Learn About Your DoW Acquisition Rights and Report Potential Infringements

Are you a small business involved in a Department of War (DoW) acquisition? This site educates you on your rights during acquisitions and related transactions and provides a formal mechanism to report potential infringements. We are committed to ensuring fair practices and protecting your interests.

Please click on the information below to understand your rights and the resources available to you.

Glossary of Terms

The Small Business Bill of Rights brings together policies, programs, and protections that can involve specialized terms and acronyms. This glossary is designed to help visitors quickly understand key concepts used throughout the Small Business Bill of Rights web pages. It provides plain-language definitions to support small businesses, partners, and stakeholders as they explore available resources and navigate federal processes with greater confidence.

DoW Small Business Bill of Rights Glossary

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Why was the Small Business Bill of Rights developed?
   The Small Business Bill of Rights was developed to ensure a healthy partnership between the Department of War (DoW) and the defense industrial base, encourage small businesses to contract with the DoW by resolving customer service issues and conflicts expeditiously, and inform small businesses of their rights to assistance under Federal law.
    
2. Who is the Small Business Bill of Rights developed for?
   It is developed for small businesses, particularly those engaged in or seeking to participate in DoW acquisitions, contracting, and subcontracting opportunities, to protect their interests and facilitate fair interactions with the DoW.
    
3. Are there annual reporting requirements related to the Bill of Rights?
   Yes, the Director of DoW Small Business Programs must provide annual briefings to the Secretary of War and congressional committees on metrics related to complaint submissions under the Bill of Rights.
    
4. What is the role of APEX Accelerators?
   APEX Accelerators provide procurement technical assistance, including for SBIR/STTR and defense export controls, to help small businesses navigate DoW contracting (10 U.S.C. Chapter 388).
    
5. Where can I get more information or assistance?
   Contact your local DoW or DoW Component Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) or visit sba.gov for guidance on your rights and available resources.