by David Wright

On September 24, 2026, a Federal Register notice announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration extended the public comment period on its proposed small-business size standards. Comments are now due November 20, 2026.

The underlying proposal, published August 20, would establish new size standards for 338 industry groups and industries. SBA says the changes are intended to better reflect current markets and simplify how firms are classified.

Why size standards matter

SBA size standards help determine whether a business qualifies as “small” for certain federal contracting and assistance programs. Depending on the industry, a standard may be based on annual receipts, number of employees, or another measure.

What the proposal does not do today

The proposal is not a final rule. Existing standards remain in effect unless and until SBA completes rulemaking and a final rule becomes effective. Businesses should avoid restructuring or representing eligibility based solely on a proposed threshold.

Four actions to take before November 20

First, verify the NAICS code or codes that actually describe the work you perform. Second, identify the current SBA size standard attached to the relevant classification. Third, review the proposed standard and document how a change could affect your company, competitors, or customers. Fourth, if the proposal creates a material issue, consider submitting a specific, evidence-based comment through the official rulemaking process.

Use the extension as a business-readiness exercise

Even companies that do not submit a comment can use the extension to clean up capability statements, NAICS listings, SAM.gov information where applicable, revenue/employee calculations, certification records, and federal-market positioning.

Sources

• Federal Register: Small Business Size Standards – Extension of Comment Periods
• SBA proposal announcement

Next step: ASBI can help Atlanta-area entrepreneurs organize capability information, clarify market positioning, strengthen business documents, and prepare for government-contracting or growth opportunities. Request an appointment.

Educational business information only. Verify current rules and eligibility directly with SBA and other relevant agencies before making business or financial decisions.