8(a) Streamlined Technology Acquisition Resource for Services (STARS III)
STARS III is a multiple-award, Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) government-wide acquisition contract vehicle that enables federal agencies to procure IT services and solutions from SBA-certified 8(a) small disadvantaged businesses.
What Is STARS III?
STARS III is a multiple-award, Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle that allows federal agencies to procure customized IT services and IT-based solutions from qualified SBA-certified 8(a) firms.
It is designed to streamline federal IT procurement while supporting small disadvantaged businesses participating in the Small Business Administration 8(a) Business Development Program.
Key Characteristics
Multiple-award contract structure allowing competition among approved vendors
Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract format
Reserved exclusively for SBA-certified 8(a) small disadvantaged businesses
Focused on IT services and IT-based solutions
Available for use by federal agencies government-wide
Core Structure
Multiple Award: Multiple 8(a) firms receive contract awards, enabling agencies to compete task orders among a pool of pre-qualified vendors.
IDIQ Format: The contract allows agencies to issue task orders for specific services over time without committing to a fixed quantity upfront, providing flexibility in procurement.
8(a) Eligibility: Only businesses certified under the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program are eligible to serve as prime contractors under the STARS III contract vehicle.
How It Works in Government Contracting
Where It Applies: Federal agencies use STARS III to efficiently acquire IT services and technology solutions while meeting small business participation goals.
Procurement Method: Agencies issue task orders under the STARS III contract vehicle instead of conducting full open-market procurements, significantly reducing acquisition timelines.
Examples of Services: Services available through STARS III include cybersecurity and risk management, software development, cloud computing, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and IT program management.
Practical Application
Example — Cloud Migration Project: A federal agency needs to migrate legacy systems to a cloud environment. Instead of issuing a new standalone solicitation, the agency issues a task order under STARS III.
Qualified 8(a) contract holders compete for the task order, enabling the agency to acquire services faster while ensuring compliance with small business participation requirements.
Regulatory Framework
STARS III operates under federal acquisition regulations and small business program requirements to ensure compliance, fair competition, and support for disadvantaged businesses.
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), governing federal procurement processes
General Services Administration (GSA) contract administration policies
Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program regulations
Why It Matters for Contractors
Access to Federal Buyers: STARS III provides awarded 8(a) firms with direct access to federal agencies seeking IT services and solutions.
Competitive Advantage: Being awarded a STARS III contract enhances credibility and increases visibility within the federal contracting marketplace.
Revenue Potential: Agencies may issue multiple task orders throughout the contract period, providing significant revenue opportunities for contract holders.
Strategic Growth: Participation enables 8(a) firms to build performance history, strengthen agency relationships, and expand their presence in federal contracting.
Common Misconceptions About STARS III
Only large firms benefit from STARS III.
STARS III is specifically designed to support SBA-certified 8(a) small disadvantaged businesses.
Contract award guarantees revenue.
Contract holders must still compete for individual task orders to generate revenue.
STARS III covers all types of services.
The contract vehicle is limited to IT services and IT-based solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can compete under STARS III?
Only SBA-certified 8(a) firms that have been awarded positions on the STARS III contract vehicle may compete for task orders.
Who can use STARS III?
All federal agencies are authorized users of the STARS III contract vehicle.
What makes STARS III streamlined?
Agencies avoid lengthy open-market procurements by issuing task orders under the pre-established STARS III contract vehicle.
Is subcontracting allowed under STARS III?
Yes. Subcontracting is permitted, but the prime contractor must comply with SBA 8(a) program performance and participation requirements.
Related Government Contracting Topics
SBA 8(a) Business Development Program: A federal program designed to support small disadvantaged businesses through contracting opportunities and business development assistance.
Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity Contracts: Flexible contract vehicles that allow agencies to issue multiple task orders over time without predefined quantities.
Task Orders: Individual procurement orders issued under an IDIQ contract vehicle for specific services or deliverables.
Government-Wide Acquisition Contracts: Contract vehicles that can be used by multiple federal agencies to procure common goods and services efficiently.