Restoring the United States Department of War: What It Means for Small Businesses

In September 2025, the Trump administration announced a significant move to restore the United States Department of War, a critical shift that has implications not only for national security but also for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) engaged in government contracts. This change presents a unique opportunity for SMBs interested in expanding their services to the federal government, especially those who are veterans, women, or minority-owned businesses.

How Can Your Business Benefit?

1. Increased Contract Opportunities
As the government reallocates resources to the newly restored Department of War, there is expected to be a surge in contract awards aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness. This is where your business can step in. If you provide services or products that align with military needs, now is the time to prepare your capabilities statement and engage with contracting vehicles.

2. Government Programs for Small Businesses
Several government programs are designed to assist small businesses, including those owned by veterans (VOSB), service-disabled veterans (SDVOSB), and those in HUBZone areas. These programs often provide preferential treatment in the procurement process, financial assistance, and resources to help you grow your business. By registering for these programs, you can access valuable support that can enhance your competitive edge.

For more information about these programs, learn about VOSB, SDVOSB, and HUBZone certification at Select GCR.

3. Access to Funding and Resources
The government’s renewed focus on defense might lead to new funding opportunities. This includes grants and contracts specifically earmarked for small businesses that can provide innovative solutions. Knowing how to navigate these funding pathways can be crucial for your business’s growth. Check out our guide on Finding Funding for Your Business to help you identify potential financial resources.

4. Networking and Partnerships
With the influx of contracts in defense, building relationships with key decision-makers within the government and other contractors can be beneficial. Attending government contracting conferences, workshops, and networking events can open doors for partnerships and collaborations that can enhance your business’s visibility and credibility.

5. Competitive Market Insights
Keeping abreast of changes in government contracts, policy and its impact on government spending can give your business a competitive edge. Regularly reviewing industry reports and analyses can help you stay informed about market trends and emerging opportunities.

Visit our Blog for the latest insights and updates on government contracting trends.

Preparing Your Business

1. Register for SAM and GSA
If you haven’t already, registering your business in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the General Services Administration (GSA) is essential. These registrations are required for any business wanting to contract with the federal government. Not only do they facilitate the bidding process, but they also provide you with access to government resources and support.

For a step-by-step guide on how to get registered, visit our page on Registering for Government Contracts.

2. Strengthen Your Capabilities Statement
A well-crafted capabilities statement is crucial for standing out in the government contracting space. It should clearly outline your business’s competencies, past performance, and differentiators. For tips on building an effective capabilities statement, refer to our resource on Creating a Winning Capabilities Statement.

3. Build Your Team
As contracts start rolling in, ensuring you have the right team in place to handle increased workload is critical. Consider hiring or training staff who have experience in government contracting or military operations. This expertise can greatly enhance your business’s ability to meet government requirements successfully.

4. Stay Compliant
Government contracts comes with its own set of compliance requirements. Familiarize yourself with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and other relevant guidelines to ensure your business remains compliant throughout the contracting process. To learn more about compliance, check out our Compliance Resources.

5. Monitor Opportunities
Use platforms like Select GCR Pro to monitor contract opportunities relevant to your business. Regularly checking these platforms can provide you with timely information on upcoming contracts and allow you to prepare your bids accordingly.

Conclusion

The restoration of the United States Department of War presents a wealth of opportunities for small businesses looking to engage with the federal government. With increased funding, new contract opportunities, and supportive government programs aimed at helping SMBs, now is the time to prepare your business for success in this evolving landscape. By leveraging available resources and aligning your services with government needs, you can position your company for growth and impact.

For more tailored resources and support as you navigate the government contracting landscape, feel free to reach out to us at Select GCR. We specialize in helping businesses like yours thrive in government contracts, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

Sources:
1. U.S. Small Business Administration. (2023). Small Business Ownership.

2. Defense Acquisition University. (2023). Contracting with the Department of Defense.

3. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2023). Veteran-Owned Small Business Program.

4. Whitehouse Executive Order (2025). Restoring the United States Department of War – The White House