Partner with a large prime contractor via SBA-approved JV — bid on set-aside contracts using their past performance.
SBA Mentor-Protégé Program: small business (protégé) formally partners with large business (mentor). The JV can bid on 8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone set-asides using the mentor's past performance, financial capacity, and technical expertise. Protégé leads and receives 51%+ of profits. Massive competitive edge — small firms suddenly qualify for $50M+ contracts. Free program via SBA. Best mentors: Leidos, Booz Allen, Lockheed, PwC — actively seek protégés.
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Socially/economically disadvantaged owners get 9 years of set-aside contracts + sole-source awards up to $4.5M.
Business in a designated HUBZone + 35% of workforce living in HUBZone = federal set-aside + 10% price preference.
Service-disabled veteran (or veteran) owners get federal set-asides + sole-source + VA 3% procurement goal.
Women-owned businesses (economically disadvantaged track) unlock federal set-asides + sole-source awards.
Get on the GSA Multiple Award Schedule — pre-approved to sell to any federal agency without re-competing.
Register on SAM.gov (free) and sell up to $10K per federal purchase order with zero bidding.
Non-dilutive federal R&D grants: $50–275K Phase I → $750K–$2M Phase II → unlimited Phase III sole-source.
Sub-contract on a prime's federal deal → CPARS rating → qualifies you to prime your own contracts.