS codes. Incorrect or outdated codes can keep you hidden from contracting officers searching for suppliers like you.

✅ Optimize Your SAM and DSBS Profiles

Agencies won’t call you if they can’t find you. Make sure your registration is not only active but optimized to highlight your capabilities, past performance, and domestic manufacturing footprint.

✅ Create or Update Your Capability Statement

This is your government business resume. Make sure it includes:

• Clear mention of your manufacturing capabilities
• Any certifications (ISO, SBA 8(a), HUBZone, etc.)
• Made in America language that aligns with agency goals

✅ Get on a GSA Schedule

With federal buying becoming more centralized and streamlined, being on the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) is more important than ever.

FedBiz Access offers a comprehensive GSA Schedule Proposal Assistance Program. We handle the entire proposal preparation process—so you end up with a ready-to-submit GSA Schedule proposal that’s written to align with GSA review standards.

No guesswork. No lost time. Just a clear path to award.

✅ Explore Outreach Options to Connect With Buyers

Need help getting in front of the right federal buyers?

Our Federal Connections and MatchMaker outreach services are built to help you do just that. We connect you with contracting officers actively seeking suppliers in your space—so you’re not left waiting on SAM.gov listings alone.

Final Thoughts: This Is a Moment of Momentum

The Made in America Manufacturing Initiative isn’t just another government plan—it’s a call to action for small manufacturers to step up and claim their space in the federal supply chain.

With the right preparation and the right support, this initiative can serve as a springboard for long-term growth, expanded reach, and steady government revenue.

If you’re in manufacturing—or thinking of entering—this is your window.

Need Help Navigating the Government Marketplace?

At FedBiz Access, we’ve helped thousands of businesses successfully enter and grow in the federal marketplace over the past 24 years.

From SAM registrations and DSBS optimization, to GSA proposals, capability statements, and direct outreach to federal buyers—we’re your one-stop partner.

? Schedule a complimentary consultation with a FedBiz Specialist today
Let’s put your business in position to thrive under this new Made in America movement—together.