Federal set-asides explained: WOSB, 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB
A large share of federal contracts is reserved — 'set aside' — for specific categories of small businesses. If you're certified, these are some of the least competitive, highest-value opportunities available to you.
The main set-aside programs
- Small Business Set-Aside — reserved for any qualifying small business.
- WOSB — Women-Owned Small Business.
- 8(a) — for socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses.
- HUBZone — businesses in Historically Underutilized Business Zones.
- SDVOSB — Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business.
Every opportunity on SAM.gov is tagged with its set-aside type. The trick is catching the ones you qualify for among the thousands of monthly notices — and responding before the deadline.
See only the set-asides you qualify for
BidRadar can filter to show only small-business set-asides. Turn it on, set your NAICS codes, and we'll email you the matching opportunities every day.
BidRadar is an independent service and is not affiliated with SAM.gov or any government agency. Always confirm details and deadlines on the official notice.