XL EagleCertificate of Competency (Certificate of Competency (COC))
Certificate of Competency stands for Certificate of Competency (COC). A Certificate of Competency is issued by the Small Business Administration when a contracting officer finds a small business apparent winner not responsible. Instead of rejecting the small business outright, the CO must generally refer the case to SBA.
SBA reviews the firm's capacity, credit, and other responsibility factors, and the firm can submit more information. If SBA issues a COC, the contracting officer is generally bound to treat the firm as responsible for that contract. SBA generally acts within 15 business days after receiving the referral.
Why it matters to a small contractor
If you lose an award because the CO doubts your ability, a COC gives you a second chance. Respond to SBA quickly with strong evidence: financing, equipment, staffing plans, subcontractor commitments, and past work.
Example
A small electrical contractor is found not responsible because of thin financials. SBA contacts them, they submit a bank commitment letter and a surety letter, and SBA issues a COC, so the firm gets the award.
Certificate of Competency: common questions
Who issues a Certificate of Competency?
The Small Business Administration issues it after a contracting officer refers a small business found not responsible.
Does a COC cover integrity issues?
The COC process covers most responsibility elements. Check the current FAR and SBA rules, since some eligibility issues are handled differently.
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