The Army Office of Small Business Programs (AOSBP) participated in the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) Program held in Potomac, Maryland, on March 20, 2025. This year’s theme, “Arming Vets to Win,” brought together federal agency leaders to share insights with veteran-owned businesses seeking growth, particularly in the international marketplace.

Ms. Pamela Callicutt, Deputy Director of AOSBP, represented the Army on a panel of senior leaders. She reinforced the Army’s long-standing commitment to working with small businesses, stating, “The Army is small business friendly.” She was joined by Mr. George Price, Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) at the U.S. Department of State, and Ms. Bianca Henderson, Director of the Office of Small Business Programs at Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC).

When asked what advice the panelists had for small businesses, Ms. Callicutt emphasized the importance of using APEX Accelerators. “One of the most underutilized tools available is the APEX Accelerators,” she said. “They can help you data mine and identify which agencies are actually buying what you're selling. Not all agencies have the same needs—let them do the research for you, for free.”

Mr. Price stressed that building relationships in the federal space takes time. “Be professionally persistent,” he said. “You won’t land a contract after a single conversation, but you can make a lasting impression if you come in focused on the agency’s challenges and how you can solve them.” He also advised businesses not to lead with their small business status. “Lead with the agency’s challenge and how you can solve it—not with your small business status. That should come last.”

Ms. Henderson echoed this sentiment, noting that many businesses rely too heavily on their socio-economic designation. “Focus on agency requirements and the value you provide—not just your socio-economic status,” she advised. For those pursuing international opportunities, she recommended highlighting that you are an American business. She added that subcontracting is often a valuable first step.

The panel also addressed emerging priorities across federal agencies. Artificial intelligence and machine learning were identified as key areas of focus. Ms. Callicutt encouraged small businesses without extensive past performance to consider strategies such as subcontracting, the Mentor-Protégé Program, and joint ventures to build credibility and compete for larger contracts.

Panelists concluded by emphasizing the importance of industry engagement. “Events like the Army’s AUSA annual conference give you a front-row seat to agency priorities,” said Ms. Callicutt. “At AUSA, there’s a chance for matchmaking and speaking directly to government and industry buyers.”

As the Army Office of Small Business Programs continues its work to strengthen the Defense Industrial Base, events like the VIP Program remain vital. These forums equip veteran-owned small businesses with the tools, knowledge, and access they need to succeed in the federal marketplace.

From Left to Right:
Mr. Mauricio Vera, Assistant National Director at VIP- Moderator |
Ms. Pamela Callicutt, Deputy Director of Army Small Business Programs | Mr. George Price, Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) at the U.S. Department of State } Ms. Bianca Henderson, Director of the Office of Small Business Programs at Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC).

The message was clear: do your research, stay persistent, and lead with value.

Participants had the chance to ask questions to the panelist.