Search

Home > Govcon Giants > 313: $26B in 8A Contracts + 1,100 Firms Suspended: Why Opportunity Is Bigger Than Ever With Sam Le
Podcast: Govcon Giants
Episode:

313: $26B in 8A Contracts + 1,100 Firms Suspended: Why Opportunity Is Bigger Than Ever With Sam Le
Category: Business
Duration: 00:50:52
Publish Date: 2026-02-04 11:00:00
Description:

In this episode of the Govcon Giants Podcast, Eric Coffie sits down with Sam Le, founder of GovCon Intelligence and former SBA procurement policy leader with 17 years in federal contracting. Together, they break down the latest turbulence surrounding the 8A Program — including SBA's massive data call, the suspension of 1,100 firms, and heightened scrutiny on sole source awards above $20M.

But despite the headlines, Sam explains why this may actually be the strongest moment in 8A history: the program reached a record $26B in awards in 2025, competition is shrinking, and small businesses that stay compliant can emerge with more opportunity than ever. The conversation also challenges misconceptions around "DEI labeling," highlights the true purpose of sole source contracting, and calls for SBA to expand visibility into industries like advanced manufacturing beyond the usual IT and construction pipeline.

Key Takeaways:

  • 8A is at an all-time high ($26B in 2025) even as 1,100 firms were suspended, reducing competition for active participants.

  • Sole source contracts make up only 2–3% of federal spending, while 96% of sole source awards go to non-8A giants like Boeing and Lockheed.

  • The biggest advantage right now belongs to firms that stay compliant, resilient, and relationship-driven before opportunities hit the bid platforms.

If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/

Website: https://govcongiants.org/

Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding

Learn more about Sam Le: https://www.govconintelligence.com/

Website: https://www.samlelaw.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samlelaw/

Sam's Podcast: https://www.govconintelligence.com/podcast

Total Play: 0