Small Business

A newly established Colorado LLC is seeking its first subcontract, drawing on its founder’s five years of contractor experience on Department of Homeland Security and Department of Veterans Affairs projects. The advice emphasizes stronger SAM and DSBS profiles, targeted outreach to agency primes, and planning for payment delays of 30–60 days or longer; no active solicitation or award is identified.

New LLCs entering government contracting are advised to register in SAM.gov, identify relevant NAICS codes, pursue any SBA certifications for which they qualify, and prepare a capability statement. A focused buyer strategy, subcontracting or smaller purchases to build past performance, and support from APEX Accelerators can help firms pursue opportunities while planning for a possible 12–24-month wait for a first award.

The **Department of Defense** began phasing Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification requirements into applicable contracts in November 2025, with implementation planned over three years. Reported gaps between small manufacturers’ self-assessments and assessment results underscore the need for documented CUI scoping, early remediation, and prime-contractor oversight of subcontractors.

ATI Government Solutions is challenging the SBA’s extension of its suspension from federal contracting, including the 8(a) program, after an administrative judge found gaps in the agency’s record. ATI says the suspension has cost nearly $130 million in canceled contracts and more than $500 million in prospective business; those figures are company claims, not adjudicated findings.

Supplier Development Programme (SDP) Scotland will host a beginner-level webinar on November 11, 2026, for businesses exploring the Scottish public-sector marketplace. The session will cover procurement routes, opportunity discovery, pipeline development, and pre-engagement, offering an entry point for suppliers without prior bidding experience.

NASA has released the final solicitation for a five-year, $425 million small-business recompete supporting Earth science research and computing at Goddard Space Flight Center. Proposals are due December 4, 2026; bidders should assess NAICS 541715 eligibility, prepare for both cost-plus-fixed-fee and firm-fixed-price task orders, and submit questions by November 4.

The SBA referred 689 firms removed from the 8(a) Business Development Program to GSA for review of federal contracts with a collective ceiling of $5.5 billion. The audit will assess potential fraud and compliance issues, including false statements, pass-through arrangements, and financial misrepresentation; the figure is not a new award or funding commitment.

The U.S. Army released draft solicitations for two Human Resources Solutions GEN VI multiple-award contracts with combined ceilings of $7.59 billion and potential 10-year terms. Comments are due October 26, 2026, giving small businesses a near-term opportunity to shape the $1.5 billion RMAS set-aside and all eligible firms a chance to assess the $6.09 billion full-and-open PLS competition.

Air Force Materiel Command reports obligating nearly all of its $49.8 billion in FY2026 investment funding for programs including the F-47, Collaborative Combat Aircraft, Sentinel, B-21 Raider and advanced munitions. Small businesses received $10.4 billion, including more than $2 billion in Phase III SBIR/STTR awards and more than $224 million through OTAs; these figures indicate investment activity, not open solicitations or guaranteed future awards.

The UK Ministry of Defence is replacing a slow, costly procurement model with segmented processes and new commercial pathways aimed at faster acquisition in areas such as software and drones. The changes are intended to widen access for SMEs and innovators, reshaping routes to market but presenting no specific solicitation or immediate bid opportunity.

BMO is increasing its defence-sector focus as Canada signals higher defence spending, including a plan to mobilize up to $70 billion over 10 years for multiple priority sectors. CIBC and TD have announced separate financing commitments, creating potential capital sources for suppliers—but these are private-sector commitments, not government contract awards or guaranteed demand.

GSA’s Public Buildings Service is using an industry day to engage businesses on anticipated facility-management contracts in eight states and contracting Zones 5, 6, and 7. The work may cover custodial, facilities engineering and operations, and grounds services, with competition anticipated through the 561210FAC Facilities Maintenance and Management Schedule as an SBA set-aside; no solicitation or event logistics are provided.

The GSA Office of Small Business will host a free online webinar on November 6, 2026, covering the Multiple Award Schedule Program, Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts, subcontracting, and GSA’s contracting forecast. The educational session is not a solicitation, but may help vendors identify routes to pursue future federal work and locate forecasted opportunities.

Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) are struggling to secure Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) parts contracts due to competition from larger entities. Common suggestions from the community include diversifying sourcing strategies and pursuing training to improve contract wins.

North Carolina’s FY2027 One North Carolina Small Business Program allocates $2.13 million to support tech-based small businesses with federal Phase I SBIR/STTR grants. This funding includes both application-preparation incentives and matching grants, emphasizing the state’s commitment to fostering innovation.

Louisiana contractors express concerns over proposed IT subcontract terms including non-circumvention clauses. These clauses may restrict future opportunities for small businesses and affect staffing plans during recompetes, potentially impacting competition and agency relations.

New subcontractors can gain visibility by promptly responding to ITBs and maintaining up-to-date profiles. Engaging in industry events and utilizing platforms like GovSeek can enhance partnerships with prime contractors.

The newly launched APEX Accelerator in Rockford provides vital training and resources to local businesses seeking government contracts. This initiative significantly enhances the ability of small firms in northern Illinois to engage effectively in public-sector procurement.

Red One Medical has been awarded a position on NASA's SEWP VI Category C contract, expanding its federal contracting capabilities for IT services. This long-term contract, effective from November 1, 2026, opens opportunities for enhanced service delivery across various government agencies.

On October 1, 2026, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced an expansion of the city’s Contract Financing Program, aiming to support small businesses in accessing government contracts. Funded by **$1 million** from **Banc of California**, this initiative will especially benefit companies involved in upcoming events like the **2028 Olympics**.

Senators introduce the Startup Opportunity Accelerator Act, proposing $80 million annually over 10 years for small business support organizations. This program aims to enhance access to resources for early-stage businesses in underserved communities but is not currently open for applications.

The Erie County Government is considering a Small Business Enterprise Law to bolster participation from local small businesses in procurement processes. This initiative addresses disparities in county contracts and promotes equitable competition among Erie County's 20,000+ small businesses.

Indonesia's Trade Ministry leads initiatives to digitalize traditional markets, enhancing vendor competitiveness. Nearly 7,000 markets and over 300,000 vendors receive support in modernizing trade practices. This marks significant procurement opportunities for technology providers and service firms in e-commerce and market integration.

The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has allocated **$20 million** in SBIR/STTR grants to promote innovation in agriculture. This funding will help small businesses tackle challenges across multiple sectors, paving the way for new technologies and services that align with USDA’s goals of sustainability and rural development.

Connecticut has launched a tax credit to help small businesses manage health insurance costs through ICHRA. This initiative aims to boost health coverage accessibility for employers with fewer than 50 employees, potentially increasing demand for health insurance services in the state.

The FAR Council has proposed significant regulatory changes to streamline federal procurement processes, focusing on commercial acquisitions and negotiated procurements. Public comments are being invited until October 19, 2026, allowing industry stakeholders to engage in shaping these impactful reforms.

The Small Business Administration is revamping its small business size standards to market-based metrics, which experts describe as a 'seismic' shift. This change may significantly affect small business eligibility for government contracts, influencing procurement strategies across the federal landscape.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) have launched CHOICE Arrangements, originally known as ICHRAs, to enhance health benefits for small businesses. This initiative offers a more flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional employer health plans, fostering scalability and affordability for small employers nationwide.

The Arkansas National Guard has awarded a catering contract to Our Healthy Communities for its youth summer camps. This development emphasizes the potential for small nonprofits to engage in government procurement, expanding opportunities beyond traditional defense contracts.

Bell County, Texas, is launching a series of contract renewals across various sectors, including construction, technology, and public safety. This presents significant opportunities for small and local businesses to secure government contracts and expand their market reach. Procurement professionals should monitor upcoming solicitations to engage in competitive bidding.

PrimeSync has raised concerns regarding the allocation of small business set-asides to large contractor affiliates, suggesting this practice undermines small business opportunities. This critique may prompt a reevaluation of set-aside policies and enforcement efforts to ensure these contracts genuinely serve independent small businesses.

The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) is holding a networking event on November 5, 2026, aimed at connecting small businesses with key defense stakeholders. This initiative presents valuable procurement opportunities for small businesses looking to engage with USSOCOM contracting activities and prime contractors.

The GSA's Office of Small Business is offering webinars in September to help small businesses improve their federal contracting skills. These sessions, in collaboration with USFCR, will address essential areas like contract forecasting and capabilities statement development, promoting increased participation in federal procurement.

The NSW government is considering tax reforms to support small businesses facing rising operational costs. Proposed changes include raising payroll tax thresholds and reducing rates, likely impacting future procurement practices across the state.

The Australian Coalition, led by Shadow Small Business Minister Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, firmly opposes a proposed minimum 30% tax on discretionary trusts aimed at small businesses. If implemented, this could lead to increased operational costs and significant restructuring within the sector.

Collaborative Shared Technologies LLC, a WOSB and SDVOSB, is expanding its capabilities in AI governance and Microsoft technologies. This growth emphasizes the company's commitment to supporting federal agencies in responsible AI adoption and digital workforce innovation, presenting new procurement opportunities.

The **Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division** will hold a Virtual Industry Day on August 26, 2026, focused on **CMMC requirements** and small business opportunities. This session is crucial for contractors to align with NSWC IHD’s acquisition strategies and enhance their **cybersecurity compliance**.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $249 million IDIQ contract for environmental remediation services, set aside for small businesses. This contract emphasizes the Department of Defense's focus on sustainable practices while providing opportunities for competitively bidding on task orders.

The U.S. Coast Guard is set to issue a solicitation on August 17, 2026, for a $100 million IT services contract aimed at supporting legacy and custom applications. This opportunity, focused on small businesses, reflects continued investment in IT infrastructure modernization and cybersecurity.

The Department of Defense is assessing the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program following a new 60-day review. This review halts the implementation of Phase 2 requirements, allowing for industry feedback on compliance costs and burdens. Contractors, especially small firms, should prepare for potential regulatory shifts that could affect contract eligibility and operations.

The U.S. Air Force is prioritizing partnerships with small and mid-sized businesses to improve logistics and readiness capabilities. A significant investment of $102 billion is allocated for Operations & Maintenance in FY 2027, indicating a strong demand for innovative solutions in supply chain and maintenance operations.

The House advances H.R. 4123, aimed at reforming federal acquisition policies. The bill proposes streamlined procurement processes and training for acquisition professionals, enhancing opportunities for small businesses in technology contracts.

The 2026 Governor's Small Business Summit on July 23 will connect small businesses with vital resources and networking opportunities. This summit presents procurement professionals with a unique chance to engage with emerging businesses poised to enter the government contracting space in Central Texas.

The Marine Institute and Vimy Forge have signed a partnership agreement to promote defence innovation and support SMEs in Newfoundland and Labrador. This initiative improves access to testing facilities and procurement pathways, enhancing regional capabilities in the defence sector.

The SBA supports suspending certain cybersecurity requirements for small defense contractors to ease compliance burdens. This could save nearly 38,000 contractors up to **$6 billion** annually, fostering innovation and enhancing their competitiveness in the defense sector.

The Department of Defense has suspended CMMC Phase II third-party assessments, addressing small contractors' cost concerns. Despite the pause, compliance with existing cybersecurity mandates remains essential, presenting both challenges and opportunities for defense contractors.

The Department of Defense has paused the CMMC Phase II implementation due to high compliance costs for small contractors. This 60-day review aims to reform the program, shifting from mandatory audits to self-assessments, thus reducing barriers for small businesses vital to national defense.

The Department of War has suspended the CMMC Phase II requirements, impacting third-party assessments for contractors managing Controlled Unclassified Information. This move aims to ease compliance costs for small and medium businesses while ensuring adherence to NIST cybersecurity standards, indicating potential shifts in the cybersecurity certification landscape.

The Department of War has suspended CMMC Level 2 requirements while initiating a 60-day review. This decision is significant for small defense contractors, as it aims to alleviate compliance burdens that challenge their ability to compete for contracts.

The Department of War has halted its CMMC Phase II requirements, addressing compliance concerns. This decision aims to alleviate cost pressures on over 100,000 small defense contractors, promoting their participation within the Defense Industrial Base while ensuring cybersecurity standards are upheld.