The mission of the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Small Business Office (AFRL/SB) is to advance the discovery, development, and delivery of transformative capabilities for the Air and Space Force by expanding AFRL’s industrial base. This is accomplished by maximizing the involvement of small businesses as essential providers of innovative, cost-effective, and customer-focused solutions that address current and future warfighter needs within AFRL’s acquisition offices.
AFRL/SB fosters innovation, economic growth, and job creation through initiatives such as outreach and education, training programs, advocacy, matchmaking events, and facilitating access to both prime and subcontracting opportunities. Serving as a critical liaison between the Laboratory and small businesses—including those in designated economic categories—AFRL/SB promotes equitable access to contracting opportunities by collaborating closely with acquisition teams. As a small business-friendly organization, AFRL invests approximately $2.5 billion annually in small business awards.