Solicitation_SBAHQ160047_Answers_to_Questions.pdf

Solicitation SBAHQ‐16‐Q‐0047 Questions

Research on Growth of Women‐Owned Businesses Out of the Small Business Category

1.) Should we differentiate analysis of small businesses that are single proprietors?

Offeror should determine the best course of action for analysis of research on the growth of women‐owned businesses out of the small business category.

2.) How should the study address obstacles that are common to all small businesses, as opposed to obstacles that are unique or differential for WOSB?

The NWBC’s primary focus is to serve as an independent source of advice and council on economic issues of importance to women business owners. Although the analysis could take into account obstacles faced by all small businesses, the main focus should be on women‐owned businesses.

3.) Should the study consider non‐Federal contracting opportunity calculations?

Federal and non‐federal contracting opportunities could be considered. The offeror should determine the best course of action for analysis of research on the growth of women‐owned businesses out of the small business category.

4.) On page 2 of the solicitation notification, it states that proposals should in "At least one example of research methodology that could be included in Task B, to which the offeror shall not be bound" Does the government want us to provide a complete sample methodology for this engagement or an example of a methodology used on a previous project similar in nature?

Proposed sample methodology should reflect the current scope found in the statement of work.

5.) Is the 10‐page limit single or double spaced?

Length of the proposal must meet a 10‐page limit maximum. Single or double spaced proposals will be accepted.

6.) Should question 5, “Projected cost and timelines for each task outlined in this Performance Work Statement” only be included in the Price Volume or should timelines for each task be included in the Technical Volume as well?

All costs associated with the contractor’s acquisition of this data shall be inclusive in the proposal. The current solicitation is a fixed price service and thus the offered fixed price for the service

7.) Is there a conflict of interest if a Woman Owned Small Business submits a proposal? We are a very small Woman Owned business.

This solicitation is a small business set aside therefore small businesses are encouraged to submit proposals if capacity to execute the project effectively is reflected in given proposal.

8.) Given the four‐month time frame specified in the proposal, does this include time required to attain OMB clearances?

Task A timeline should not take into account OMB clearance as it includes the development of a literature review and descriptive analysis as well as methodology. Task B timeline should reflect OMB clearance as it will execute the methodology.

9.) Are teaming approaches permitted?

Teaming is allowable, however this must intent must be explicitly described in the proposal.