Bill 118 s 2873, also known as the Veterans Affairs Opportunity for Women-Owned Small Businesses Act of 2023, aims to provide more opportunities for women-owned small businesses within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The bill seeks to increase the participation of women-owned small businesses in VA contracting and procurement processes.
Specifically, the bill requires the VA to establish a program to increase contracting and subcontracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses. This program would include outreach and education efforts to inform women-owned small businesses about contracting opportunities with the VA. Additionally, the bill requires the VA to develop a mentorship program to help women-owned small businesses navigate the contracting process and build relationships with larger businesses.
Furthermore, the bill requires the VA to report annually to Congress on its efforts to increase contracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses. This report would include information on the number of contracts awarded to women-owned small businesses, the value of those contracts, and any challenges faced by women-owned small businesses in the contracting process.
Overall, the Veterans Affairs Opportunity for Women-Owned Small Businesses Act of 2023 aims to level the playing field for women-owned small businesses within the VA contracting process and provide them with the support and resources needed to succeed in the federal marketplace.