Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), praised President Biden's administration for surpassing the annual goal for federal contracting dollars awarded to Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs) in FY2023. Guzman stated, "Today’s announcement shows the results, with a new record of contract spending with Small Disadvantaged Businesses and steady progress towards President Biden’s goal of awarding 15% of federal contracting dollars to Small Disadvantaged Businesses by FY2025."
In response to President Biden's call to increase federal contracting dollars going to SDBs, the SBA has implemented new initiatives aimed at advancing this goal. Guzman highlighted the administration's commitment to promoting a diversified supply chain and fostering innovation, stating, "The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs to ensure a diversified supply chain, strong competition, and innovation."
Under Guzman's leadership, the SBA has advocated for strategic changes to empower small businesses, particularly those in underserved communities. Initiatives include releasing new guidance to encourage new entrants into the federal contracting space and expanding access for small businesses to multiple-award contracts. The SBA has also launched an enhanced training program, "Empower to Grow," to strengthen Small Disadvantaged Businesses' contract readiness.
Furthermore, the SBA has announced reforms in small business contracting, such as directing agencies to track and evaluate the performance of socioeconomic small business contracting goals and creating special contract procedures for 8(a) participants using the GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule. Guzman has pushed for increased transparency and accountability in contracting by releasing disaggregated data tracking the federal government's contracting with small and minority-owned firms.
The Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to support small disadvantaged businesses align with the SBA's mission to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners. Through a network of field offices and partnerships, the SBA provides resources and support to help businesses start, grow, expand, or recover from disasters.