Explore how FAR modernization and the Rule of Two expansion are reshaping small business opportunities.
Key Topics:
- Rule of Two expansion across MACs and task orders
- FAR modernization and small business access
- Compliance and eligibility updates
- Positioning for FY26–27 competition
Theme: Positioning for Success Under New Acquisition Frameworks
As federal acquisition undergoes significant modernization, small businesses are navigating new rules, new competition structures, new opportunities and new risk profiles.
This session explores how the expansion of the Rule of Two, FAR modernization efforts, and broader small business participation initiatives are reshaping the competitive landscape. Join experts from key federal agencies as we breakdown what’s changing, what it means for industry, and how small businesses can position themselves for success in FY26–27.
Speakers
MODERATOR:
Anna Patsel-Powell: Chief Operating Officer, Nginering (Confirmed)
SPEAKERS:
Charles Smith: Director, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Small Business Programs (Confirmed)
Theresa Terry: Director, DAF Enterprise Program Solutions, Office of Administration & Management, Office of the Secretary of the Air Force (Confirmed)
Dwight D. Deneal, SES: Assistant Administrator, Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP), NASA (Confirmed)
Chanel Bankston-Carter, SES: Executive Director, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (Confirmed)
Ryan Lambert: Associate Administrator, SBA Office of Government Contracting and Business Development, U.S. Small Business Administration (Confirmed)
Agenda
Agenda
10:00 AM – 10:05 AM (5 min)
Welcome & Opening Remarks
ACT-IAC Small Business Alliance leadership will open the session with an overview of event goals, key reform drivers, and the importance of proactive engagement with acquisition policy changes.
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10:05 AM – 10:20 AM (15 min)
The Future of Competition Under FAR Modernization
Purpose: Set the stage and create a shared understanding A high-level briefing on how key reforms—from the Rule of Two expansion to FAR updates—are intended to strengthen and complicate competition and small business access across governmentwide acquisition strategies.
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10:20 AM – 10:45 AM (25 min)
Panel Discussion Deep Dive: How the FAR & the Rule of Two Reforms Help Small Business
Proposed Gov Invites: FAR Council, SBA Office of Advocacy, GAO This session focuses on the upsides of the new regulatory framework. Panelists will explore how expanded Rule of Two analysis, earlier SBA/PCR involvement, and increased documentation requirements can meaningfully improve access for qualified small businesses—especially on MACs, GWACs, and agency IDIQs.---
10:45 AM – 11:10 AM (25 min)
Panel Discussion Deep Dive: FAR Modernization & Compliance Updates: The Consequences Small Businesses Need to Know About
Suggested agencies: FAR Council, OFPP, DoD, NASA This segment takes a candid look at the practical challenges created by FAR modernization. Experts will address critical FAR changes and how small businesses can be prepared for what’s ahead.---
11:10 AM – 11:30 AM (20 min)
Positioning for FY26–FY27: Strategies for How Small Businesses Can Navigate the New Rules and Succeed
This segment provides actionable insights for navigating the next generation of competition, including shifts in evaluation criteria, capability alignment, and readiness strategies for upcoming procurements. Panelists will offer guidance on positioning, engagement, and readiness strategies that align with how agencies are actually implementing Rule of Two and FAR reforms.
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11:30 AM – 11:55 AM (25 min)
Agency Q&A: What’s Coming Next in Acquisition Reform?
Invited Agencies: FAR Council, OFPP, SBA Office of Advocacy, GAO, DoD, NASA An interactive Q&A session with federal agency representatives to address questions on Rule of Two implementation, FAR reform milestones, small business participation initiatives, and future competition expectations.
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11:55 AM – 12:00 PM (5 min)
Closing Remarks & Next Steps
· Thank you to agency participants
· Resources and follow-up materials
· Upcoming ACT-IAC SBA events
Appian
7950 Jones Branch Dr.
McLean, 22102
United States
Event Fees
$0.00 for Members
$80.00 for Non Members