RFP Scribe

Small Business Set-Aside Proposal Template (8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone)

Set-aside contracts are the fastest path to federal revenue for certified small businesses — but the proposal must prove you can self-perform within the limitations on subcontracting.

6 min read 8(a), WOSB, EDWOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone, and SDB firms

Prove the limitations on subcontracting

Services contracts require 50% self-performance; construction is 15% (general) or 25% (specialty). Show the math in a table — labor hours and dollars — so the CO does not have to guess.

Lead with your certification status

8(a), WOSB, EDWOSB, SDVOSB, HUBZone — put the certification on the cover and in the executive summary with the date issued and expiration.

The template outline

Certifications

  • SBA certification letter (current)
  • SAM.gov registration with set-aside flags
  • NAICS code and size standard

Capability Statement

  • Core competencies tied to PWS
  • Differentiators
  • Past performance on similar size contracts

Self-Performance Plan

  • Labor hours by labor category (prime vs sub)
  • Dollar split prime vs sub
  • Compliance with 13 CFR 125.6

Pricing

  • Fully-loaded labor rates
  • Indirect rates provisional or DCAA-approved
  • Pricing realism narrative

Frequently asked questions

What is the limitations on subcontracting rule?

For services set-asides, the prime must perform at least 50% of the cost of personnel. For construction, it is 15% (general) or 25% (specialty trade).

Can I bid an 8(a) sole-source above the threshold?

8(a) sole-source is capped at $4.5M for services and $7M for manufacturing. Above that, the requirement must be competed among 8(a) firms.