Policy Issues • Small Business Programs

Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization

Utilization programs are commonly described as efforts to help small and disadvantaged businesses participate in contracting opportunities and to improve outreach, education, and access to procurement processes.

What These Programs Commonly Include

• Outreach: events, guidance, and support to help businesses compete.
• Vendor education: how to register, bid, and comply with requirements.
• Measurement: tracking participation and contract outcomes by category.

Why It Matters

• Expands competition and supplier diversity.
• Improves awareness of opportunities and reduces barriers to entry.
• Supports local economic development and job creation.