EligibilityDiscovery

What determines if my business is considered "small" for federal contracts?

Quick Answer: Size standards vary by NAICS code and are based on average annual revenue (typically $750K-$47M) or average employees (typically 500-1,500) over the past 3-5 years.

Detailed Answer

Small business size determination: **How Size Standards Work:** - Each NAICS code has specific threshold - Revenue-based: 3-5 year average receipts - Employee-based: 12-month average employees - Standards range widely by industry **Example Size Standards:** - IT Services (541512): $34 million - Engineering (541330): $25.5 million - Construction (varies): $18.5-$45 million - Manufacturing: Often 500-1,500 employees **Calculating Your Size:** - Include all receipts (gross revenue) - Include affiliates' revenue/employees - Average over measurement period - Compare to NAICS-specific standard **Affiliation Impact:** - Related companies counted together - Includes investors with control - Includes joint ventures - Can disqualify otherwise small businesses

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Read Full Guide: Small Business Size Standards: Revenue and Employee Thresholds