Montgomery County, MD

01/10/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/10/2025 09:53

Montgomery County Office of Procurement Launches Veteran Business Preference Program

For Immediate Release: Friday, January 10, 2025

The Montgomery County Office of Procurement launched a Veteran Business Preference Program (VBPP) on Jan. 2, as part of the Local Small Business Reserve Program (LSBRP).

In 2024, the Montgomery County Council amended the LSBRP regulation to expand opportunities for Veteran-Owned businesses located in the County. Verified Veteran-Owned businesses will receive additional evaluation points worth five percent of the total available points for proposals submitted under the LSBRP.

"This new Veteran Business Preference Program reflects our commitment to honoring those who have served our country by providing meaningful opportunities for their businesses to thrive here in Montgomery County," said County Executive Marc Elrich. "Veteran-owned businesses bring unique skills, leadership, and resilience to our local economy. By creating pathways for these businesses to succeed, we're not only recognizing their sacrifices but also strengthening the economic fabric of our community. This program is a step forward in ensuring that Montgomery County remains a place where everyone, including our veterans, has the chance to succeed."

To be eligible for these points, a business must be certified in the Local Small Business Reserve Program (LSBRP) and have a valid Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) certificate from the U.S. Small Business Administration or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, visit the Local Small Business Reserve Program's website.

"By incorporating veterans preference points into our County solicitations within the local small business reserve program, we not only honor the service and sacrifices of our nation's heroes but also foster a more diverse and resilient local economy, where veteran-owned businesses can thrive and contribute to the well-being of our community," said Director and Chief Procurement Officer Ash Shetty.

The Office of Procurement hosts an Online Open House on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. The Jan. 15 session will focus on the new VBPP.

"The passage of Bill 10-24 further demonstrates the County's commitment to Veterans and their families and shows much deserved support for their service to our country," said Michael Wilson, chair of the Montgomery County Commission on Veterans Affairs.

For more information, visit the Office of Procurement's website.

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Release ID: 25-017
Media Contact: Grace Denno 240-777-9959
Categories: Business