What is a set-aside?

Definition in one paragraph

A set-aside limits competition to businesses that meet a stated eligibility category, such as small under the NAICS size standard, 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, or WOSB. It does not promise an award.

Why set-asides matter for a first contract

Full-and-open competition can include large incumbents with extensive past performance. Set-asides limit the competitors when you qualify. Bidding a set-aside you do not qualify for wastes time and can create compliance risk. You either meet the program rules or you do not.

Major types you’ll see on notices

GovGazette keeps a page for each common type with current open counts. Open the page for a program you qualify for:

• Total Small Business: reserved for small under the applicable size standard → /contracts/set-aside/total-small-business
• Partial Small Business: only part of the requirement is set aside → /contracts/set-aside/partial-small-business
• 8(a) competed and sole source: SBA 8(a) programs → /contracts/set-aside/8a-competed
• HUBZone: geographic program eligibility → /contracts/set-aside/hubzone
• SDVOSB and VOSB: veteran programs → /contracts/set-aside/service-disabled-veteran-owned
• WOSB and EDWOSB: women-owned programs → /contracts/set-aside/women-owned-small-business
• Buy Indian, ISBEE, IEE, and other programs: see all set-asides

How to check a set-aside

Run three checks before you work on a proposal:

• Do you meet the program rules today (not “we’re applying next year”)?
• Does the notice’s NAICS size standard still leave you small?
• Can you perform the work with your real capacity and any required certifications?

Official rules live elsewhere

The FAR, mainly Part 19 and related provisions, and SBA program rules define set-asides. Our FAR reference library lists official titles for citations in solicitations and links to Acquisition.gov. It does not give legal advice.

• FAR library: /reference/far
• Always re-read the specific solicitation’s set-aside language and attachments