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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8 of 172 terms matching "SBA"
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 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.
SBA Mentor-Protege Program
An SBA program pairing a small business with a more experienced mentor, allowing joint ventures that can compete for small business set-asides.
When you see it
In teaming strategies for larger set-aside pursuits.
Do you need it
Only if you have a real mentor relationship and a growth plan behind it.
Where it comes from
SBA.
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.
Historically Underutilized Business Zone Program
An SBA certification for small businesses located in and employing residents of designated economically distressed areas.
When you see it
On HUBZone set-asides and in price evaluation preferences.
Do you need it
Only if your principal office and workforce meet the requirements.
Where it comes from
SBA certification.
Joint Venture
A formal legal entity formed by two or more firms to pursue specific work. SBA's mentor-protege JVs let a small business team with a larger firm and still bid as small.
When you see it
On pursuits too large for one small firm alone.
Do you need it
Only with a written agreement that meets SBA's specific content requirements.
Where it comes from
13 CFR 125.8 and related SBA rules.
Related terms
Procurement Center Representative
An SBA employee assigned to a buying activity who reviews acquisitions and pushes for small business set-asides.
When you see it
Behind the scenes on set-aside decisions. You can contact them directly.
Do you need it
A PCR can be a powerful advocate when a requirement is being bundled away from small business.
Where it comes from
U.S. Small Business Administration.
Related terms
Small Business Development Center
SBA-funded local centers offering free business advising, generally on the commercial side.
When you see it
When you need help with business planning, financing, or operations.
Do you need it
Useful complement to an APEX Accelerator.
Where it comes from
SBA.
Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business
A small business at least 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans. Certification is now handled by SBA.
When you see it
On SDVOSB set-asides government-wide and especially at VA.
Do you need it
Certification is required to win SDVOSB set-asides.
Where it comes from
SBA Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert).
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