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.
$183B
Total Obligated
28.8%
% of Federal Spend
180,000+
Total Awards
↑
Trend (~8%)
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 28.8% of federal contracting spend ($183B FY2024) — a record high and 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
$183B
28.8% of all federal contracting
Growth Rate
~8% 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?
In FY2024, the federal government awarded a record $183 billion (28.8% of total contracting) to small businesses — the fourth consecutive year of growth and the highest amount ever recorded. Agencies have a statutory 23% goal for small business prime contracting. Source: SBA FY2024 Procurement Scorecard.
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.