DOL’s July Outreach Session Could Be a Game-Changer for Small GovCon Firms
If you’re a small business eyeing federal contracting work, especially with the Department of Labor (DOL), clear your calendar for July 16. That’s when DOL’s Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) is hosting its next virtual Vendor Outreach Session—a low-barrier, high-opportunity event that could set your BD pipeline on fire.
Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what you should do to make the most of it.
What’s the Deal?
The July 16, 2025 session runs from 8:00–11:00 a.m. CDT and offers small businesses direct access to DOL procurement and program officials across multiple sub-agencies. These events are designed to boost small business participation in DOL contracting—nearly $2 billion worth of it annually. You’ll get face time (virtually) with decision-makers from agencies like OSHA, ETA, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Expect breakout sessions and 1-on-1 meetings where you can pitch your capabilities and learn about upcoming procurement needs.
Registration closed July 11, but if you made it in—good move. If not, this guide still offers strategic insights that apply year-round to working with DOL.
Why This Event Is a Big Deal for Small Businesses
DOL consistently ranks among the top agencies in small business engagement. In FY2023, they awarded nearly $1 billion in prime contracts to small businesses. That included:
$295M to HUBZone firms (a DOL record)
$151M to Women-Owned Small Businesses
$137M to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses
Translation: If you hold a federal contracting certification—like 8a certification assistance, women business certification, HUBZone, or disabled veteran small business certification—DOL is likely looking for a firm like yours.
On top of that, DOL is shifting some programs from grants to contracts. That means nonprofits and small firms with experience in training, outreach, or program management (especially those with experience in Grant Writing for Nonprofits or WIOA programs) should watch for newly recompeted RFPs.
How to Show Up Strong
Whether you're attending this session or planning for future ones, here’s how to stand out:
Refine your capability statement to reflect DOL’s priorities—especially in workforce development (NAICS 611519, 541611), IT modernization (NAICS 541512, 541511), and DEI-focused programming.
Tailor your pitch. Lead with your impact, not just your services. For example: “We developed a case management system that helped reduce unemployment recidivism by 25%.”
Know your codes. If you haven’t aligned your SAM profile with best-fit NAICS codes for government contractors, now’s the time. Bonus: Check if you’re listed under best NAICS codes for small business on DOL’s DSBS search.
Update certifications. SBA 8a certification services, women owned small business certification, and SDVOSB are all valuable differentiators for DOL.
Ask smart questions. In your meetings, don’t just pitch—probe. Ask what contracts are being recompeted, which contractor NAICS code they use most, or how they handle subcontracting on large awards.
After the Event: Don’t Let the Trail Go Cold
The real magic happens in the follow-up. Here's your post-event action plan:
Send thank-you emails within 48 hours. Mention something specific from your conversation.
Follow up with small business specialists at each sub-agency—names, numbers, and emails are public and worth using.
Watch the forecast like a hawk. DOL’s Acquisition Forecast and SAM.gov should become weekly reads.
Reach out to SBA PCRs and CMRs. They can help get your firm noticed by primes or advocate for set-asides.
Tap into SBA programs like the All Small Mentor-Protégé Program if you’re not ready to prime. Teaming is often your best foot in the door.
Final Take
The DOL OSDBU Vendor Outreach Session is more than just a virtual networking event—it’s a strategic access point to one of the most small-business-friendly agencies in the federal space. Whether you’re seeking 8a contracts services, targeting government procurement vehicles, or navigating the government contracting certification process, this is the kind of opportunity you want to prepare for and maximize.
Even if you missed this round, the insights here apply to DOL and other agencies with similar outreach events. Consistent engagement, smart positioning, and follow-through are what win in the long game of government contracting.
For more practical tips on how to stay in front of buyers after outreach events, check out “The Email You Should Be Sending Every Week to Contracting Officers (But Probably Aren’t)”.
If you aren't a Squared Compass partner, what are you waiting for? From getting your business set up with specific government set aside programs at both the State and Federal level, to being empowered by a Fractional Capture team to win government contracts, to receiving tailored government contract opportunities Squared Compass delivers immense value which helps propel our partners to success. Schedule a chat with our team today.
