Navy Plans 8(a) Set-Asides The Navy has agreed to set aside some work for 8(a) companies under its Seaport-e multiple award contract. More than 240 8(a) companies hold Seaport-e contracts. The Navy said it spent nearly $2.5 billion through the vehicle last year, with small firms getting about one-third of the dollars. Set-asides were already permitted for service-disabled veteran-owned companies, HUBZone companies and small businesses. Under an agreement with SBA, the Naval Sea Systems Command will choose which contracts to set aside. The 8(a) firms will be able to compete for 22 types of services, including research and development support, engineering and acquisition logistics support. Sole source awards are not authorized. “This is a great example of a military department and a civilian agency working together to expand opportunities and improve diversification of our industrial base.  I applaud the Navy and SBA’s hard work to realize the vision to provide for competitive 8(a) restricted competition under the SeaPort-e program,” said Tim Foreman, director of the Navy’s Office of Small Business Programs.  Acting SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza called the agreement “a monumental and historical moment for SBA.” The Navy also plans to institute an annual rolling admissions period to allow new small businesses into Seaport-e.