Fiscal Year (FY) 2009 saw an increase of more than $3 billion in federal contracts awarded to small businesses from FY 2008. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s fourth annual small business procurement scorecard, the $96.8 billion represents 21.89 percent of all federal spending. This increase shows progress for small businesses, but still has not met the 23 percent goal.

“Small businesses received a record $96.8 billion in federal contracts in 2009. There was an increase in both dollars and contracting share for every small business category. This represents real progress, but not enough, we must reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the 23 percent goal is met and exceeded,” SBA Administrator Karen Mills said in a press release. “Federal contracts awarded to small businesses are a ‘win-win’ – providing small businesses with the opportunity to grow and create jobs, and offering innovative services and essential goods to the government at great value to the taxpayers.”

For a complete look at the report, go to http://www.sba.gov/