Do small business set-asides increase the cost of government contracting?

Set-asides are designed to expand competition among small businesses and strengthen the supplier base, not simply drive up costs. In many markets, small firms bring innovation, agility, and lower overhead that can reduce long-term program risk and lifecycle expense. While individual prices vary by requirement, agencies view set-asides as a strategic investment in resilient supply chains and mission support rather than a premium.

GovCon in a Box helps small businesses prove that value by improving how you communicate capabilities, price intelligently, and assemble teaming partners. Our tools and community support help you show buyers that small-business set-aside awards can deliver high performance and strong return on taxpayer dollars.