A master subcontracting plan is a document that outlines the steps a prime contractor will take to ensure that small businesses have an equal opportunity to compete for subcontracting opportunities on federal contracts. This plan is required by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) for prime contractors who receive contracts for more than $700,000 ($1.5 million for construction contracts) and have subcontracting possibilities.

The goal of a master subcontracting plan is to promote the small business participation in federal contracting, which, in turn, helps to create jobs and strengthen the economy. The plan should include specific and measurable goals for subcontracting with small businesses, and the prime contractor should monitor its progress towards these goals.

The master subcontracting plan should also outline the steps that the prime contractor will take to identify, solicit, and select small businesses for subcontracting opportunities. This may include outreach to local small business associations, posting subcontracting opportunities on websites and in publications that reach small businesses, and providing training and technical assistance to small businesses to help them become subcontractors.

Once the prime contractor has identified potential small business subcontractors, the next step is to ensure that these businesses are qualified to perform the work. This may involve reviewing the small business`s past performance on similar projects, verifying that the business is registered with the System for Award Management (SAM), and confirming that the business has the necessary certifications and licenses to perform the work.

Finally, the master subcontracting plan should include reporting requirements to ensure that the prime contractor is meeting its goals for subcontracting with small businesses. The prime contractor must submit semi-annual reports to the contracting officer, which detail the progress made towards the goals outlined in the master subcontracting plan.

In conclusion, a master subcontracting plan is an essential document for prime contractors seeking federal contracts. It ensures that small businesses have an equal opportunity to compete for subcontracting opportunities and helps to promote small business participation in federal contracting. By outlining specific and measurable goals and taking steps to identify and select qualified small business subcontractors, prime contractors can contribute to the growth and strength of the small business community.