On Nov. 3, the National Veteran Small Business Coalition awarded DIA the Champion of Veterans Enterprise Award for 2020. Natalie Yacoub-Pugh, a small business specialist in the Office of Small Business Programs, accepted the prestigious award on behalf of the Agency at the National Veteran’s Conference in Orlando, Florida.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted small businesses in 2020. Through SBP, the Agency supported small businesses navigating contract award processes and ensured they were considered for subcontracting opportunities. SBP acquisition professionals worked nonstop to find opportunities for small businesses to compete for and win contract awards.
As a result of SBP’s efforts, 21% of DIA’s contracted dollars — over seven times the Agency’s goal — went to veteran and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses in 2020. DIA exceeded its small business contracting goal by 700% — more than any other agency in the Federal Government.
SBP transitioned to a 100% virtual environment in 2020, which enhanced its uninterrupted support to small businesses. Other 2020 innovations included an “Introduction to DIA for Small Businesses” briefing to assist small businesses learning how to do business with the Agency, and live market research presentations to numerous program offices.
SBP’s mission is to advise DIA on all matters relating to small business programs and provide opportunities for small businesses to participate in the contracting process at the prime and subcontracting level. SBP advocates for the small business community, ensuring small businesses are included in market research and considered for contract actions.