The U.S. Small Business Administration has proposed one of its most consequential revisions in years to the methodology and rules governing small business size standards. The proposed rules would significantly increase size standards in most industries, including an increase of more than 1,000% for certain NAICS codes, and could dramatically expand the pool of businesses eligible to compete for small business set-asides.  Together with SBA’s revised methodology for establishing and calculating size standards, these changes could affect how businesses qualify as small, compete for federal set-aside contracts, participate in the Mentor-Protégé Program, and plan for long-term growth.

In this timely presentation, government contracts attorneys Tony Franco and Emily Reid will translate the proposed rules into practical considerations for businesses and the community leaders who support them.

Part 1: Understanding SBA’s Proposed Changes

Tony and Emily will explain the proposed revisions to SBA’s size standards and methodology, why the agency is considering these changes, and how expanding the pool of small business contractors could reshape the federal government contracting landscape. They will discuss the potential effects on small business eligibility, set-aside and subcontracting opportunities, the Mentor-Protégé Program, and other federal contracting programs. The session will also address the federal rulemaking process and the options available to businesses and industry stakeholders that want to provide feedback on the proposals or challenge the final rules on the size standards.

Part 2: Preparing Your Business for What Comes Next

Understanding the proposed rules is only the first step. Tony and Emily will help attendees consider how evolving SBA regulations could affect a company’s eligibility, competitive position, organizational structure, compliance obligations, and growth strategy. They will also share practical considerations for assessing potential risks and opportunities and positioning businesses to compete successfully as the regulatory landscape changes.

In addition, Tony and Emily will discuss other recent regulatory changes affecting small business contractors, including SBA’s recently published rule on new eligibility criteria for the 8(a) Business Development Program.

Whether you are a federal contractor, business owner, economic development professional, or community leader advising local companies, this presentation will provide a clearer understanding of the proposed rules and actionable insights to help businesses prepare, respond, and grow.

Why Attend

• Gain practical insight into SBA’s proposed changes and revised methodology for calculating size standards.
• Understand the potential impact on your company’s eligibility, competitiveness, and growth strategy.
• Identify opportunities and risks that could affect your position in the federal marketplace.
• Walk away with actionable guidance for organizational planning and long-term success.
• Learn how to effectively engage in the rulemaking process before the public comment deadline on November 20, 2026.

Who Should Attend

• Federal contractors of all sizes.
• Current and prospective SBA Mentor-Protégé Program participants.
• Contracts, compliance, capture, and business development professionals.
• Business owners, executives, and in-house counsel responsible for growth and strategic planning.
• Companies evaluating how regulatory changes may affect future contracting opportunities.