This week in GovCon was defined by both opportunity and uncertainty.
The GSA unveiled USAi, giving agencies a new platform to test AI models, while the SBA again awarded the government an overall “A” for small business contracting. Contractors are also being invited to weigh in on the SPEED Act, and lawmakers are considering changes to how the DoD evaluates performance. On the technology front, FedRAMP authorizations have already doubled 2024’s total, and the FAR Council issued updates across six acquisition sections, signaling continued emphasis on modernization and compliance. At the same time, DHS contract reviews created uncertainty and job losses, highlighting the risks contractors face even amid progress.
1. GSA introduces USAi for federal AI experimentation
GSA announced USAi, a new platform enabling agencies to test and deploy AI models from major providers like Google, Meta, and Anthropic. This represents a significant step in AI integration into federal operations. 
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2. SBA reaffirms small business participation with an “A” grade
The SBA once again awarded the government an overall “A” for small business procurement in FY24, signaling agencies’ sustained commitment to small business engagement. Read more
3. Contractor input opens for SPEED Act
Contractors are now invited to provide feedback on the SPEED Act, legislation aimed at accelerating acquisition cycles and cutting through red tape. Read more
4. DoD contractor evaluations face reform
The House and Senate are weighing changes to how DoD evaluates contractors, potentially reshaping the role of past performance in procurement decisions. Read more
5. FedRAMP approvals surge
GSA confirmed that FedRAMP authorizations in 2025 have already more than doubled compared to 2024, reflecting agencies’ growing reliance on secure cloud solutions. Read more
6. FAR Council releases new regulatory updates
The FAR Council issued updates across six acquisition regulation sections, reinforcing the need for contractors to stay vigilant on compliance. Read more
7. DHS contract reviews spark uncertainty
Ongoing reviews at DHS are causing significant delays and even layoffs for some contractors, raising concerns about predictability in the agency’s acquisition pipeline. Read more