The Small Business Program (SBP) is designed to promote the growth of small businesses and enhance their presence in the contracting opportunities provided by the Aviation Authority. The Office of Business Opportunity & Exchange supports the use of the SBP for businesses that are based in Florida and meet the eligibility requirements set by the Aviation Authority. This program ensures that qualified small businesses have fair access to compete for and participate in the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) projects, aligning with the Authority’s commitment to fair and open competition.

The SBP fosters economic opportunity by increasing the participation of small businesses in construction, goods and services, and professional services. The program raises awareness of upcoming opportunities, offers educational support, and works to eliminate barriers that may hinder participation. Through these initiatives, the Aviation Authority strengthens its supplier base, encourages competition, and contributes to broader regional economic development.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify as a GOAA certified Small Business, a firm must meet the following criteria:

Domicile

The business must be domiciled in the State of Florida.

Business Size

A firm must be a for profit business registered with the Florida Division of Corporations and must meet small business size standards, defined as:

• Average annual gross receipts or number of full time employees at 50% or less of SBA size standards over the last three years.

Ownership and Control

• At least 51% ownership by individuals who meet the program’s small business criteria.
• Owners must control daily operations and major decision making.

Commercially Useful Function

The firm must perform at least 30% of the work with its own workforce and must be responsible for managing and supervising its portion of the contract.

Experience

The firm must have one year of continuous operation in the trade or related category, and the majority ownership must have at least one year of relevant work experience.

Personal Net Worth

Each qualifying owner must have a personal net worth not exceeding $3,500,000, excluding:

• Primary residence
• Equity in the applying business
• Cash value of life insurance
• Retirement designated assets “Personal net worth of each owner does not exceed $3,500,000…The individual’s equity in his or her primary residence [and] the equity in the business…shall be excluded.”

Certification is required for participation in this program. Applicants are required to use GOAA’s online Small Business B2G Certification Portal to submit applications and related documentation.