Equitable Contracting and Small Business Advancement Act

This bill requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to provide annual reports to Congress on its efforts to increase small business participation in defense contracting. Specifically, the DoD must report on how it implements category management practices (using data tools and strategic planning) to boost opportunities for small businesses, including tracking metrics, sharing success stories, and identifying ways to transition contracts from non-small business to small business set-asides. The reports will cover tools used in procurement decisions, progress toward small business participation goals, and recommendations for improvement. The bill directly affects the DoD’s acquisition and small business offices, as well as congressional committees overseeing defense and small business issues. It does not change contracting rules but mandates transparency in how the DoD pursues small business contracting goals.