Small Business Participation in Federal Set-Aside Contracting

Small Business Participation in Federal Set-Aside Contracting by Steven R. King II MS, Troy State University, 1998 BS, Colorado Christian University, 2013 BS, Wayland Baptist University, 1992 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University August 2017 Abstract In the United States, 99.9% of small businesses, which account for two-thirds of new jobs annually, do not participate in the federal set-aside program. Half of all small businesses will not survive their first 5 years. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore strategies that U.S. small business leaders operating within the greater Colorado Springs metro area used to participate successfully in the federal contracting set-aside program. Von Bertalanffy’s systems theory grounded the study. Data collection included semistructured interviews with an intensity purposeful sampling of 3 small business leaders participating successfully in the federal contracting set-aside program while operating within the greater Colorado Springs metropolitan area. Transcription of audio recordings from the interviews ensured data accuracy. Researcher interpretations were member checked to validate the credibility of the findings. Pattern matching and crosscase synthesis techniques facilitated data analysis and helped to identify emergent themes. The 3 themes from the study were (a) strategic management, (b) stakeholder recognition, and (c) value creation. Of these 3 themes, the most prolific was strategic management, as it began with a detailed strategy to target clients, create initiatives, and set priorities. This study may contribute to social change by promoting increased job creation through participation in the set-aside program. Expanded distribution of economic seeding to a broader representation of local communities may contribute to reducing social dependencies for the unemployed and the underemployed in a recovering economy. Small businesses contribute to local jobs, local revenue, and local taxes, all of which drive local economies.In the United States, 99.9% of small businesses, which account for two-thirds of new jobs annually, do not participate in the federal set-aside program. Half of all small businesses will not survive their first 5 years. The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore strategies that U.S. small business leaders operating within the greater Colorado Springs metro area used to participate successfully in the federal contracting set-aside program. Von Bertalanffy’s systems theory grounded the study. Data collection included semistructured interviews with an intensity purposeful sampling of 3 small business leaders participating successfully in the federal contracting set-aside program while operating within the greater Colorado Springs metropolitan area. Transcription of audio recordings from the interviews ensured data accuracy. Researcher interpretations were member checked to validate the credibility of the findings. Pattern matching and crosscase synthesis techniques facilitated data analysis and helped to identify emergent themes. The 3 themes from the study were (a) strategic management, (b) stakeholder recognition, and (c) value creation. Of these 3 themes, the most prolific was strategic management, as it began with a detailed strategy to target clients, create initiatives, and set priorities. This study may contribute to social change by promoting increased job creation through participation in the set-aside program. Expanded distribution of economic seeding to a broader representation of local communities may contribute to reducing social dependencies for the unemployed and the underemployed in a recovering economy. Small businesses contribute to local jobs, local revenue, and local taxes, all of which drive local economies. Small Business Participation in Federal Set-Aside Contracting by Steven R. King II MS, Troy State University, 1998 BS, Colorado Christian University, 2013 BS, Wayland Baptist University, 1992 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University August 2017 Dedication I dedicate my efforts to the glory of God. To all U.S. veterans past, present, and future who provide the incredible gift of freedom through unrivaled, selfless service. Freedom of expression allowed me to follow the facts, write the truth, and contribute in a small way to the continued greatness of our country. Acknowledgments To my wonderful wife, Jackie, thank you for supporting me through this journey. We have walked this path together, and I am forever grateful for your unconditional love. You carried me through the most difficult challenges and encouraged me to continue through to completion. To my family and friends, thank you for your patience and understanding while I put this project before spending time with you. Your willingness to accept my priorities without question is a testament to the quality of our relationship. Dr. Matt, you guided me through the wickets to reach the final destination. You always made yourself available when I needed advice. You always addressed my questions and comments with strength, conviction, and compassion. I am profoundly appreciative of all your efforts.