The Defense Logistics Agency’s Office of Small Business Programs is launching a new initiative called the Mentor-Protege Program (MPP) to support small vendors in expanding their capabilities. Through this program, successful DLA prime contractors will provide developmental assistance to small businesses looking to enhance their skill sets, refine processes, and navigate federal acquisition procedures. The goal of the MPP is to strengthen the defense industrial base by giving small businesses opportunities to grow and learn from larger suppliers, ultimately filling critical gaps in the supply chain in the future.
The MPP is an extension of a Defense Department pilot program that was established during the first Gulf War and has now become permanent under the fiscal 2023 National Defense Authorization Act. DLA’s mentor-protege agreements will be funded by the DOD and tailored to meet specific needs within DLA’s supply chains. The program is seen as an investment in expanding the industrial base by building up the capabilities of small businesses to better respond to the needs of warfighters. Mentors may provide assistance in various areas such as software, inventory control, manufacturing, test and evaluation, quality assurance, and general business processes like personnel management and systems compliance.
The agreements between mentors and proteges in the MPP will last for three years with the option for two additional one-year extensions, pending approval from the DOD. Each agreement outlines specific tasks to be completed by the protege for their growth, with milestones set by the mentor and protege. While proteges do not need prior government experience, agreements must be approved by the DOD before being awarded. DLA evaluates proposed agreements and participants, offering matchmaking sessions to help participants find suitable partners for collaboration. The program will initially focus on supporting specific weapons systems to address critical areas in the defense industrial base.
The Mentor-Protege Program aligns with the National Defense Strategy’s priority of strengthening the defense industrial base to produce and sustain a full range of capabilities for U.S., allied, and partner forces. The National Defense Industrial Strategy emphasizes the importance of creating resilient suppliers to maintain a competitive advantage. More information on the DLA Mentor-Protege Program, including opportunities and forecasts, can be found on DLA’s Small Business webpage and in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Appendix I. By fostering collaboration between large prime contractors and small businesses, the program aims to enhance the resilience and capabilities of the defense industrial base to meet the challenges posed by competitors and adversaries.
