PrimeRFP SCOUT · Federal Set-Aside Program
Small Business Set-Aside (SB)
Federal contracts reserved for certified small businesses — the broadest set-aside category with strong participation across all agencies.
$163B
Total Obligated
26%
% of Federal Spend
180,000+
Total Awards
↑
Trend (~4%)
What is Small Business Set-Aside?
Federal contracts reserved for certified small businesses — the broadest set-aside category with strong participation across all agencies.
Certification Process
Register with SAM.gov, obtain DUNS number, provide ownership and financial documentation, and the SBA Size Standard verification (varies by NAICS code). Approval typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Business Development Strategy
Small business set-asides represent 26% of federal contracting spend — one of the largest accessible markets. On-ramps include multiple vehicles (STARS III, SBA MAS, agency-specific 8(a) contracts). Certification path is straightforward.
Top Agencies Buying Small Business Set-Aside
| Rank | Agency | Estimated Spend |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Department of Defense | $71B |
| #2 | Department of Homeland Security | $18B |
| #3 | Department of Veterans Affairs | $15B |
| #4 | Department of Health and Human Services | $14B |
| #5 | General Services Administration | $10B |
FY2025 estimated federal spending
Market Opportunity
Total Market Size
$163B
26% of all federal contracting
Growth Rate
~4% annual growth
3-year compound annual growth rate
Trend
↑
Current direction and momentum
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get certified as a small business?
Register with SAM.gov, obtain a DUNS number, and apply for SBA small business certification. Size standards vary by NAICS code (typically $5.5M–$38.5M in revenue). Approval takes 2-4 weeks. Once certified, you're eligible for all small business set-aside contracts.
How much federal contracting is reserved for small businesses?
Approximately 26% of federal contracting ($163B FY2025) is set aside for small businesses. Additionally, agencies have a 23% goal for small business subcontracting on larger prime contracts.
What vehicles should I pursue for small business work?
STARS III (GSA, IT services), SBA MAS Schedule, agency-specific vehicles (e.g., VA T4NG2), and direct small business set-aside RFPs are primary on-ramps. PrimeRFP SCOUT tracks all open small business opportunities government-wide.
Ready to compete as a Small Business Set-Aside firm?
Get certified, find Small Business Set-Aside opportunities, learn winning strategies, and connect with federal buyers in PrimeRFP SCOUT.