Guides · 5 min read
What is a set-aside, and do you qualify?
Updated October 29, 2026
A set-aside reserves a contract for a group of businesses, so only they may bid. Large companies are kept out, which is why set-asides are where most beginners win their first contracts.
Small business set-asides
Whether you are small depends on your industry: each NAICS code has a size standard, measured in employees or average annual revenue. Most new businesses qualify easily. Purchases between $15,000 and $350,000 are generally set aside for small businesses whenever at least two are expected to compete.
Certified set-asides
- 8(a): for socially and economically disadvantaged owners. SBA certification required.
- HUBZone: for businesses located in, and employing people from, historically underutilized areas. SBA certification required.
- Women-owned (WOSB) and economically disadvantaged women-owned (EDWOSB): SBA certification required.
- Service-disabled veteran-owned (SDVOSB): certified by SBA through its veteran certification program.
How it shows up on a contract
Every listing names its set-aside: Total Small Business, 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, SDVOSB, or none (full and open). If you do not hold the status a set-aside requires, your offer cannot be accepted, so check before you price.
ZukoBid reads each contract's set-aside against your profile and marks it Looks eligible or Likely not eligible, so you only spend time on contracts you can actually win.
Sources
- SBA size standards
- SBA contracting assistance programs
- FAR 19.502-2, setting aside acquisitions for small business
General information, not legal advice. Rules and thresholds change; the solicitation and the official rule are the authority.
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