The Section 809 DOD acquisition reform panel wants to eliminate DOD small business set-asides in favor of a 5% bid offset.  OMB wants to cut the number of contracts, inevitably cutting the number of small business contractors.  The SBA is conducting ever-more intrusive searches into small business finances.  Oh yeah, you’re also still competing for business against companies of all sizes.  Doing business with the government has never been easy for many small businesses, especially those without any further socio-economic designation.  It’s not getting any easier now, aside from changes at the VA to favor small and small disabled veteran-owned businesses.  Small business owners can be excused if they’re a bit paranoid.  What to do in these situations?  First, don’t panic, but do pay attention.  Make sure your voice is heard on potential changes like the Section 809 recommendation.  Second, focus on being the best business you can be.  That usually means focusing on a specific universe of current and potential customers.  Third, make sure you have the right relationships, whether with an agency or other contractors.  No matter what happens with rules and regulations, relationships matter.  Paying attention to your surroundings and staying focused on what’s ahead of you isn’t just great advice for teenage drivers.  It can help your small business ride the wave of changes and still succeed.