Request for Information - OCONUS Small Business

Enhancing Opportunities for American Small Businesses in Europe and Africa: A Call for Input The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Europe District is committed to increasing mission effectiveness and expanding opportunities for American small businesses across Europe and Africa. As we explore ways to implement FAR Part 19 more effectively, we invite your expertise and insights to inform our strategy. Currently, our utilization of small business programs is limited due to operational complexities, lack of implementation guidance, and limitations from Status of Forces and International Agreements. To better support American small businesses, we are seeking input to enhance implementation of FAR Part 19 and increase small business participation in our contracting opportunities. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us develop a more effective approach. Please take a moment to share your thoughts on the following questions: 1. Do you currently have a contracting relationship with the Europe District? 2. What is your business size classification (large or small)? 3. Do you work with another U.S. Army Corps of Engineers district or U.S. government agency? If so, which one, and do you perform work in either Europe, Africa, or both? 4. Do you have an established network of partners or subcontractors that you collaborate with in Europe, Africa, or both? 5. If you operate in Europe, are there specific countries where you can or cannot work, or where you are unwilling to work? 6. If you operate in Africa, are there specific countries where you can or cannot work, or where you are unwilling to work? 7. Do you maintain a physical, long-term presence in Europe, Africa, or both? If so, where is it located? 8. If you are a small business, which programs do you participate in (e.g., 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB)? 9. When working in Europe, Africa, or both have you encountered challenges in meeting minimum self-performance requirements in specific countries? 10. What additional factors should the Europe District consider when developing a new strategy to support American small businesses in alignment with the spirit and intent of FAR Part 19? Your input will help us create a more effective and inclusive approach to supporting American small businesses in Europe and Africa. We appreciate your time and expertise in this matter and look forward to hearing your thoughts.