Procurement Program Open to Small Businesses

Small businesses are the lifeblood of Pennsylvania’s economy, employing nearly half of all workers in the private sector. The Department of General Services recently announced a new program that will help more Pennsylvania small businesses compete for state contracts.

The Small Business Procurement Initiative enables companies to bid on state contracts that are reserved specifically for small businesses. The program ensures small businesses are given opportunities to bid on state projects as prime contractors and are not forced to bid against larger firms for all state contracts. The program is only open to small businesses that employ 100 or fewer employees and do not exceed gross sales requirements. Participating businesses must self-certify with the state online at www.pasupplierportal.state.pa.us to confirm their eligibility for the program.

The Department also recently expanded its Small Diverse Business Program – which currently assists small businesses owned by women or minorities – to include veteran-owned small businesses. The program will offer support and resources to help veterans compete for state contracts.

More information on programs and services available to assist small businesses is available online at www.smallbusiness.pa.gov.