With the federal government being the largest buyer of goods and services, it is important that small businesses identify themselves correctly if they intend to try to obtain government contracts. Here are some identification guidelines to help you before submitting your contract proposal. Proper identification can serve as a marketing strategy especially since government agencies must meet a variety of small business procurement goals.
Your company can be considered a “women-owned business” if it is owned and controlled by at least 51 percent or more by a woman or women. A woman-owned certification is not currently required to apply for federal contracts. You will need to certify this information yourself by checking the appropriate box on the form when you apply.
You will need to determine if you are indeed a “small business”. The SBA has size standards that define whether a business is eligible to participate in government programs. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) has set the standards for the US, Mexico and Canada. Size standards are established for types of industry and economic activity.
Your company will be considered a “veteran-owned business” if it is 51 percent owned by a veteran or veterans. No veteran-owned certification process will need to be completed, but you will need to self-certify this information on your application by checking the appropriate box.
Please check back on Friday for the conclusion to this post.
