Doing Business

with the

Department of

Defense

A Small Business Resource Guide Provided by Rep. Howard P.

“Buck” McKeon, Ranking Member,

House Committee on Armed Services

Dear Friend,

As small businessman who cut my teeth growing a family business from the ground up, I know how

challenging running a successful business in a down economy can be. Certainly, Washington isn’t doing the

business community any favors. From taxes to health care, regulations to paperwork, doing business in

America, and with the U.S. government in particular, has become next to impossible. As you are undoubtedly

aware, the American defense industry is facing some of its most daunting challenges in decades. Declining

procurement and drastic reductions to research and development seem to be the order of the day.

However, I truly believe that many of our best ideas and most innovative technologies come from small

businesses. Small business is the lifeblood of our economy. Working together – Republicans, Democrats, and

professionals like you – we can stem the tide of decline and maintain technological superiority, spur

innovation, and create American jobs.

When I was selected as lead Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, I committed to doing all I

could to support our military, including maintaining a healthy industrial base. One way to do just that is to

help small businesses navigate the complicated labyrinth that is the Department of Defense. Realizing every

company and situation is unique, this guide is not meant to be comprehensive, but rather a starting point for

those just beginning to support our men and women in uniform.

I hope you find some of the resources in this guide helpful and wish you the best of luck.

Sincerely,

Howard P. “Buck” McKeon

Member of Congress

Table of Contents

Letter of Welcome

Introduction

Popular Programs/Resources:

SBIR

FFRDCs

Fed Biz Ops

Component Specific Small Business Information:

Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA)

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)

Department of the Air Force (USAF)

Department of the Army (USA)

Department of Navy (USN)

U.S. Marine Corps (USMC)

Department of Defense (DoD)

Other Small Business Program Links:

http://www.tswg.gov/

http://www.dodtechmatch.com/DOD/index.aspx

http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/aboutus/dodprograms/sbir.html

http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/aboutus/dodprograms/sbir.html

https://rdte.osd.mil/

http://devenci.dtic.mil/

http://www.acq.osd.mil/cto/

http://www.acq.osd.mil/ott/tti/

http://www.dcaa.mil/

Introduction

There are literally thousands of business opportunities for small, innovative companies with the U.S.

Department of Defense (DoD). The DoD and its components, agencies, and Services continuously seek

goods and services, new technologies, innovative ideas, and talent from America’s millions of small

businesses.

The sheer enormity of the Department and its overwhelming amount of opportunities makes entering

the world of government contracting a daunting task, even for large businesses. Fortunately, almost

every part of DoD has a small business office designed to help businesses like yours. While a still a

challenge, these offices can help navigate the steps necessary to begin supporting our national defense

with your talent, skill, and dedication.

There is an entire universe of information available on small business opportunities, but is often

disjointed and difficult to locate. Further, many of the best programs and the most relevant contacts

are difficult to find. They are subcomponents to other offices or defense agencies, many of which are

unknown outside the traditional defense community.

This all leads many to ask, “Where do I start?” This guide is meant to help answer that question. To be

sure, this guide is not comprehensive, nor offers answers to every question, but rather seeks to help

small businesses know where to go to get expert advice and timely information.

It contains information on many of the most popular small business programs, each of the Services and

Defense Agencies small business opportunities, and provides helpful links, points of contact, and

instructions.

∞

First Steps As previously mentioned, there are several steps to becoming a small business partner of the Department of Defense or its components. While each Service, Agency, and activity has unique requirements, they all share some similar initial requirements. However, in almost every case, a contractor must be registered in the Central Contractor Registration data base, and their products have to be assigned a D-U-N-S Number (an industry standard for keeping track of the world's businesses and is recommended and/or required by more than 50 global, industry and trade associations, including the United Nations and the U.S. Federal Government). Additionally, all acquisitions and the related participants must abide by the Federal Acquisitions Regulations (FAR) and its related supplements (see links below). Many also find it is helpful and/or necessary for their product to be registered on the U.S. General Services Administration Schedule. Some small businesses also find it helps agencies find their products and services have been assigned a National Stock Number (NSN). Many also find that a helpful first step is to reach out to the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Procurement Center Representatives (PCRs) responsible for ensuring DOD takes advantage of small businesses in their contracting. They can also provide council for small businesses just starting out. Dependent on the contracting agency or entity there are also other steps required. Some for the most popular can be found in the links below.

Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) http://www.acq.osd.mil/dp/dars/dfars.html

Defense Commissary Agency Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DeCAARS) http://www.commissaries.com/business/DeCAARS.cfm

Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code http://www.dlis.dla.mil/cage_welcome.asp

North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Codes http://www.census.gov/epcd/www/naics.html

Electronic Document Access (EDA) Registsration

http://eda.ogden.disa.mil

Federal Supply Code (FSC) http://www.scrantonrtg.com/secrc/fsc-codes/fsc.html

It is highly recommended that interested partied review all the requirements of any program carefully

and speak with an agency representative to avoid unintended surprises late on the bidding and

contracting process.

Small Business Innovative

Research Program/Small

Business Technology

Transfer Program

Two of the most popular and successful programs within the U.S. Government, and the Department of Defense more specifically is the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program and the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program. These two competitive programs ensure that the nation's small, high-tech, innovative businesses are a significant part of the federal government's research and development efforts. Eleven federal departments participate in the SBIR program; five departments participate in the STTR program awarding $2billion to small high-tech businesses. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program was established in 1982 to increase the participation of small businesses in federal research and development (R&D). The goal of the dual-use SBIR program is to tap into the innovativeness and creativity of the small business community to help meet government R&D objectives. At the same time, these small companies develop technologies, products, and services which they can then commercialize through sales in the private sector or back to the government. For more information on particular solicitations, step-by –step instructions, and agency information, please visit the links below.

The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program was established as a companion program to the SBIR program. However, while STTR has the same objectives as SBIR, the STTR program requires participation by universities, federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs), and other non-profit research institutions. For more information, visit the links below.

Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Federal Agency Links:

Department of Defense DoD SBIR/STTR Resource Center Air Force Air Force SBIR/STTR Virtual Mall Army Chemical and Biological Defense Program (CBD) Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA) Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Missile Defense Agency (formerly BMDO) National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) (formerly NIMA) Navy Special Operations Acquisition and Logistics Center (SOCOM)

Small Business Technology Transfer Research Program (STTR) Federal Agency Links:

Department of Defense

Air Force Army Navy Marine Corps

Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs)

Another valuable source of small business opportunities in the area of research, technology

development, and services lies within the many federally funded research and development centers.

The centers have a unique federal charter and receive federal funding through various agencies to assist

the United States Government in addressing important national security issues, particularly those

requiring scientific and technical expertise.

Please visit the FFRDC websites (listed by agency) for more information.

Department of Defense Department of Energy Department of Homeland Security National Aeronautics and Space Administration National Science Foundation Nuclear Regulatory Commission

FedBizOps

FedBizOps, shorthand for Federal Business Opportunities, is the U.S. government’s single source for

solicitations, contracts, and procurement opportunities. It serves as a government-wide resource and is

a one of the best places to located opportunities for your small business. The site can be found here.

The Defense Commissary

Agency (DeCA)

Business opportunities with the Department of Defense are not limited to weapons systems, vehicles,

aircraft, or computers. The Defense Commissary Agency with headquarters at Fort Lee, Virginia,

operates a worldwide chain of commissaries providing groceries to military personnel, retirees and their

families in a safe and secure shopping environment.

Authorized patrons purchase items at cost plus a 5–percent surcharge, which covers the costs of

building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. Shoppers save an average of more than 30

percent on their purchases compared to commercial prices—savings worth about $3,300 annually for a

family of four. A core military family support element, and a valued part of military pay and benefits,

commissaries contribute to family readiness, enhance the quality of life for America's military and their

families, and help recruit and retain the best and brightest men and women to serve their country.

DeCA, like all Federal agencies, encourages small business participation in all its acquisitions. DeCA has

an Office of Small Business Programs to help small businesses navigate opportunities. Some helpful

points of contact within the Small Business Programs Office are Faith Smith, the Director of the Office of

Small Business Programs and Ernie Favale, a Small Business Specialist.

For great, step by step instructions on registering with DeCA and navigating their small business system,

click here. For additional information on small business opportunities please explore the following links:

Electronic Subcontract Reporting System (eSRS) Business Guide Small Business Frequently Asked Questions Glossary of Terms Forecast of DeCA Contracting Opportunities Subcontracting Plans and Templates Notices to the Trade Announcements

Brand Name Resale Products

There are a variety of business opportunities within DeCA. The most popular is the resale of brand

name products. Like any government opportunity, there are several steps vendors must take to have

their products considered for resale in our military’s commissaries.

What to do first:

1. Review the Business Guide to gather basic information about DeCA as well as

the brand name resale products we buy.

2. Review the steps on how to do Business with DeCA

3. Review the listing of commissary locations that are listed as well as the commodities listing to give you an idea of the categories of items DeCA buys.

4. Complete the Item Presentation Form.

5. Contact one of the points of contact provided below for an appointment for item presentations.

Key points of contact:

JUDGE MAYS, CHIEF, BRAND NAME RESALE BRANCH MO ESTRADA, QUALITY ASSURANCE LARRY HAHN, CHIEF, RESALE CONTRACTING DIVISION

Additional Resources:

Definition Item Presentation Form Item Presentation Form Instructions(PDF: 14KB) Commodity Listings/Points of Contact FDS Distributor Codes Planograms Business Guide(PDF: 1585KB) Call Numbers for FDS/DSD - FY10(PDF: 29KB) Call Numbers for FDS/DSD - FY09(PDF: 486KB) Notices to the Trade Web Pricing Steps on how to do Business with DeCA(PDF: 4M) BRAND NAME RESALE ORDERING AGREEMENT(PDF: 432 KB) COMMISSARIES/DODAACS ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE (EDI) RESALE BPA INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS(PDF: 66KB)

Non - Brand Name Resale Products

Another option for resale is non-brand name resale or products. Non-brand name products sold by DeCA are typically procured through competitive, best-value procedures. Products include items such as beef, pork, dairy and eggs. Below are a variety of tools to help you determine if this opportunity is right for you. The tools include information such as basic information about the non-brand name resale products DeCA buys, contract price history, and information on recently awarded contracts.

Business Guide

Weekly National Meat Carlot Report

Web Pricing

Price History & Recently Awarded Contracts

Federal Milk Market Orders

ResaleTechnical Data Sheets Beef, Pork, Dairy, Eggs

Call Numbers for FDS/DSD - FY10

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

Contracting Frequently Asked Questions Key points of contact:

SHEILA NORFUS , CHIEF, COMMODITIES RESALE BRANCH

MO ESTRADA, QUALITY ASSURANCE

LARRY HAHN, CHIEF, RESALE CONTRACTING DIVISION

Equipment

In addition to resale items, DeCA also buys nearly every piece of equipment necessary to operate a commissary. Types of equipment include: copiers, balers, pallet jacks, scissor lifts, bulkers, horizontal slicers with conveyors, mixer/grinders, single hopper, tandem, patty molders, saws, tenderizers, cigarette merchandisers, safes, etc. Included below are resources that may help you determine if this is an opportunity for your business.

Price History & Recently Awarded Contracts Commissary Locations Automated Commissary Equipment Descriptions (ACED) Contracting Frequently Asked Questions

Key points of contact:

TERRI KERBY, CHIEF, EQUIPMENT & MAINTENANCE ACQUISITION DIVISION

DOREEN CADIGAN, CHIEF, EQUIPMENT BRANCH

DIANA GROSS–BENDALL, CHIEF, SUPPORT/MHE BRANCH

Supply

Another area of business opportunity with DeCA is supplies. DeCA buys nearly all supplies used to operate commissaries worldwide and also contracts for the sale of residual materials. Types of supplies include: paper bags, plastic bags, meat trays, plastic wrap, and labels. Included below are resources that may help you determine if this is an opportunity for your business.

Price History & Recently Awarded Contracts Commissary Locations Contracting Frequently Asked Questions

Key points of contact:

BRUCE PIPER, CHIEF, CONTRACTING DIVISION

MICHAEL SHAFFER, CHIEF, REVENUE, SUPPLIES & HQ SUPPORT BRANCH

Services Another area of opportunity for business with DeCA are services. Services are typically procured through competitive methods using a type of best-value award decision. Types of commercial activities services include shelf stocking, receiving/storage/holding area, and custodial services. Types of support services include armored car services, banking services, auditing services, coupon redemption services, headquarters custodial, rendering services, grease trap services, inventory services, knives/blades services, linen laundry services, equipment maintenance, parking lot cleaning, pest control, subscriptions, trash removal, utilities, etc. Included below are resources that may help you determine if this is an opportunity for your business.

Price History & Recently Awarded Contracts

Quality Assurance Surveillance for Commissary Shelf Stocking, Receiving/Storage/Holding Area and Custodial Services (.pdf format)

Commissary Locations

Prototype Performance Work Statement for Shelf Stocking, Receiving/Storage/Holding and Custodial Services

Contracting Frequently Asked Questions

Key points of contact:

DEBORAH WIGGINS, CHIEF, COMMERCIAL SERVICES DIVISION KATHY HAWTHORNE, LEAD CONTRACT SPECIALIST/CONTRACTING OFFICER RONALD CONRAD, LEAD CONTRACT SPECIALIST/CONTRACTING OFFICER DENISE BROWN, CHIEF, WEST BRANCH GINNA THOMAS, CHIEF, EAST BRANCH BRUCE PIPER, CHIEF, CONTRACTING DIVISION MELISSA RIOS, CHIEF, SUPPORT SERVICES BRANCH MICHAEL SHAFFER, CHIEF, REVENUE, SUPPLIES & HQ SUPPORT BRANCH

The Defense Logistics

Agency (DLA)

Another business opportunity within the Department of Defense is with the Defense Logistics Agency

(DLA). The Defense Logistics Agency is the Department of Defense's largest logistics combat support

agency, providing worldwide logistics support in both peacetime and wartime to the military services as

well as several civilian agencies and foreign countries.

The DLA oversees about 26,000 employees from its headquarters at Fort Belvoir, in Northern Virginia,

who procure, manage, store, and distribute nearly 5 million items the military needs to operate. These

supplies support nearly 1,600 weapons systems, require 8,000 contract actions per day, and are

facilitated by 111,000 requisitions per day. Nearly $38 billion (FY09) per year in commodities are

delivered by DLA and include everything from maritime and land weapons systems support to medical

supplies.

Like many agencies, the DLA has a multi-step process for businesses looking to sell to the military

through its system. Fortunately, like all Federal agencies, encourages small business participation in all

its acquisitions. DLA has an Office of Small Business Programs to help small businesses navigate

opportunities. There is also a helpful guide to doing business with the DLA found here. In addition to

doing business with the DLA proper, there are several DLA procuring activities that each have offices to

help educate small businesses on doing business with their facility and to help their competition in the

Acquisition process. They also advise and assist contracting, program manager, and requirements

personnel on all matters which affect small businesses.

Defense Energy Support Center (DESC) provides the

Department of Defense and other government agencies with

comprehensive energy support.

Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC) is the Lead Center for

Maritime and Land-Based weapon systems spare and repair

parts.

Defense Supply Center Philadelphia (DSCP)Purchases food,

clothing & textiles, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and

construction & equipment items in support of America's

warfighters worldwide.

Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR) is the Lead Center for

aircraft weapon systems spare and repair parts.

Some additional links for doing business with the DLA are:

CAGE Codes – Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS) has sole responsibility for assigning and maintaining the CAGE Code Master File. The CAGE Code is a five position code that identifies contractors doing business with the Federal Government, NATO member nations, and other foreign governments. The CAGE Code is used to support a variety of mechanized systems throughout the government and provides for a standardized method of identifying a given facility at a specific location.

Contracting – To be considered for an award, you will need to be registered in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR). Access the CCR Web site for online registration and additional information on CCR.

DLA Procurement Regulations – DLA's official source for all procurement-related regulations.

DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) – The DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) is a Web-based system to view and submit secure quotes on DLA items of supply.

Solicitations for Work – A link to Federal Business Opportunities is the single government point-of-entry for federal government procurement opportunities over $25,000.

DLA Acronym List – A link to a list of many of the acronyms used throughout the everyday business processes of the Defense Logistics Agency.

Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) / 8(a)

HUBZone Program

Veteran-Owned/Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business

Women-Owned Small Business

United States Air Force

The Air Force looks to small business to achieve its mission – to fly, fight and win … in air, space and

cyberspace. The Air Force utilizes the unmatched innovation, efficiency and agility of small business to

meet the war fighting needs of its 28 major components and commands and its 327,452 active duty

personnel, 115,299 Reservists, 106,700 Air National Guardsmen, and 171,313 civilian personnel.

Small businesses of every type support the Air Force mission – maintenance, logistics, transportation,

information technology, health care, and manufacturing. Like other Defense Department components,

the Air Force has a robust Small Business Programs office and several small business oriented programs

aimed at helping you and your business find opportunities.

Like many federal agencies or components, there is a multi-step process to become eligible to compete

for Air Force contracts or to sell to the Air Force. Some steps required are:

Central Contractor Registration (CCR) is mandatory (or call 1-888-227-2423).

Contractor And Government Entity (CAGE) codes are necessary for all businesses. Your CAGE Code will be given when you register with CCR.

Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) numbers are required. Get your D&B number at www.dnb.com or 1-800-333-0505.

The government identifies your product or service with a six-digit code called the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) and a four-digit Federal Supply Class or Service (FSC/SVC).

Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA) is an e-Government initiative that was designed by the Integrated Acquisition Environment to replace the paper-based Representations and Certifications (Reps and Certs) process.

Wide Area Work Flow (WAWF) is a paperless contracting DoD-wide application designed to

support the goal of moving to a paperless acquisition process. The secure Web-based system

brings invoicing, receipt and acceptance together in a virtual folder.

Mentor-Protégé Program

The Mentor-Protégé Program assists eligible Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs) (protégés) to successfully compete for prime contract and subcontract awards by partnering with major defense contractors (mentors) under individual, project-based agreements to help meet the Air Force mission. Several Air Force Mentor-Protégé teams have received prestigious Nunn-Perry awards for superior performance.

Mentor companies:

Provide developmental assistance and technology transfer to their protégés Are directly reimbursed for services provided to protégés

Protégés:

Establish relationships with major Air Force contractors Develop necessary business and technical capabilities to perform significant work on Air Force

and other Department of Defense (DoD) contracts Expand and diversify their customer base

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Air Force Small Business Innovation Research & Small Business Technology

Transfer Programs

The Air Force Office of Small Business Programs utilizes the Department of Defense (DoD) Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs to harness the talents of our nation's small technology companies. These two, similar funding programs stimulate technological innovation and accelerate development and production of promising technologies that can help the Air Force accomplish its mission to fly, fight and win in air, space and cyberspace.

SBIR and STTR provide over a billion dollars in seed capital each year for early-stage research and development (R&D) at small technology companies. They fund projects that serve a DoD need and also have commercial applications.

SBIR focuses on small technology companies and individual entrepreneurs STTR funds cooperative R&D projects between small businesses and research institutions Both programs reach out to socially and economically disadvantaged firms Funding is awarded competitively, but the process is streamlined and user-friendly.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Historically Black Colleges, Universities & Minority Institutions Program

The Office of Small Business Programs is committed to improving the higher education competitive participation of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Institutions; Minority Institutions include Hispanic Serving Institutions; Tribal Colleges and Universities; Alaskan and Hawaiian Native Serving Institutions; and Other Minority Serving Institutions that are qualified to compete for Air Force contracts, grants and/or formal agreements.

This program seeks to inform and inspire the Air Force acquisition or requirements community to always consider the capabilities of these institutions in all higher education acquisitions. The program also assists HBCU/MI to develop their faculties and students’ business, engineering and science talents.

The small business specialists and HBCU/MI liaisons at the Air Force Research Laboratory directorates seek to identify opportunities for HBCU/MI in research and development activities (to include small business technology transfer and subcontracting in the Mentor-Protégé development program, education and industrial training, market research, information systems planning and management, family services, etc.). They also present outreach programs that provide strategies and methods to increase HBCU/MI participation in Air Force procurements.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Historically Underutilized Business Zone Program

A Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) is an economically distressed area as determined by the Small Business Administration (SBA), based on income and unemployment data. Nationally, HUBZone areas include:

7,000 urban census tracts 900 rural counties Lands within the boundaries of an Indian Reservation

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Small Disadvantaged Businesses & 8(a)

A small disadvantaged business (SDB) is a small firm owned by one or more individuals who are socially and economically disadvantaged. SDB status provides eligibility for bidding and benefit programs for Air Force and Federal procurements.

The SBA 8(a) Program provides SDBs with a wide variety of business development support and other management and technical assistance, including contracting with the Air Force in sole source and competitive set-asides. Learn more.

Veteran-Owned & Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Programs

The Air Force Office of Small Business Programs has created this program to recognize the invaluable service to the nation in times of peace and war provided by U.S. military veterans. The program recognizes that our veterans possess a wealth of knowledge, innovation and agility, and have the “hands-on” experience in every field activity in the Air Force. Also, they are likely to hire, mentor and train other war veterans as they transition to private life. In recognition of this fact, contracting and procurement assistance is provided to small business concerns owned by veterans and service-disabled veterans.

Federal regulations require those businesses that are other than small to submit subcontracting plans that include goals for awards to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) concerns.

The federal Veterans Benefits Act of 2003 created the SDVOSB Program. Executive Order 13360 was issued to ensure SDVOSBs receive at least 3 percent of all Federal

acquisitions.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Women-Owned Small Business Program

The Air Force Office of Small Business Programs also has a program committed to providing the most effective and innovative methods of assistance to meet the needs of Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) that wish to do business with the Air Force.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Other Helpful Air Force Links

Air Force Office of Small Business Programs

Size Standards

Procurement Technical Assistance Centers

Small Business Development Centers

Air Force Contracting

Air Force Non-Appropriated Funds Purchasing Guide to DoD Contracting Opportunities Defense Procurement and Acquisition Policy Federal Procurement Data System-Next Generation (FPDS-NG) Government Contract News On-Line Representations and Certifications Past Performance Information Retrieval System The Federal Web Locator

United States Army

The Office of Small Business Programs was established to help small businesses and America's Army

meet the challenges of this century. Its charter is to establish the Army as the premier organization for

the promotion of and assistance to Small Business, Small Disadvantaged Business, Woman-Owned Small

Business, Historically Black Colleges and Universities Minority Institutions (HBCU/MIs), Service-

Disabled/Veteran-Owned Small Business and HUBZone Small Business.

Special emphasis is placed on bringing faster, more efficient information on Army forecasted

procurement opportunities to industry, thereby providing adequate time to develop business strategies.

The Army has more than 200 buying activities working diligently to accomplish its small business goals

and help small businesses acquire the necessary knowledge about the program and tools to successfully

participate either as a prime contractor or a subcontractor.

Small businesses of every type support the Army mission – maintenance, logistics, transportation,

information technology, health care, and manufacturing. Like other Defense Department components,

the Army has a multi-step process to become eligible to compete for contracts or to sell to the Army.

The first step of which is registering your company with the Army.

https://www.armysbir.army.mil/RelatedLinks/Default.aspx

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program

The Army Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program was established to increase the participation of small businesses in Army research and development (R&D). The goal of the dual-use SBIR program is to tap into the innovativeness and creativity of the small business community to help meet government R&D objectives. At the same time, these small companies develop technologies, products, and services which they can then commercialize through sales in the private sector or back to the government.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program

The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program, like SBIR, is a government-wide program, mandated by the Small Business Research and Development Enhancement Act of 1992, PL102-564. STTR was established as a companion program to the SBIR program, and is executed in essentially the same manner; however, there are distinct differences.

While STTR has the same objectives as SBIR regarding the involvement of small businesses in federal R&D and the commercialization of their innovative technologies, the STTR program requires participation by universities, federally funded research and development centers (FFRDCs), and other non-profit research institutions. Each STTR proposal must be submitted by a team, which includes a small business (as the prime contractor for contracting purposes) and at least one research institution. The project must be divided such that the small business performs at least 40% of the work and the research institution(s) performs at least 30% of the work. The remainder of the work may be performed by either party or a third party.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

The Chemical and Biological Defense (CBD) program

The Chemical and Biological Defense (CBD) program was established by the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide state-of-the-art defense capabilities to allow military forces of the United States to operate and successfully complete missions in chemical and biological warfare environments. This requires the availability of the most effective products to detect and protect to ensure sustained operations.

The overall objective of the CBD Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program is to elicit innovative solutions from the small business community that address chemical and biological defense technology gaps confronting DoD and to include technologies that will also have high commercialization potential in the private sector.

Areas of interest include:

Detection and Identification — analytical techniques for both stand-off and point detection of chemical and biological agents; measurements conducted in air, water, soil and other matrices

Modeling & Simulation — techniques to provide information associated with specific chemical and biological threat materials Protection — all areas of individual and collective protection

Decontamination — processes/ materials to be employed on facilities, equipment & personnel Medical Technology — Pre- & Post-treatments to protect warfighters from exposure;

Therapeutics to mitigate the effects of chemical and biological threats; and Diagnostics to detect and identify biological or chemical threats in warfighters

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

United States Navy

The Navy also utilizes small businesses, including service disabled veteran-owned small business,

historically underutilized business zone (HUBZone) small business, small disadvantaged business, and

women-owned small business concerns, as a vital part of our economy and the Department of the Navy

(DON). The DON recognizes the critical role of small businesses in advancing our naval capability and

the strength of our nation’s economy and security and is always seeking qualified small businesses at

the earliest stage of acquisition planning.

Like the other Services, the Navy provides training, advice, guidance and innovative strategies ensuring

quality solutions for Navy and Marine Corps acquisition teams to and maximize opportunities for small

businesses. Like many federal agencies or components, there is a multi-step process to become eligible

to compete for Navy opportunities or to sell to the Navy. Some steps required are:

Step 1: Identify your Product or Service

Step 2: Obtain a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number, register in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) System, and obtain a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code

Step 3: Register in the Small Business Administration (SBA) Procurement Marketing and Access Network (PRO-Net) system and investigate other SBA resources and small business programs

Step 4: Familiarize yourself with Federal, DOD, and Navy contracting procedures

Step 5: Identify the Navy/Marine Corps contracting activity that purchases your product or service and contact the Small Business Specialist on-site

Step 6: Identify current and future Navy and Marine Corps procurement opportunities

Step 7: Investigate Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) contracts

Step 8: Investigate other DOD programs

Step 9: Explore subcontracting opportunities

Step 10: Seek additional assistance as needed in the Navy and DOD marketplace

Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program/ Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program

Through the Department of the Navy’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program, small businesses of 500 employees or less have the opportunity to address naval needs in more than thirty science and technology areas. The SBIR Program provides the fleet with the innovative advances in technology developed by small firms that have the courage, drive, and flexibility to assume risks, develop niches, and generally compete in areas less attractive to larger firms. SBIR Program participants benefit both from the program awards as well as the further development and commercialization of the resulting products.

Similar to the SBIR Program, the Navy Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program fosters transitions of joint efforts between qualified small businesses and research institutions to the Navy and Marine Corps. The STTR Program requires the qualified small business to conduct at least 40% of the contract work and a qualified not-for-profit research institution to conduct at least 30% of the contract work.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions

The Department of the Navy’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Institutions

(HBCU/MI) program’s primary purpose is to facilitate interactions, between HBCI/MIs and the

Department, which may lead to greater HBCU/MI participation in Navy and Marine Corps related

programs.

The objectives of the HBCU/MI program are as follows:

o Foster support of meritorious research proposals originating at HBCU/MIs

o Assist HBCU/MIs in strengthening their capability to conduct quality research of interest to the Navy and Marine Corps

o Assist in the development of science and engineering education programs geared

o Increasing the participation of underrepresented minorities in research and development

o Assist in exploring Navy and Marine Corps related contracting and subcontracting opportunities, and

o Coordinate the Department’s HBCU/MI Program with similar programs in other Federal agencies.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Mentor-Protégé Program

The Mentor-Protégé Program assists eligible Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs) (protégés) to successfully compete for prime contract and subcontract awards by partnering with major defense contractors (mentors) under individual, project-based agreements to help meet the Air Force mission. Several Air Force Mentor-Protégé teams have received prestigious Nunn-Perry awards for superior performance.

Mentor companies:

Provide developmental assistance and technology transfer to their protégés Are directly reimbursed for services provided to protégés

Protégés:

Establish relationships with major Air Force contractors Develop necessary business and technical capabilities to perform significant work on Air Force

and other Department of Defense (DoD) contracts Expand and diversify their customer base

The Navy MP Program is currently looking for agreements with focus in the following Developmental Assistance Areas:

o Business Infrastructure

o Certifications

o Construction

o Engineering

o Manufacturing

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB)

The SDB procurement mechanisms are a price evaluation adjustment for SDB concerns, an evaluation factor or sub-factor for participation of SDB concerns, and monetary subcontracting incentive clauses for SDB concerns. The Department of Commerce will determine on an annual basis the authorized SDB procurement mechanisms and applicable price evaluation adjustment percentage. The SBA is responsible for certifying a concern as a SDB.

The certification process will categorize a small business as “disadvantaged” only if an SBA review finds the firm is owned and controlled by someone who is socially and economically disadvantaged. This revised rule will make it easier for business owners who are not members of minority groups to become Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDB) by demonstrating their disadvantage.

Once an SDB is certified and added to the on-line public registry of SDB-certified firms maintained in CCR/Dynamic Small Business Search, it will be eligible for preferences under federal procurement regulations. Certified firms remain on the list for three years.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Veteran/Service Disable Veteran Owned Small Business

The Navy is dedicated to serving the veteran entrepreneur by providing maximum opportunities for veterans seeking to do business with the Navy and Marine Corps. The Veterans Benefit Act of 2003 created a procurement program to enhance business opportunities for small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans (SDVOSB) to provide Federal contracting opportunities. The Act enables SDVOSB firms to participate in restricted competition and receive sole source contracts for goods and services used by the U.S. Government. The anticipated award of sole source contracts will not exceed $5.5M for manufacturing and $3M for other contract opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

Other Helpful Navy Links

Points of Contact

Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Marine Corps Systems Command

Military Sealift Command

Naval Air Systems Command

Naval Facilities Engineering Command

Naval Inventory Control Point

Naval Sea Systems Command

Naval Supply Systems Command

Office of Naval Research

Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command

Strategic Systems Programs

Marine Corps Exchange (MCX)

Navy Acquisition One Source

Navy Electronic Commerce Online (NECO)

Navy Marine Corps Acquisition Regulation Supplement (NMCARS)

Navy Marine Corps Acquisition Guide (NMCAG)

Navy Exchange System (NEX)

Navy SeaPort-e

United States Marine Corps

The U.S. Marine Corps, like its sister Services, also relies on small businesses to ensure the Corps remains

the world’s premier amphibious fighting force. The small business office in the Marine Corps is overseen

by the Marine Corps Systems Command which is responsible for providing research, development, and

acquisition of equipment, information systems, training systems, and weapon systems to satisfy all

approved material requirements of the Marine Corps. The office aims to maintain a successful Small

business Program and expand the opportunities for small business.

Based in Quantico, VA, the Command is composed of seven purchasing branches which provide support

to the Commanding General and resident Product Group Directors. Other locations include Orlando, FL,

which supports the Program Manager for Training Systems (PMTRASYS) and Camp Pendleton, CA, which

supports the Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity (MCTSSA).

Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program/ Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program

The Marine Corps SBIR program is designed to provide small, high-tech businesses the opportunity to propose innovative R&D solutions in response to critical Marine Corps needs. The Marine Corps SBIR Program Manager (PM) coordinates SBIR activities across the Marine Corps.

Through the Department of the Navy’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program, small businesses of 500 employees or less have the opportunity to address naval needs in more than thirty science and technology areas. The SBIR Program provides the fleet with the innovative advances in technology developed by small firms that have the courage, drive, and flexibility to assume risks, develop niches, and generally compete in areas less attractive to larger firms. SBIR Program participants benefit both from the program awards as well as the further development and commercialization of the resulting products.

Similar to the SBIR Program, the Navy Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program fosters transitions of joint efforts between qualified small businesses and research institutions to the Navy and Marine Corps. The STTR Program requires the qualified small business to conduct at least 40% of the contract work and a qualified not-for-profit research institution to conduct at least 30% of the contract work.

Eligibility Criteria, References, and Other Information

http://www.marcorsyscom.usmc.mil/sites/tto/sbir/sbir101.htm

https://www.neco.navy.mil/

http://www.mchs.marcorsyscom.usmc.mil/

http://www.marcorsyscom.usmc.mil/sites/acss/default.asp

Marine Corps Contacts Small businesses interested in providing capability briefs, please send an e-mail to the Associate Director for Small Business at OSBP or call 703-432-3946. David J. (Dave) Dawson Associate Director for Small Business Programs E-Mail Address: David.J.Dawson@usmc.mil Phone: (703) 432-3946 If you would like to send information concerning your capabilities, the mailing address is: COMMANDING GENERAL ATTN: 00Y MARCORSYSCOM 2200 LESTER STREET QUANTICO VA 22134-6050