SBA Announces Change to WOSB Contracting Program

More opportunities for Women-Owned Small Businesses expected.

Women-owned small businesses will have greater access to federal contracting opportunities as a result of changes included in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2013 (NDAA). The changes are specific to the U. S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Woman-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program. The legislation was signed by President Obama on January 3, 2013. NDAA removes "the set-aside caps" that have been in place since the program was launched two years ago. Prior to the enactment of this law, the contracts for women-owned and economically disadvantaged women-owned small businesses could not exceed $6.5 million for manufacturing contracts and $4 million for all other contracts. In addition, the new law requires SBA to conduct another study to identify and report industries that are underrepresented by women-owned small businesses. As a result, it is expected that more eligible women-owned small businesses may be able to participate in SBA's Women's Federal Contract Program. To learn more about the program and determine if you qualify, visit www.sba.gov/wosb.