Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization

The Department of Labor Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) is a sub-agency within the Cabinet Department of Labor that manages the agency's small and disadvantaged business outreach, advocacy, and contracting programs—primarily supporting DOL's internal acquisition and operational needs rather than funding external work streams.

The OSDBU's contract portfolio is minimal and inactive. The agency has issued 123 federal contract awards cumulatively since 1998, with the most recent award closed on August 27, 2009. Over the last five years of recorded activity, the OSDBU awarded 7 contracts in 2004, 4 in 2005, 1 in 2007, 2 in 2008, and 3 in 2009—a trailing-off cadence ending in 2009. The combined potential value across the entire portfolio stands at $1 million, though $21 million in dollars have been obligated (reflecting option exercises, modifications, or extended performance periods that drive obligation above the initial potential value estimate). The competitive base spans 47 distinct prime contractors across the lifetime portfolio.

Contracts are overwhelmingly issued without set-aside designation: 121 of 123 awards (98%) carry no set-aside, with only 2 awards (2%) designated as 8(a) Sole Source. This mix reflects the OSDBU's internal-support function rather than an external procurement mission targeted at small-business categories.

No recent contract opportunities are recorded against the OSDBU. No grant activity or grant opportunities are documented against the agency. The OSDBU does not operate as a contracting vehicle for external firms or as a funding source for recipients; it functions as DOL's internal office of small business utilization and policy advocacy.