Scholten Looks to Boost Small Business Contracting at Subcommittee Hearing

Press Release

"The government, as a whole, and some agencies have failed to meet all of the small business participation in several individual goals, such as the woman-owned small business goal. These failures deprive small businesses of billions in contracting dollars.

Additionally, the Committee has seen the average contract size is increasing. On first take, this appears to be promising as larger contracts may be more profitable for small companies. However, it might suggest that more contracts are being consolidated --resulting in fewer opportunities for small businesses.

I welcome discussions like today so we can identify the many factors challenging our small contractors and develop thoughtful solutions. What is important for this Committee to keep in mind is that these developments are part of a bigger picture -- which is that the federal procurement marketplace is always evolving. Small firms bring new ideas to the table, which in turn generate new jobs and even new industries. We must take steps to ensure that they can access the federal marketplace."

Source