WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – The Air Force Materiel Command Small Business Office achieved a record-breaking year in 2025, surpassing previous financial milestones while providing a wealth of opportunities for small businesses across the nation.
“Our mission is to promote and optimize small business solutions,” said Luke Schultz, acting director, AFMC Small Business Office. “Just like how AFMC trains and equips the Air Force, we do the same for small businesses that partner with AFMC and its centers.”
With more than $11 billion obligated in small business contracts, the AFMC Small Business Office exceeded its goals, reflecting the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration within the diverse defense industrial base.
Various business obligations, such as those to Small Disadvantaged Businesses, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses, Woman-Owned Small Businesses, and Historically Underutilized Business Zones promoted access to contracting opportunities, encouraging economic empowerment, innovation and competition.
“The AFMC Small Business Office serves as the front door for small businesses wanting to do business with the Air Force,” said Schultz. “We guide them through everything from registration to identifying contracting opportunities, and we actively work with public affairs to get the word out on industry days and outreach events where businesses can network and connect with the right people.”
The year saw an impressive surge in the success of Small Business Innovation Research Phase III contracts, with nearly $2.9 billion directed toward transitioning innovative technologies to warfighters.
One successful example of these SBIR Phase III contracts is the Tactical Exploitation of National Capabilities Talon Revolution project. The TENCAP Talon project ensures that warfighters and commanders can tap into national-level intelligence systems quickly and seamlessly, allowing them to make better decisions, stay ahead of the enemy, and adapt to changing conditions on the battlefield.
“We really try to make sure that the small business industrial base knows that we're out here and we're here to help them connect with teams and resources that are available,” said Schultz.
In 2025, the AFMC Small Business team hosted150 outreach events, connecting with more than 3,000 attendees. From workshops and conferences to personalized one-on-one meetings, this was a 22% jump from the previous year—showing a commitment to building relationships and driving engagement. These events played a key role in fostering collaboration, sharing valuable insights, and empowering small businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving defense landscape.
At the heart of the AFMC Small Business Office’s success is a mission dedicated to optimizing small business solutions. The office’s proactive approach includes key programs such as the Air Force Mentor-Protégé program, outreach events, and workshops on federal contracting registration to help small businesses navigate the complexities of working with the government; while ensuring they have the tools necessary to succeed.
“It's been a team effort,” said Schultz. “We've been able to strategically leverage resources and outreach opportunities to make businesses aware of opportunities within.”
Despite facing challenges, including a reduction in workforce, the AFMC Small Business Office strategically leveraged resources across the command, working closely with program teams to meet and exceed goals. Through streamlined processes and the continued push to integrate small businesses into acquisition strategies, the team reached new heights, ensuring small businesses had every opportunity to thrive.
Looking ahead, the AFMC Small Business Office remains committed to expanding opportunities for small businesses and strengthening its relationships with industry partners.
For more information on the AFMC Small Business Office, visit https://www.afmc.af.mil/About-Us/Small-Business/.