Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) are becoming key players in the federal contracting space, bringing innovation, efficiency, and diverse perspectives. In this article, we explore the significant role of WOSBs in transforming government projects and the unique advantages they offer to agencies and contractors.

​

Today, women-owned businesses are growing at a rapid pace, contributing significantly to job creation and economic development. Women bring unique perspectives and diverse skills to the table, fostering creativity and driving change across various industries. Their leadership styles often emphasize collaboration, empathy, and inclusivity, which can lead to more positive and productive work environments.

​

What is WOSB Program?

The federal government has a mandated goal of awarding at least 5% of all contracting dollars to WOSBs annually. To achieve this, various federal agencies reserve certain contracts exclusively for WOSB-certified businesses, particularly in industries where women-owned businesses are underrepresented. This initiative levels the playing field, giving WOSBs increased access to federal contracts and a fair chance against larger competitors. Furthermore, the Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) program offers additional opportunities for businesses owned by women meeting specific economic criteria. By obtaining WOSB certification, companies like SYMOS LLC can compete for these set-aside contracts, form strategic partnerships with prime contractors, and contribute to supplier diversity initiatives within government contracting.

 

Benefits of WOSB Certification in Government Contracting

One of the biggest advantages of being a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) is access to federal contracts specifically set aside for businesses owned and controlled by women. These contracts help level the playing field in industries where women have been historically underrepresented and create more opportunities for growth and collaboration.

 

Setting aside contracting opportunities

Federal agencies reserve certain contracts exclusively for Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)-certified businesses in industries where women-owned businesses are significantly underrepresented. These contracts span a wide range of sectors, including IT services, consulting, professional services, and construction. Large prime contractors working on federal projects often seek WOSB subcontractors to meet their diversity and small business participation goals, creating valuable partnership opportunities for WOSBs to expand their reach and experience. Agencies striving to meet their 5% federal contracting goal for WOSBs may prioritize WOSB-certified businesses in procurement decisions. This allows WOSBs to bid on contracts with fewer competitors, increasing their chances of securing government projects.

​

Increasing opportunities for small business collaboration

Being a Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) not only provides access to set-aside federal contracts but also creates valuable opportunities for collaboration with other small businesses through joint ventures and subcontracting partnerships.

​

The Small Business Administration (SBA) allows Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) to form joint ventures with other small businesses, including those with specialized expertise or additional resources. These joint ventures enable WOSBs to compete for larger contracts they may not qualify for alone, expanding their capabilities and service offerings. Under the SBA’s All Small Mentor-Protégé Program (ASMPP), WOSBs can partner with more experienced firms for mentorship, business development, and increased contract opportunities.

​

Prime contractors on federal contracts are often required to subcontract a portion of the work to small businesses, including WOSBs. Small businesses holding prime contracts may actively seek WOSBs as subcontracting partners to fulfill small business utilization goals and enhance their diversity efforts. WOSBs can leverage these subcontracting roles to gain experience, build relationships, and position themselves for future prime contracts.

​