The Army Office of Small Business Programs participated in AFCEA Belvoir Industry Days on May 20, 2025, at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center in Alexandria, Virginia. The event brought together government and industry leaders to explore how small businesses can play a greater role in supporting the Department of Defense. The Army Office of Small Business Programs joined a featured panel discussion titled “Opportunity in Partnership: Small Business, JVs and the DoD Mission.”
Panelists included Ms. Kimberly Buehler, Director of the Army Office of Small Business Programs, and Ms. Allison Strong, Deputy for Small Business at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division. Ms. Lane Copeland, Vice President of Programs and Operations at QBE LLC, moderated the discussion. Together, they shared updates on procurement policy, contracting trends, and the steps small businesses can take to align with Army needs.
Ms. Buehler addressed recent changes to federal small business goals, including the lowered target for small-disadvantaged business awards. While these goals help shape planning, she made it clear that the Army focuses on meaningful outcomes, not just numbers. “We consistently exceed our small business goals,” she said. “But our focus is not just meeting targets. It is bringing in the right capabilities to support the mission.”
She encouraged businesses to engage early by responding to Requests for Information (RFI) and following up with questions or feedback. For companies new to federal contracting, she recommended subcontracting as a practical first step to build experience. “If you have worked as a subcontractor, ask your prime for a performance rating. That can open doors,” she said.
Panelists also discussed the Army’s shift in how it approaches technology. Instead of relying solely on large, customized systems, the Army is looking for commercial, ready-to-use solutions that can be tested and fielded quickly. This model creates more opportunities for small businesses that can respond rapidly and offer innovative, flexible capabilities.
Ms. Buehler closed the session by encouraging small businesses to stay engaged with Army priorities and upcoming events. She highlighted the AUSA 2025 Small Business Seminar and Matchmaking Sessions as a key opportunity to meet with Army buyers and better understand upcoming needs. “We want small businesses in the room, at the table, and part of the solution,” she said.
As the Army continues to modernize and strengthen its industrial base, the Army Office of Small Business Programs remains committed to helping small businesses grow, compete, and deliver in support of the mission.
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