GovCon Acronym Decoder
Government contracting runs on shorthand. Search any acronym and get a plain-English definition, when you will run into it, whether you need one, and where it comes from.
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5 of 172 terms matching "OCI"
Organizational Conflict of Interest
A situation where your other work gives you an unfair competitive advantage or impairs your objectivity, such as writing requirements and then bidding on them.
When you see it
In solicitation representations and in mitigation plans required before award.
Do you need it
You must disclose potential OCIs and often submit a mitigation plan. An unmitigated OCI can disqualify you.
Where it comes from
FAR Subpart 9.5.
Organizational Conflict of Interest
A situation where your other work gives you an unfair competitive advantage or impairs your objectivity, such as writing requirements and then bidding on them.
When you see it
In solicitation representations and in mitigation plans required before award.
Do you need it
You must disclose potential OCIs and often submit a mitigation plan. An unmitigated OCI can disqualify you.
Where it comes from
FAR Subpart 9.5.
Social Security Administration
Buys IT, facilities, and administrative services.
When you see it
In solicitation headers, forecasts, and outreach events. Knowing which component inside the agency actually buys what you sell is the real work.
Do you need it
If this agency buys what you sell, start with their small business office. They publish forecasts, host outreach, and will take a capability briefing.
Where it comes from
Federal agency. Small business support runs through their OSDBU or equivalent office.
8(a) Business Development Program
A nine-year SBA development program for socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses. Participants can receive sole source and set-aside awards.
When you see it
On set-aside solicitations and in sole source awards up to specific thresholds.
Do you need it
Only if you qualify. It is the most powerful certification if you use it with a plan.
Where it comes from
SBA certification.
Small Business Administration
The federal agency that sets size standards, runs the socioeconomic certification programs, and advocates for small business across government.
When you see it
Everywhere size status, certifications, and set-asides come up.
Do you need it
Yes. Your certifications and size status all trace back to SBA rules.
Where it comes from
U.S. Small Business Administration.
Small Disadvantaged Business
A small business at least 51 percent owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
When you see it
In agency goaling and subcontracting plans.
Do you need it
It is a self-certified status unless you are in the 8(a) program.
Where it comes from
SBA.
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