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Explore the policies, procedures, and problems associated with the socioeconomic programs enacted by Congress that provide contracting and acquisition opportunities solely for small businesses. You will learn the benefits and drawbacks of contracting with a small business through case studies and real-world examples.

This course supports the acquisition workforce; offers an opportunity to establish, demonstrate, and apply foundational knowledge for the small business professional; encourages clarification of their role; and provides practice applying skills and knowledge.Participants will apply basic knowledge of the legislation, policies, acquisition process, and market research techniques required to advise stakeholders effectively, and to advocate for small business participation in acquisitions.

This course prepares mid-level acquisition professionals and Contracting Professionals to work effectively with acquisition teams throughout the acquisition lifecycle. Participants demonstrate their comprehension of concepts introduced in Part A by completing a series of activities typical of what they will do on the job, including devising a market research strategy; developing a supported, justified acquisition strategy based on the market research; contributing to solicitation documents, advising a source selection evaluation board in the evaluation standards for a given solicitation; reviewing small business participation as a subcontractor; and developing an agency response to the Small Business Administration Ombudsman's Inquiry. As a capstone to the course, participants will help each other in resolving small business issues that they are currently confronting in their agencies.