The Journal

Reporting on supplier diversity.

Working coverage of certifications, corporate procurement, federal contracting, financing, and the operators making each work for diverse-owned businesses. Every piece checked against primary sources.

Find my certifications →

Small-Business

View all articles →

How to sell to Federal Communications Commission as a diverse small business

Federal Communications Commission is a major federal buyer with $400M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Veterans Health Administration as a diverse small business

Veterans Health Administration is a major federal buyer with $25B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Veterans Benefits Administration as a diverse small business

Veterans Benefits Administration is a major federal buyer with $1B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Defense Logistics Agency as a diverse small business

Defense Logistics Agency is a major federal buyer with $45B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to USDA Forest Service as a diverse small business

USDA Forest Service is a major federal buyer with $2B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to VA National Cemetery Administration as a diverse small business

VA National Cemetery Administration is a major federal buyer with $500M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the Department of Homeland Security: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

DHS obligated $9.9 billion to small businesses in FY2023 (38.21% of eligible dollars), the most in its history. Here is how registration, …

How to sell to FEMA: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

FEMA buys through SAM.gov and Unison Marketplace, runs a Small Business Program under the DHS OSDBU, and asks vendors to file an …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to Health and Human Services (HHS): registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

HHS buys across NIH, CDC, FDA, and CMS, and runs a Small Business Customer Experience office for vendors. Here is how to …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to HUD: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

HUD buys through SAM.gov and runs the standard federal set-asides. This guide covers registration, which socioeconomic certification to chase, where HUD posts …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to NASA: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

NASA runs its small-business work through the Office of Small Business Programs and posts opportunities on SAM.gov. Here is how to register, …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

USACE buys through district offices, not one central office. This guide walks the SAM.gov registration, the set-asides it uses (8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, …

How to sell to the U.S. Coast Guard: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The Coast Guard is a DHS buying component, not a Defense agency, and that changes where you look and who you call. …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the Department of Commerce: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The Department of Commerce runs most of its contracting through bureaus like NOAA, Census, and USPTO, and NOAA alone puts more than …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the U.S. Department of Defense: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

DoD bought $183 billion from small businesses in FY2024, 28.78% of eligible spend. Here is the actual path: SAM.gov registration, the set-asides …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the Department of Education: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The Department of Education buys against roughly $2.5 billion in estimated annual obligations, and its OSDBU exists to route small businesses into …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the Department of Energy: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

DOE runs roughly 80% of its procurement budget through Management & Operating contractors at the national labs and cleanup sites, which means …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the Department of the Interior: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

Interior put 60% of its eligible prime contract dollars with small businesses in FY2023. Here is how registration, set-asides, and the agency …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the Department of Justice: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The DOJ ran about $3.1 billion through small-business contracts in FY2024. Here is how its OSDBU works, which set-asides it uses, and …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Customs and Border Protection (CBP): registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

CBP buys through DHS, the largest federal agency to earn 15 straight A or A+ grades on SBA's small-business scorecard. Here is …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the U.S. Navy: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The Department of the Navy buys through a dozen separate commands, not one front door. This guide covers SAM.gov registration, which set-asides …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the USDA: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

USDA obligated more than $11 billion across 67,000 contract actions in FY2023 and aims to send 57.5% of contract dollars to small …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the U.S. Postal Service: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

USPS buys differently from every other federal agency. It is exempt from the FAR, runs its own rulebook, and registers suppliers through …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The VA buys differently than most agencies. Its Veterans First Contracting Program puts certified veteran-owned firms ahead of every other set-aside. Here …

How to write a federal contracting capability statement that gets read

A capability statement is a 1-2 page document that federal contracting officers and small business specialists use to evaluate vendors. Get the …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the Department of Labor: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

DOL spends roughly $2.2 billion a year buying goods and services, and it routes a large share to small and diverse firms. …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the U.S. Department of State: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

State spends on construction, embassy security, IT, and language services worldwide. Here is how a small or diverse business registers, finds the …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA): registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

DLA buys the fuel, food, parts, and medical supplies that keep the military running, and it does most of it through one …

Guide · 10 min

How to Get Past Performance When You Have None: Breaking the Catch-22

Federal agencies want past performance before they hand you a contract, and you can't get past performance without a contract. Here are …

· Mario Bailey

SBIR and STTR Grants: The Federal R&D Path for Small Businesses

SBIR and STTR are federal grant programs that pay small businesses to do R&D on problems the government needs solved. They are …

· Mario Bailey

Guide · 12 min

How to Bid on a Government Contract: Your First Proposal Step by Step

Found an opportunity on SAM.gov and wondering what to do with it? Here is exactly what happens from solicitation to award — …

· Mario Bailey

SAM.gov registration for diverse businesses: step-by-step guide

SAM.gov registration is required before you can receive a federal contract or grant above $10,000. The process takes 7-10 business days and …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to National Nuclear Security Administration as a diverse small business

National Nuclear Security Administration is a major federal buyer with $20B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Employment and Training Administration (DOL) as a diverse small business

Employment and Training Administration (DOL) is a major federal buyer with $2B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Federal Aviation Administration as a diverse small business

Federal Aviation Administration is a major federal buyer with $5B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Federal Bureau of Investigation as a diverse small business

Federal Bureau of Investigation is a major federal buyer with $3B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to US Patent and Trademark Office as a diverse small business

US Patent and Trademark Office is a major federal buyer with $600M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Food and Drug Administration as a diverse small business

Food and Drug Administration is a major federal buyer with $3B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Federal Emergency Management Agency as a diverse small business

Federal Emergency Management Agency is a major federal buyer with $8B+ annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Federal Highway Administration as a diverse small business

Federal Highway Administration is a major federal buyer with $48B annually in grants in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Food and Nutrition Service (USDA) as a diverse small business

Food and Nutrition Service (USDA) is a major federal buyer with $700M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Federal Transit Administration as a diverse small business

Federal Transit Administration is a major federal buyer with $20B annually in grants in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Health Resources and Services Administration as a diverse small business

Health Resources and Services Administration is a major federal buyer with $1B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Department of Housing and Urban Development as a diverse small business

Department of Housing and Urban Development is a major federal buyer with $1B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a diverse small business

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is a major federal buyer with $5B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Internal Revenue Service as a diverse small business

Internal Revenue Service is a major federal buyer with $3B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Maritime Administration as a diverse small business

Maritime Administration is a major federal buyer with $1B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get into …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency as a diverse small business

National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency is a major federal buyer with $2B in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get into …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to National Institutes of Health as a diverse small business

National Institutes of Health is a major federal buyer with $8B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to National Institute of Standards and Technology as a diverse small business

National Institute of Standards and Technology is a major federal buyer with $800M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as a diverse small business

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is a major federal buyer with $4B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to National Park Service as a diverse small business

National Park Service is a major federal buyer with $1.5B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Natural Resources Conservation Service as a diverse small business

Natural Resources Conservation Service is a major federal buyer with $500M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to National Science Foundation as a diverse small business

National Science Foundation is a major federal buyer with $2B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Office of the Comptroller of the Currency as a diverse small business

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency is a major federal buyer with $500M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Occupational Safety and Health Administration as a diverse small business

Occupational Safety and Health Administration is a major federal buyer with $300M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Rural Utilities Service (USDA) as a diverse small business

Rural Utilities Service (USDA) is a major federal buyer with $10B+ in loans in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Securities and Exchange Commission as a diverse small business

Securities and Exchange Commission is a major federal buyer with $700M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to US Special Operations Command as a diverse small business

US Special Operations Command is a major federal buyer with $3B+ annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Social Security Administration as a diverse small business

Social Security Administration is a major federal buyer with $2B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the EPA: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The EPA runs its own Acquisition Forecast Database and a vendor database that feeds its OSDBU and contracting officers. Here is how …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the FAA: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The FAA buys under its own Acquisition Management System, not the standard FAR, which changes how set-asides and registration work. Here is …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the GSA: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The GSA buys through SAM.gov, the Multiple Award Schedule, and socioeconomic set-asides. Here is the registration sequence, the goals that work in …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the NIH: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The NIH buys research support, lab services, and roughly $21 billion in IT through NITAAC. Here's how a small or diverse business …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the Social Security Administration: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

SSA buys through the Office of Acquisition and Grants and uses SAM.gov as its primary vendor database. Here's how its OSDBU works, …

VETS 2 GWAC: the SDVOSB IT contract guide

GSA's VETS 2 GWAC is one of the few large-dollar IT vehicles where only service-disabled and veteran-owned small businesses can compete. Here's …

· Mario Bailey

8(a) graduation: what happens when your 9-year term ends

Your 8(a) term runs exactly 9 years. On graduation day, sole-source eligibility ends, your set-aside contracts go to transition or re-compete, and …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the U.S. Treasury: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

Treasury buys through bureaus like the IRS, the Mint, and the BEP, and routes small-business work through its OSDBU. Here's how to …

· Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to the U.S. Air Force: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The Air Force runs its small-business work through the Department of the Air Force Office of Small Business Programs. Here is how …

· Maya Okonkwo

Alliant 2 GWAC: large IT services contracts and how to participate

Alliant 2 is one of the largest IT contract vehicles in the federal government. If you're a small or diverse business, you …

· Mario Bailey

A bid/no-bid framework for small federal contractors

Most small federal contractors lose because they bid too much, not too little. This framework gives you six factors to score before …

· Mario Bailey

Certifications for diverse construction contractors: DBE, MBE, WBE, SBE

Construction has the most fragmented certification system of any industry. This guide maps which certifications unlock which contracts, and in what order …

· Mario Bailey

Certifications for diverse energy and utility contractors: federal and state programs

Energy and utility contracting is one of the most certification-driven sectors for diverse small businesses. This guide breaks down which credentials matter, …

· Mario Bailey

Certifications for diverse IT service providers pursuing federal and corporate contracts

Federal and corporate IT buyers have specific vehicles and programs for diverse firms. The combination you pursue determines whether you're eligible for …

· Mario Bailey

Managing your CPARS rating: how it affects future federal work

Your CPARS record is a permanent performance transcript that contracting officers read before awarding new work. Here is what actually happens when …

· Mario Bailey

DCAA-compliant accounting for small government contractors: what you actually need

Most small contractors don't know they have an accounting problem until DCAA shows up unannounced. Here's what the agency checks, which systems …

· Mario Bailey

FAR overview for new federal contractors: the rules you need to know in year one

The Federal Acquisition Regulation runs to thousands of pages, but most small contractors get tripped up by the same dozen parts. Here's …

· Mario Bailey

Market research for federal contractors: finding what agencies plan to buy

Most federal contracts are decided well before the solicitation publishes. Here's how small business BD teams find opportunities at the planning stage, …

· Mario Bailey

Using FPDS to research your federal competitors before bidding

Every federal contract award since 2004 is public record. Here is how to mine that data to find your real competition before …

· Mario Bailey

Teaming agreements for federal contracts: what to include and what to avoid

A teaming agreement can get you into a federal contract you couldn't win alone. It can also hand your proprietary data to …

· Mario Bailey

Free alternatives to GovWin IQ for small businesses tracking federal opportunities

GovWin IQ is the industry standard for federal opportunity tracking, but its price tag starts at roughly $10,000 per year. Before you …

· Mario Bailey

GSA Advantage catalog: getting listed and generating orders

Getting on GSA Schedule is only half the work. Here's how to turn your contract into a catalog that federal buyers actually …

· Mario Bailey

GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS): getting on schedule as a diverse supplier

The GSA MAS puts your business in front of every federal buyer in the country. Here is what the application actually requires …

· Mario Bailey

8(a) joint ventures: how to form one and what the SBA actually requires

If a federal contract is too large for your 8(a) firm to win alone, a joint venture may let you compete anyway. …

· Mario Bailey

Federal resources specifically for minority-owned businesses pursuing government contracts

The federal government has built a specific set of programs, offices, and contracting set-asides for minority-owned businesses. Here is where they are …

· Mario Bailey

Federal contract novation: what happens when you acquire or are acquired

When a federal contractor gets acquired, the contracts stay with the original entity until the government formally agrees otherwise. Here's what the …

· Mario Bailey

OASIS+ GWAC: how to get on the contract and win task orders

GSA's OASIS+ replaced the original OASIS contract and is now the primary vehicle for professional services across the federal government. Here's how …

· Mario Bailey

What is the SBA mentor-protege program?

The SBA All Small Mentor-Protege Program pairs small businesses with larger, more experienced businesses for technical, financial, and management assistance. The key …

· Mario Bailey

How to become a Parsons Corporation diverse supplier

Parsons Corporation is a $6B+ defense and infrastructure prime with a formal small business subcontracting program. Here is how to get registered, …

· Mario Bailey

How to become a Textron diverse supplier

Textron is a $14B+ DoD prime contractor spanning Bell, Cessna, E-Z-GO, and Lycoming — and federal law requires it to maintain an …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the Department of Transportation: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The DOT spends through 11 operating administrations like the FAA and FHWA. This guide covers SAM.gov registration, the set-asides DOT uses, where …

How to sell to the U.S. Army: registration, set-asides, and the small-business path

The Army buys through SAM.gov and its Office of Small Business Programs, and it has historically routed more than 20% of contract …

How to sell to DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy as a diverse small business

DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is a major federal buyer with $5B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Transportation Security Administration as a diverse small business

Transportation Security Administration is a major federal buyer with $2B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the Department of Defense (DoD) as a diverse business

The Department of Defense is the single largest federal buyer at over $400 billion annually. Small businesses won $90.8 billion of that …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to the Small Business Administration (SBA) as a diverse business

The SBA certifies 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, and SDVOSB firms — and then buys IT, consulting, and professional services using those same certifications. …

· Mario Bailey

Federal resources specifically for women entrepreneurs pursuing government contracts

The federal government has set aside billions in contracts for women-owned small businesses, yet most eligible firms never tap in. Here's what …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Bureau of Land Management as a diverse small business

Bureau of Land Management is a major federal buyer with $1B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Bureau of Prisons as a diverse small business

Bureau of Prisons is a major federal buyer with $3B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Bureau of Reclamation as a diverse small business

Bureau of Reclamation is a major federal buyer with $3B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Customs and Border Protection as a diverse small business

Customs and Border Protection is a major federal buyer with $6B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a diverse small business

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a major federal buyer with $2B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to US Census Bureau as a diverse small business

US Census Bureau is a major federal buyer with $1.5B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency as a diverse small business

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is a major federal buyer with $2.5B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services as a diverse small business

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is a major federal buyer with $4B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency as a diverse small business

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency is a major federal buyer with $4B+ annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Drug Enforcement Administration as a diverse small business

Drug Enforcement Administration is a major federal buyer with $1.5B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Defense Intelligence Agency as a diverse small business

Defense Intelligence Agency is a major federal buyer with $3B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses get …

· Mario Bailey

How to sell to Defense Information Systems Agency as a diverse small business

Defense Information Systems Agency is a major federal buyer with $14B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small businesses …

· Mario Bailey

Federal set-aside contracts explained: how they work and who qualifies

Federal set-aside contracts restrict competition to businesses that hold specific certifications or meet specific criteria. When a contracting officer can find two …

· Mario Bailey

Maintaining HUBZone compliance after certification: what triggers recertification and audits

Getting HUBZone certified is the easy part. Staying certified requires tracking employee residency, monitoring your principal office address, and knowing exactly what …

· Mario Bailey

Choosing the right primary NAICS code for federal contracting (it affects what you win)

The NAICS code you list as primary on your SAM.gov registration determines which size standards apply to you and which set-aside pools …

· Mario Bailey

Past performance narratives for federal proposals: structure and what evaluators look for

A poorly structured past performance section can sink a technically strong proposal. Here is the format evaluators expect and the specifics that …

· Mario Bailey

How to read a federal Performance Work Statement before writing a proposal

The Performance Work Statement is the contract inside the solicitation. Read it wrong and your proposal answers the wrong question. Here is …

· Mario Bailey

POLARIS GWAC guide for WOSB and small business IT contractors

GSA's POLARIS contract is one of the few governmentwide acquisition vehicles built specifically for women-owned small businesses. Here's how to get on …

· Mario Bailey

Price-to-win analysis for federal contracts without a big budget

Large defense contractors pay analysts $500/hour to build price-to-win models. You can replicate most of that work with free federal databases and …

· Mario Bailey

Federal proposal color teams: pink, red, gold, and what each review catches

Color team reviews are the internal quality gates that separate winning proposals from compliant-but-losing ones. Here's what each team actually looks for …

· Mario Bailey

SAM.gov beyond registration: advanced features for finding federal contracts

Most small businesses treat SAM.gov as a one-time registration form. It's actually the federal government's primary procurement portal, and knowing how to …

· Mario Bailey

The 8(a) annual review: what SBA is looking for and how to prepare

Every 8(a) participant must submit an annual review package to SBA. Miss a benchmark or misread the business activity rules and you …

· Mario Bailey

SBA size determinations: how to calculate your size and what triggers a protest

Getting your size calculation wrong can cost you a federal contract — and a competitor who loses to you will often check …

· Mario Bailey

SBIR Phase I proposals: how to write a winning one without prior SBIR experience

SBIR Phase I awards typically run $150K–$300K to prove technical feasibility. Here's the exact structure agencies use to score proposals and what …

· Mario Bailey

NASA SEWP V: the IT contract every diverse tech supplier should know

SEWP V is one of the most-used IT contract vehicles in the federal government, with $20 billion in ceiling and orders flowing …

· Mario Bailey

Simplified acquisition procedures: winning federal contracts under $350,000

Between $15,000 and $350,000, contracting officers can skip most of the full procurement paperwork and award contracts faster. Most small businesses never …

· Mario Bailey

STARS III: getting on the small business IT contract (8a, WOSB, HUBZone, SDVOSB)

GSA's STARS III gives small IT firms a direct path to $50B in federal technology work. Here's how to get on the …

· Mario Bailey

Federal resources for veteran-owned businesses in government contracting

The federal government sets aside billions annually for veteran-owned businesses, but the programs, portals, and verification requirements are scattered across multiple agencies. …

· Mario Bailey

Win themes in federal proposal writing: what they are and how to use them

Most federal proposals describe capabilities. Win themes argue for selection. Here's how to identify the 3-5 discriminating reasons an evaluator should pick …

· Mario Bailey

When the 8(a) mentor-protege joint venture actually makes sense

The 8(a) mentor-protege program lets a small 8(a) firm joint venture with a large business mentor and bid on contracts the small …

· Mario Bailey

What is an APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC)?

APEX Accelerators are federally-funded assistance centers that help businesses compete for and win government contracts. They were rebranded from PTACs (Procurement Technical …

· Mario Bailey

Building past performance for federal contracting when you're starting from zero

Past performance is the chicken-and-egg problem in federal contracting. These seven paths let you build a credible record before you ever win …

· Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Wyoming: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wyoming-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Wisconsin: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wisconsin-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in West Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what West Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Washington: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Washington-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Vermont: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Vermont-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Utah: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Utah-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Texas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Texas-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Tennessee: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Tennessee-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in South Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in South Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Rhode Island: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Rhode Island-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Oregon: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oregon-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Oklahoma: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oklahoma-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Ohio: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Ohio-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in North Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in North Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in New York: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New York-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in New Mexico: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Mexico-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in New Jersey: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Jersey-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in New Hampshire: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Hampshire-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Nevada: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nevada-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Nebraska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nebraska-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Montana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Montana-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Missouri: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Missouri-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Mississippi: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Mississippi-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Minnesota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Minnesota-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Michigan: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Michigan-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Massachusetts: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Massachusetts-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Maryland: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maryland-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Maine: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maine-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Louisiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Louisiana-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Kentucky: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kentucky-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Kansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kansas-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Iowa: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Iowa-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Indiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Indiana-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Illinois: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Illinois-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Idaho: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Idaho-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Hawaii: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Hawaii-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Georgia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Georgia-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Florida: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Florida-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Delaware: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Delaware-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Connecticut: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Connecticut-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Colorado: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Colorado-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in California: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what California-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Arkansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arkansas-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Arizona: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arizona-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Alaska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alaska-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Alabama: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alabama-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Wyoming: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wyoming-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Wisconsin: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wisconsin-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in West Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what West Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Washington: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Washington-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Vermont: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Vermont-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Utah: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Utah-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Texas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Texas-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Tennessee: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Tennessee-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in South Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in South Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Rhode Island: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Rhode Island-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Oregon: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oregon-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Oklahoma: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oklahoma-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Ohio: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Ohio-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in North Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in North Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in New York: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New York-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in New Mexico: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Mexico-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in New Jersey: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Jersey-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in New Hampshire: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Hampshire-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Nevada: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nevada-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Nebraska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nebraska-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Montana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Montana-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Missouri: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Missouri-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Mississippi: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Mississippi-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Minnesota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Minnesota-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Michigan: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Michigan-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Massachusetts: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Massachusetts-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Maryland: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maryland-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Maine: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maine-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Louisiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Louisiana-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Kentucky: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kentucky-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Kansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kansas-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Iowa: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Iowa-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Indiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Indiana-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Illinois: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Illinois-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Idaho: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Idaho-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Hawaii: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Hawaii-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Georgia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Georgia-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Florida: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Florida-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Delaware: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Delaware-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Connecticut: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Connecticut-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Colorado: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Colorado-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in California: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what California-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Arkansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arkansas-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Arizona: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arizona-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Alaska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alaska-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Alabama: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alabama-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Wyoming: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wyoming-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Wisconsin: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wisconsin-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in West Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what West Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Washington: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Washington-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Vermont: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Vermont-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Utah: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Utah-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Texas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Texas-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Tennessee: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Tennessee-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in South Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in South Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Rhode Island: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Rhode Island-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Pennsylvania: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Pennsylvania-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Oregon: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oregon-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Oklahoma: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oklahoma-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Ohio: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Ohio-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in North Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in North Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in New York: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New York-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in New Mexico: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Mexico-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in New Jersey: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Jersey-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in New Hampshire: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Hampshire-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Nevada: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nevada-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Nebraska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nebraska-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Montana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Montana-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Missouri: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Missouri-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Mississippi: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Mississippi-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Minnesota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Minnesota-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Michigan: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Michigan-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Massachusetts: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Massachusetts-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Maryland: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maryland-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Maine: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maine-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Louisiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Louisiana-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Kentucky: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kentucky-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Kansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kansas-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Iowa: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Iowa-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Indiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Indiana-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Illinois: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Illinois-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Idaho: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Idaho-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Hawaii: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Hawaii-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Georgia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Georgia-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Florida: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Florida-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Delaware: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Delaware-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Connecticut: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Connecticut-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Colorado: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Colorado-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in California: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what California-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Arkansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arkansas-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Arizona: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arizona-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Alaska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alaska-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

8a certification in Alabama: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alabama-based businesses need to know about getting 8a certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SAM.gov exclusions: what gets a contractor debarred and how to clear it

An exclusion in SAM.gov shuts you out of every federal contract and most federally funded subcontracts instantly. Here is what causes them, …

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to sell to US Army Corps of Engineers as a diverse small business

US Army Corps of Engineers is a major federal buyer with $12B annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how diverse small …

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

Federal contract types explained: FFP, T&M, CPFF, IDIQ, and when each is used

The type of contract you sign determines who bears the risk when scope changes or costs run over. Here's what each of …

Jul 27, 2026 · Mario Bailey

Section L and M in federal RFPs: what they mean and how to use them

Most small businesses read Section C and skip straight to pricing. The contractors who win read Section L and M first, then …

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

The micro-purchase threshold: how small businesses win government work without proposals

Most small businesses chase RFPs and miss the $15,000 micro-purchase threshold, where federal agencies buy with a credit card and zero competition. …

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to set up sam.gov opportunity alerts for your NAICS codes

Most small businesses find out about federal contracts after the deadline has passed. Setting up SAM.gov opportunity alerts takes about 20 minutes …

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to Find Government Contracts in 2026: 7 Steps + Where to Look

Start at SAM.gov, register your entity, filter to set-asides your business qualifies for, then mine SBA SubNet, agency forecasts, and APEX Accelerators …

Jul 26, 2026 · Maya Okonkwo

How to sell to Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives as a diverse small business

Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives is a major federal buyer with $800M annually in annual procurement. This guide covers how …

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

Guide · 14 min

SBA 8(a) Certification: The Complete 2026 Guide

The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program gives disadvantaged-owned small businesses nine years of access to sole-source federal contracts up to $5.5 million. …

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

Grants for Veteran-Owned Businesses 2026: 5 Real Programs ($4K–$25K)

Most veteran grant lists are stuffed with dead programs and government loans dressed up as 'free money.' Here are five real programs …

Jul 26, 2026 · Will Moss

WAWF invoicing for government contractors: submitting invoices that get paid

Wide Area Workflow is mandatory for most federal invoices, but the system trips up new contractors every day. Here is what you …

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

Guide · 10 min

SBA Small Business Size Standards: What They Are and Why They Matter

Size standards determine who legally qualifies as a small business for federal set-asides and contracts. They vary by NAICS code, measure either …

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone certification in Pennsylvania: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Pennsylvania-based businesses need to know about getting HUBZone certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

WOSB certification in Pennsylvania: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Pennsylvania-based businesses need to know about getting WOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Wyoming: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wyoming-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Wisconsin: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Wisconsin-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in West Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what West Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Washington: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Washington-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Virginia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Virginia-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Vermont: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Vermont-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Utah: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Utah-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Texas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Texas-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Tennessee: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Tennessee-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in South Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in South Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what South Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Rhode Island: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Rhode Island-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Pennsylvania: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Pennsylvania-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Oregon: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oregon-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Oklahoma: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Oklahoma-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Ohio: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Ohio-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in North Dakota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Dakota-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in North Carolina: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what North Carolina-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in New York: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New York-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in New Mexico: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Mexico-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in New Jersey: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Jersey-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in New Hampshire: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what New Hampshire-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Nevada: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nevada-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Nebraska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Nebraska-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Montana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Montana-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Missouri: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Missouri-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Mississippi: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Mississippi-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Minnesota: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Minnesota-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Michigan: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Michigan-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Massachusetts: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Massachusetts-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Maryland: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maryland-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Maine: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Maine-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Louisiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Louisiana-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Kentucky: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kentucky-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Kansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Kansas-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Iowa: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Iowa-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Indiana: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Indiana-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Illinois: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Illinois-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Idaho: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Idaho-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Hawaii: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Hawaii-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Georgia: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Georgia-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Florida: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Florida-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Delaware: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Delaware-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Connecticut: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Connecticut-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Colorado: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Colorado-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in California: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what California-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Arkansas: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arkansas-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Arizona: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Arizona-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Alaska: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alaska-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

SDVOSB certification in Alabama: eligibility, how to apply, and what it gets you

Here is what Alabama-based businesses need to know about getting SDVOSB certification: eligibility, application process, what federal contracts it opens.

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone recertification: what changes every 3 years

HUBZone certification doesn't expire automatically, but SBA can decertify you at any time if you fall out of compliance. Every 3 years, …

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone map: how to find qualifying locations and keep your certification

HUBZone certification requires your principal office to sit inside a designated zone and 35% of employees to live in one. The SBA …

Jul 13, 2026 · Mario Bailey

HUBZone Certification: Requirements, Map, and How to Apply in 2026

HUBZone certification gives qualifying small businesses access to set-aside contracts, sole-source awards up to $5.5 million, and a 10% price evaluation preference …

Jul 6, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to do business with the Virginia government

Selling to Virginia comes down to two steps most owners get backward: register on eVA, then get SWaM-certified. Here's the order, the …

May 18, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to become a Northrop Grumman diverse supplier

Northrop Grumman spends more than $2 billion annually with small and diverse businesses. This guide covers registration, certifications, sourcing categories, and what …

Apr 22, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to do business with the Nevada government

Selling to the State of Nevada starts with two registrations and a certification most owners skip. Here's the order to do it …

Mar 26, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to do business with the Minnesota government

Minnesota runs its vendor registration and bids through one system called SWIFT, and certified small businesses get up to a 12% bid …

Mar 11, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to do business with the Hawaii government

Hawaii runs its bids through HIePRO and posts every notice on HANDS. Registration is free, but one compliance step gates every award …

Feb 4, 2026 · Mario Bailey

The 50% rule, explained: limitations on subcontracting for small business

On a set-aside, you can't just win the work and hand most of it to a big prime. FAR 52.219-14 caps what …

Feb 3, 2026 · Mario Bailey

Guide · 11 min

Is a GSA Schedule worth it? How to get on the Multiple Award Schedule

A GSA Schedule is a contract that lets agencies buy from you faster. It's worth real money for some businesses and a …

Feb 3, 2026 · Mario Bailey

How to do business with the Colorado government

Selling to Colorado starts with one free registration in ColoradoVSS, plus a free listing in the state's supplier diversity directory. Here's the …

Jan 21, 2026 · Mario Bailey

Guide · 12 min

Breaking the Catch-22: How to Win Government Contracts Without Past Performance

Every year, the federal government awards over $183 billion to small businesses—but most new entrepreneurs hit the same wall: "You need past …

Jan 8, 2026 · SupplierDiversity.com

Guide · 10 min

APEX Accelerators: Free Government Contracting Help in All 50 States

There's a federally-funded office in your state whose only job is to help you win government contracts. They don't charge a dime. …

Jan 6, 2026 · SupplierDiversity.com Editorial Team

Supplier diversity metrics and KPIs that actually matter

Most supplier diversity dashboards measure the wrong things. Here's the short list of metrics tied to compliance and economic impact, the vanity …

Dec 24, 2025 · Mario Bailey

Reader tools

Apply what's in the reporting to your own business.

Most of what gets covered here turns into a question of which certification you should pursue first. The eligibility quiz checks your business against every certification we track and returns a ranked list with the buyers each opens.

Run the certification quiz → Browse certification guides