Recently, I had the opportunity this week to engage in a conversation with Ms. Danielle Kurtz, SES Director of the Office of Small Business Programs at the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), Department of Defense. Our discussion centered around the critical issue of obsolete parts and the urgent need for more small business manufacturers to support the defense supply chain. This blog aims to highlight the key points of our conversation, emphasizing the importance of small businesses in addressing these challenges and providing insights on how to get involved.

The Challenge of Obsolete Parts in the Defense Industry

Obsolete parts pose a significant challenge to the Department of Defense (DoD). As military systems age, finding replacement parts becomes increasingly difficult. This issue not only affects the readiness and reliability of defense systems but also drives up maintenance costs and extends repair times. The problem of obsolescence is particularly acute in sectors where technology evolves rapidly, making older components harder to source.

The Role of Small Business Manufacturers

Small businesses play a crucial role in the defense supply chain, particularly in addressing the issue of obsolete parts. These businesses bring innovation, agility, and specialized skills that are essential for developing and producing components that are no longer available from original manufacturers. Here are a few reasons why small businesses are vital:

1. Innovation and Flexibility: Small businesses often have the ability to innovate and adapt more quickly than larger corporations. This flexibility allows them to develop creative solutions for producing obsolete parts.

2. Specialized Expertise: Many small businesses possess specialized knowledge and skills in niche areas. This expertise is invaluable in reverse engineering and manufacturing obsolete components.

3. Cost-Effective Solutions: Small businesses can often provide cost-effective solutions for producing obsolete parts, helping to reduce overall maintenance and repair costs for the DoD.

Insights from the Conversation with Ms. Danielle Kurtz

During my conversation with Ms. Kurtz, several key points emerged regarding the need for small business manufacturers in the defense supply chain:

1. Increased Engagement: Ms. Kurtz emphasized the need for increased engagement between the DLA and small businesses. She highlighted the importance of outreach programs and industry days that facilitate direct communication and collaboration.

2. Procurement Opportunities: The DLA is actively seeking small business manufacturers to participate in procurement opportunities. Ms. Kurtz pointed out that there are numerous contracts and subcontracts available for small businesses willing to address the challenge of obsolete parts.

3. Support and Resources: The Office of Small Business Programs at the DLA provides various resources and support to help small businesses navigate the defense contracting process. These include training programs, mentorship, and assistance with understanding procurement requirements.

How Small Businesses Can Get Involved

For small businesses interested in contributing to the defense supply chain, there are several steps to take:

1. Register with SAM.gov: The first step for any business looking to contract with the DoD is to register with the System for Award Management (SAM). This is a mandatory requirement for participating in federal procurement. Visit SAM.gov to start the registration process.

2. Explore Procurement Opportunities: Regularly check the Defense Logistics Agency’s procurement opportunities on DLA's procurement page. This site lists current solicitations and provides information on how to submit proposals.

3. Attend Industry Events: Participating in industry days and other outreach events hosted by the DLA and other defense agencies can provide valuable networking opportunities and insights into upcoming procurement needs.

4. Utilize Support Programs: Take advantage of the resources and support offered by the Office of Small Business Programs. These programs are designed to help small businesses understand and navigate the complexities of defense contracting.

5. Leverage the Go-to-Market Platform: Our Go-to-Market Platform offers comprehensive tools and resources to help small businesses succeed in the defense contracting arena. From detailed roadmaps and expert coaching to a vast resource library, our platform is designed to streamline the process and increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

The conversation with Ms. Danielle Kurtz underscored the critical need for small business manufacturers in the defense supply chain, particularly in addressing the challenge of obsolete parts. Small businesses bring innovation, expertise, and cost-effective solutions that are essential for maintaining the readiness and reliability of defense systems.

By engaging with the DLA, exploring procurement opportunities, attending industry events, and utilizing available support programs, small businesses can play a vital role in supporting national security objectives.

For more insights and resources on how to get involved, visit SAM.gov and our Go-to-Market Platform. Together, we can address the challenges of obsolete parts and ensure the continued strength and readiness of our defense systems.