The Army Office of Small Business Programs (AOSBP) participated in the VIP GROW 2026 Small Business Federal Leaders Panel on May 21, 2026, at the Bolger Center in Potomac, Maryland. Hosted by the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP), the event focused on helping Veteran-owned small businesses strengthen their ability to compete in the federal marketplace.

Ms. Pamela Callicutt, Acting Director of the Army Office of Small Business Programs, represented the Army alongside leaders from the Department of Veterans Affairs, Space Force, NASA, GSA, and Department of Transportation. Throughout the discussion, speakers shared practical guidance on how businesses can better align with federal acquisition priorities, increase procurement readiness, and position themselves for long-term success in the defense marketplace.

During the panel, Ms. Callicutt emphasized that AOSBP serves as a policy and advocacy office that helps connect industry with Army organizations and acquisition stakeholders across the enterprise. She encouraged attendees to focus on becoming procurement-ready by ensuring they are registered in SAM.gov, conducting market research, and developing a strong understanding of Army mission priorities before pursuing opportunities.

A key focus of the discussion was LYNX, the Department of War’s emerging platform designed to increase small business visibility and improve access to defense marketplace opportunities. Ms. Callicutt encouraged attendees to establish profiles and upload capability statements to help position their companies for future engagement opportunities across the defense industrial base.

Speakers highlighted the importance of active industry engagement, including participation in Industry Days, matchmaking events, and Requests for Information (RFIs). Panelists stressed that businesses should provide detailed and thoughtful responses to RFIs rather than relying solely on generic capability statements. Strong responses help acquisition teams better understand industry capabilities and emerging technologies available to support mission requirements.

The discussion also addressed cybersecurity readiness and the growing importance of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) compliance across the defense industrial base. In response to attendee questions, Ms. Callicutt directed participants to Project Spectrum, a Department of War supported resource that provides tools, training, and guidance to help small businesses strengthen cybersecurity readiness and prepare for evolving requirements.

The VIP GROW 2026 panel highlighted the critical role Veteran-owned small businesses play in supporting Army readiness, strengthening supply chain resilience, and delivering innovation and capability to the warfighter.

View full article here [PDF - 135.1 KB].