SBA Mentor-Protégé Program

One of the best methods for a small firm to gain new skills and to participate in procurements for which it would not otherwise qualify due to a lack of past performance or resources, is to participate in the SBA's mentor-protégé program (MPP).  The program also benefits the mentor by providing it access to set-aside procurements for which it would not qualify.

The SBA's MPP helps eligible small businesses (i.e., protégés) gain capacity and win government contracts through partnerships with more experienced companies (i.e., mentor) that are willing to contractual commit to helping the protégé grow.  

To enter the MPP, the mentor and protégé will enter into a Mentor-Protégé Agreement, and then enter the agreement along with other required documents to the SBA.  The parties are also required to complete online training regarding the program.  

Once the SBA approves the mentor-protégé relationship, the parties often submit offers through a joint venture.  If compliant with the SBA's regulations, a joint venture between a mentor and protégé is not subject to many of the size affiliation rules.

If you have any questions about the mentor-protégé program or joint ventures, please contact one of our experienced government contract lawyers at (202) 609-7386 or via the contact form.