Small Business Glossary

This glossary has originally been developed by the Small Business Administration. However, it is generally useful for small businesses, since it contains definitions of many useful terms that are used in the small business world.

ACCOUNTING

The recording, classifying, summarizing and interpreting in a significant manner and in terms of money, transactions and events of a financial character.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Trade accounts of businesses representing obligations to pay for goods and services received

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Trade accounts of businesses representing moneys due for goods sold or services rendered evidenced by notes, statements, invoices or other written evidence of a present obligation.

ACQUISITION

The acquiring of supplies or services by the federal government with appropriated funds through purchase or lease.

AFFILIATES

Business concerns, organizations, or individuals that control each other or that are controlled by a third party. Control may include shared management or ownership; common use of facilities, equipment, and employees; or family interest. The calculation of a firm's size includes the employees or receipts of all affiliates. Affiliation with another business concern is based on the power to control, whether exercised or not. Such factors as common ownership, common management and identity of interest (often found in members of the same family), among others, are indicators of affiliation. Power to control exists when a party or parties have 50 percent or more ownership. It may also exist with considerably less than 50 percent ownership by contractual arrangement or when one or more parties own a large share compared to other parties. The affiliated business concerns need not be in the same line of business.

ASSETS

The entire property of a person, association, corporation, or estate applicable or subject to the payment of debts.

ASSUMPTIONS

The act of assuming/undertaking another's debts or obligations.

AUCTION

A public sale of goods to the highest bidder.

AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING (ADP)

1. Data processing largely performed by automatic means. 2. Pertaining to data processing equipment such as electrical accounting machines and electronic data processing equipment. 3. The discipline which deals with methods and techniques of automatic data processing.

ANNUAL RECEIPTS

Receipts are averaged over a firm's latest 3 completed fiscal years to determine its average annual receipts. "Receipts" means the firm's gross or total income, plus cost of goods sold, as defined by or reported on the firm's Federal Income Tax return. The term does not include, however, net capital gains or losses, nor taxes collected for and remitted to a taxing authority if included in gross or total income. The firm may not deduct income taxes, property taxes, cost of materials or funds paid to subcontractors. Travel, real estate and advertising agents, providers of conference management services, freight forwarders and customs brokers may deduct amounts they collect on behalf of another. If a firm has not been in business for 3 years, the average weekly receipts for the number of weeks the firm has been in business is multiplied by 52 to determine its average annual receipts.

ACT - Small Business Act

Also see http://www.sba.gov/library/lawroom.html

ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) gives federal civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, State and local government services, and telecommunications.

ANSWER DESK

SBA maintains an Answer Desk staffed with multi-lingual personnel. You may either call them free or send an e-mail.

ADVOCACY

Advocacy is an SBA office created to be the voice for small business in the federal government and the source for small business statistics.

ADVOCACY - Research and Statistics

Research on small business economics and trends is conducted by SBA's Office of Advocacy. Economic statistics may be found by choosing "More..."

ANCILLARY BOND

A type of surety bond where the surety company guarantees other factors which are incidental and essential to the performance of a contract.

APPRAISED VALUE

The value placed on an item, product or business by an appraiser, recognized for experience in a particular field.

AMORTIZATION

Gradual reduction of term debt by periodic payment sufficient to pay current interest and to eliminate the principal at maturity.

ACID RATIO

Current assets less inventories divided by current liabilities. Also known as "Quick Ratio."

BUSINESS BIRTH

Formation of a new establishment or enterprise.

BUSINESS DEATH

Voluntary or involuntary closure of a firm or establishment.

BUSINESS FAILURE

The closure of a business causing a loss to at least one creditor.

BIC - Business Information Center

One of more than 80 specialized U.S. Small Business Administration units which offer the latest in high-technology hardware, software and telecommunications to assist small business PLUS one-on-one counseling through SCORE and/or Small Business Development Center (SBDC) staff. Each BIC offers electronic bulleting boards, computer data bases, on-line information exchange, periodicals and brochures, counseling, video tapes, reference materials, texts, start-up guides, application software, computer tutorials and interactive media.

BALANCE SHEET

Financial statement listing a company's assets, liabilities, and equity on a specific date.

BANKRUPTCY

A condition in which a business cannot meet its debt obligations and petitions a federal district court for either reorganization of its debts or liquidation of its assets. In the action the property of a debtor is taken over by a receiver or trustee in bankruptcy for the benefit of the creditors. This action is conducted as prescribed by the National Bankruptcy Act, and may be voluntary or involuntary.

BEST AND FINAL OFFER

For negotiated procurements, a contractor's final offer following the conclusion of discussions.

BREAK-EVEN POINT

The break-even point in any business is that point at which the volume of sales or revenues exactly equals total expenses -- the point at which there is neither a profit nor loss -- under varying levels of activity. The break-even point tells the manager what level of output or activity is required before the firm can make a profit; reflects the relationship between costs, volume and profits.

BUSINESS DISSOLUTION

For enumeration purposes, the absence from any current record of a business that was present in a prior time period.

BUSINESS INFORMATION CENTER (BIC)

One of more than 80 specialized U.S. Small Business Administration units which offer the latest in high-technology hardware, software and telecommunications to assist small business PLUS one-on-one counseling with seasoned business veterans from SCORE and/or staff from a Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Each BIC offers electronic bulletin boards, computer data bases, on-line information exchange, periodicals and brochures, counseling, video tapes, reference materials, texts, start-up guides, application software, computer tutorials and interactive media.

BUSINESS PLAN

A comprehensive planning document which clearly describes the business developmental objective of an existing or proposed business applying for assistance in SBA's 8(a) or lending Programs. The plan outlines what and how and from where the resources needed to accomplish the objective will be obtained and utilized.

BUSINESS START

For enumeration purposes, a business with a name or similar designation that did not exist in a prior time period.

BID BOND

A type of surety bond wherein the surety company guarantees the bidder will enter into a contract and furnish the required payment and performance bonds.

BUSINESS CONCERN

A business concern eligible for assistance as a small business is a business entity organized for profit, with a place of business located in the United States, and which operates primarily within the United States or makes a significant contribution to the US economy through payment of taxes or use of American products, materials, or labor.

BUNDLING REPORT

The purpose of this page is to provide a system to alert SBA's Office of Government Contracting of contract bundling practices on the part of federal agencies that preclude a small business from successfully competing for a contract.

BUSINESS CARD(S)

1. A card identifying a business and an individual associated with that business. 2. An area of the SBA website for displaying business cards. NOTICE: Inclusion in SBA ONLINE BUSINESS CARDS does not constitute or imply an endorsement of any opinions, products and/or services of the listed company by SBA ONLINE or the U.S. Small Business Administration. Moreover, SBA Online and the U.S. Small Business Administration assume no liability for the accuracy of data or for the results of any contact with any company so listed. Your entered card will automatically go into our database; it will be reviewed to make sure that the written content does not offend our visitors and the public. SBA reserves the right to make minor edits to the content to conserve space.

BusinessLINC

Beginning June 5, 1998, the BusinessLINC initiative began encouraging more private sector business-to-business linkages that enhance the economic vitality and competitive capacity of small businesses, particularly those located in economically distressed urban and rural areas. The name conveys the full range of business-to-business assistance programs. The LINC acronym stands for "Learning, Information, Networking, Collaboration." This is a joint effort between the Department of the Treasury and the SBA.

BANKING STUDIES - LENDING STUDIES

The Office of Advocacy annually analyzes call report data collected by the Federal Reserve on the lending activity of about 8,500 individual reporting commercial banks. Banks are ranked based on their small business lending on a state-by-state basis.

BOOK VALUE

The value of an item or property at a specific time after deducting depreciation from original cost.

BAD DEBTS

Funds owing to a business which are determined to be uncollectible.

COLLATERAL DOCUMENT

A legal document covering the item(s) pledged as collateral on a loan, i.e., note, mortgages, assignment, etc.

CURRENT RATIO

The ratio of current assets to liabilities. Also called "quick ratio."

CAAC

See Civilian Agency Acquisition Council.

CIVILIAN AGENCY ACQUISITION COUNCIL (CAAC)

Civilian Agency Acquisition Council (CAAC).

COLLATERAL

Something of value--securities, evidence of deposit or other property--pledged to support the repayment of an obligation. Also one of the Five "Cs" used in determining a loan applicant's credit worthiness.

CAIP - Community Adjustment and Investment Program

The United States Community Adjustment and Investment Program was created to help communities that suffered job losses due to changing trade patterns with Mexico and Canada following the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The CAIP promotes economic implementation of the adjustment by increasing the availability and flow of credit and encourages business development and expansion in impacted areas. Through the CAIP, credit is available to businesses in eligible communities to create new, sustainable jobs or to preserve existing jobs.

CANCELED LOAN

The annulment or recission of an approved loan prior to disbursement.

CAPITAL

1. Assets less liabilities, representing the ownership interest in a business; 2. A stock of accumulated goods, especially at a specified time and in contrast to income received during a specified time period; 3. Accumulated goods devoted to the production of goods; 4. Accumulated possessions calculated to bring income.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

Business spending on additional plant equipment.

CAPITALIZED PROPERTY

Personal property of the business which has an average dollar value of $300.00 or more and a life expectancy of one year or more. Capitalized property shall be depreciated annually over the expected useful life to the agency.

CAPLINES LOAN PROGRAM

CAPLines is the umbrella program under which the SBA helps small businesses meet their short-term and cyclical working-capital needs.

CASH DISCOUNT

An incentive offered by the seller to encourage the buyer to pay within a stipulated time. For example, if the terms are 2/10/N 30, the buyer may deduct 2 percent from the amount of the invoice (if paid within 10 days) otherwise, the full amount is due in 30 days.

CASH FLOW STATEMENT

An accounting presentation showing how much of the cash generated by the business remains after both expenses (including interest) and principal repayment on financing are paid. A projected cash flow statement indicates whether the business will have cash to pay its expenses, loans, and make a profit. Cash flows can be calculated for any given period of time, normally done on a monthly basis. Also, one of the Five "Cs" evaluated in determining a loan applicant's credit-worthiness

CBD - Commerce Business Daily

The Commerce Business Daily lists notices of proposed government procurement actions, contract awards, sales of government property, and other procurement information. All federal procurement offices are required to announce, in the CDB, proposed procurement actions over $25,000 and contract awards over $25,000 that are likely to result in the award of any subcontracts. Prime contractors are also encouraged to publish subcontracting opportunities in the CBD.

CDC - Certified Development Company

The 504 Certified Development Company (CDC) Program provides growing businesses with long-term, fixed-rate financing for major fixed assets, such as land and buildings. A Certified Development Company is a nonprofit corporation set up to contribute to the economic development of its community. CDCs work with the SBA and private-sector lenders to provide financing to small businesses. There are about 270 CDCs nationwide. Each CDC covers a specific geographic area.

CALENDAR

SBA maintains calendars of events for all SBA Offices - you may obtain counseling, training, and attend seminars free or at a nominal cost.

CERTIFIED DEVELOPMENT COMPANY - CDC

A Certified Development Company is a nonprofit corporation set up to contribute to the economic development of its community. CDCs work with the SBA and private-sector lenders to provide financing to small businesses. There are about 270 CDCs nationwide. Each CDC covers a specific geographic area

CERTIFIED LENDER PROGRAM - CLP

The most active and expert lenders qualify for the SBA's streamlined lending programs. Under these programs, lenders are delegated partial or full authority to approve loans, which results in faster service from SBA. Certified lenders are those who have been heavily involved in regular SBA loan-guaranty processing and have met certain other criteria. They receive a partial delegation of authority and are given a three-day turnaround by the SBA on their applications (they may also use regular SBA loan processing). Certified lenders account for nearly a third of all SBA business loan guaranties.

CHARGED OFF LOAN

An uncollectible loan for which the principal and accrued interest were removed from the receivable accounts.

CHARGE-OFF

An accounting transaction removing an uncollectible balance from the active receivable accounts.

CLOSED LOAN

Any loan for which funds have been disbursed, and all required documentation has been executed, received and reviewed. For statistical purposes, first or total disbursement is counted as a closed loan.

CLOSING

Actions and procedures required to effect the documentation and disbursement of loan funds after the application has been approved, and the execution of all required documentation and its filing and recordation where required.

CLP - Certified Lender Program

COMMERCE BUSINESS DAILY (CBD)

CONTRACT

A mutually binding legal relationship obligating the seller to furnish supplies or services (including construction) and the buyer to pay for them.

COMMUNITY ADJUSTMENT AND INVESTMENT PROGRAM (CAIP)

COMPROMISE

The settlement of a claim resulting from a defaulted loan for less than the full amount due. Compromise settlement is a procedure available for use only in instances where the government cannot collect the full amount due within a reasonable time, by enforced collection proceedings or where the cost of such proceedings would not justify such effort.

COMMUNITY EXPRESS

CommunityExpress is a pilot SBA loan program that was developed in collaboration with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) and its member organizations. Under the pilot, which is available to selected lenders, an SBAExpress like program will be offered to pre-designated geographic areas serving mostly New Markets small businesses. The program will also include technical and management assistance, which is designed to help increase the loan applicant's chances of success.

CONSORTIUM

A coalition of organizations, such as banks and corporations, set up to fund ventures requiring large capital resources.

CONTINGENT LIABILITY

A potential obligation that may be incurred dependent upon the occurrence of a future event. Two examples are: (1) the liability of an endorser or guarantor of a note if the primary borrower fails to pay as agreed and (2) the liability that would be incurred if a pending lawsuit is resolved in the other party's favor.

CONTRACTING

Purchasing, renting, leasing, or otherwise obtaining supplies or services from nonfederal sources. Contracting includes the description of supplies and services required, the selection and solicitation of sources, the preparation and award of contracts, and all phases of contract administration. It does not include grants or cooperative agreements.

CONTRACTING OFFICER

A person with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts and make related determinations and findings.

CONTRACTOR TEAM ARRANGEMENT

An arrangement in which (a) two or more companies form a partnership or joint venture to act as potential prime contractor; or (b) an agreement by a potential prime contractor with one or more other companies to have them act as its subcontractors under a specified government contract or acquisition program.

CORPORATION

A group of persons granted a state charter legally recognizing them as a separate entity having its own rights, privileges, and liabilities distinct from those of its members. The process of incorporating should be completed with the state's secretary of state or state corporate counsel and usually requires the services of an attorney.

COSTS

Money obligated for goods and services received during a given period of time, regardless of when ordered or whether paid for.

CREDIT RATING

A grade assigned to a business concern to denote the net worth and credit standing to which the concern is entitled in the opinion of the rating agency as a result of its investigation.

CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY - COC

A certificate issued by the Small Business Administration (SBA) stating that the holder is "responsible" (in terms of capability, competency, capacity, credit, integrity, perseverance, and tenacity) for the purpose of receiving and performing a specific government contract.

CERTIFIED 8(a) FIRM

A firm owned and operated by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and eligible to receive federal contracts under the Small Business Administration's 8(a) Business Development Program.

CUSTOMER TARGETING

Identifying and marketing to those groups of customers most likely to buy a particular product or service, e.g., promoting boat products to boat owners.

CAPACITY TO REPAY

The determination made by a lender on whether a borrower can repay a loan after examining financial statements, financial ratios and operating data.

CAWBO - Contract Assistance for Women Business Owners

The Office of Federal Contract Assistance for Women Business Owners (CAWBO) was established October 1, 2000, in the Office of Government Contracting at the U.S. Small Business Administration. The purpose of the office is to increase federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small business (WOSB) and to increase the number of WOSB that successfully compete in the federal marketplace.

COC - Certificate of Competency

The Certificate of Competency (COC) program allows a small business to appeal a contracting officer's determination that it is unable to fulfill the requirements of a specific government contract on which it is the apparent low bidder. When the small business applies for a COC, SBA industrial and financial specialists conduct a detailed review of the firm's capabilities to perform on the contract. If the business demonstrates the ability to perform, the SBA issues a COC to the contracting officer requiring the award of that specific contract to the small business.

CMRs - Commercial Market Reprsentatives

SBA's Commercial Market Representatives (CMR's), located in area offices, assist small businesses in obtaining subcontracts by marketing small businesses and matching them with large prime contractors.

COPYRIGHT

The legal right granted to authors, composers, artists and publishers to protect their thoughts and ideas for exclusive publication, reproduction, sale and distribution of their works. Some of the material on SBA's web site is copyrighted and it will be so stated in the document. If it is not copyrighted we prefer that you link to our information rather than taking it and posting it on your site. Our information changes hourly and daily.

CERTIFICATION(s) or QUALIFICATION(s) REQUIREMEMTS(s)

"Certification" as a small business, as a socially and economically disadvantaged small business, as a woman-owned or veteran-owned business is required to be eligible for some SBA programs. Information on obtaining these and other certifications is available at "More..."

CASH FLOW

The movement of money into and out of your business.

CENTRAL CONTRACT REGISTRATION - CCR

A data base of all businesses contracting or seeking contracts with the federal government. It is maintained by the U.S. Department of Defense.

COVENANT

A prescription for action in a loan document.

CCR - Central Contract Registration

A data base of all businesses contracting or seeking contracts with the federal government. It is maintained by the U.S. Department of Defense.

CURRENT ASSETS

Money, inventory and equipment that will be used up in the short term -- usually within one year.

CONTRACT ASSISTANCE FOR WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS - CAWBO

The Office of Federal Contract Assistance for Women Business Owners (CAWBO) was established October 1, 2000, in the Office of Government Contracting at the U.S. Small Business Administration. The purpose of the office is to increase federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small business (WOSB) and to increase the number of WOSBs that successfully compete in the federal marketplace.

CHARACTER

The degree to which a potential borrower feels a moral obligation to repay debts as evidenced by the borower's credit and payment history. One of the "Five Cs" used in a lending officer's determination of a particular loan applicant's credit-worthiness.

CAPITALIZATION

The basic resources of a company including the owner's equity, retained earnings and fixed assets. One of the "Five C's" of Credit

CONDITIONS

External factors such as government regulation, competition, industry trends, national economic trends, that can affect the success of a business. One of the "Five Cs" of credit.

CREDIT

Time allowed for the payment of goods or services sold on trust as well as confidence in the buyer's ability and intention to fulfill their financial obligations.

COVENANT NOT TO COMPETE

The agreement by the seller of a business, not to enter into competition with the buyer of the business within a specific area for a specific period of time.

CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT

Short-term instruments issued by commercial banks.

CREDIT POLICY

Actions taken by a business to grant, monitor and collect the cash for outstanding accounts receivable.

CONTINGENCY FUND

Cash held for emergencies or unexpected outflows of funds. Also known as "Precautionary Balances."

CARRYING COSTS

Inventory costs associated with capital, storage, handling expenses, insurance, taxes and obsolescence.

CASH CONVERSION CYCLE

The length of time between the payment of payables and the collection of receivables.

COLLECTION POLICY

Actions a business takes to collect slow-paying accounts.

COMMERCIAL PAPER

Unsecured promissory notes of large corporations.

CREDIT PERIOD

Length of time allowed before the credit buyer must pay for credit purchases.

DEBT TO TOTAL ASSETS RATIO

Total debt divided by total assets.

DEFERRED LOAN

Loans whose principal and or interest installments are postponed for a specified period of time.

DARC - Defense Acquisition Regulatory Council

See DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATORY COUNCIL

DATA ELEMENT

The basic unit of identifiable and definable information. A data element occupies the space provided by fields in a record or blocks on a form. It has an identifying name and value or values for expressing a specific fact. For example, a data element named "Color of Eyes" could have recorded values of "Blue (a name)," "Bl (an abbreviation)," "06 (a code)." similarly, a data element named "Age of Employee" could have a recorded value of "28" (a numeric value).

DEBENTURE

Debt instrument evidencing the holder's right to receive interest and principal installments from the named obligor. Applies to all forms of unsecured, long-term debt evidenced by a certificate of debt.

DEBT CAPITAL

Business financing that normally requires periodic interest payments and repayment of the principal within a specified time.

DEBT FINANCING

The provision of long term loans to small business concerns in exchange for debt securities or a note.

DEED OF TRUST

A document under seal which, when delivered, transfers a present interest in property. May be held as collateral.

DEFAULTS

The nonpayment of principal and/or interest on the due date as provided by the terms and conditions of the note.

DEFENSE CONTRACTOR

Any person who enters into a contract with the United States for the production of material or for the performance of services for the national defense.

DELTA

See Defense Loan and Technical Assistance Program.

DEFENSE LOAN AND TECNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (DELTA)

A joint effort of the United States Small Business Administration and the Department of Defense to provide financial and technical assistance to defense-dependent small businesses adversely affected by defense reductions.

DISBURSEMENT

The actual payout to borrower of loan funds, in whole or part. It may be concurrent with the closing, or follow it.

DISBURSING OFFICER

An employee authorized to pay out cash or issue checks in settlement of vouchers approved by a certifying officer.

DIVESTITURE

Change of ownership and/or control of a business from a majority (non-disadvantaged) to disadvantaged persons.

DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS)

D&B's Data Universal Numbering System, the D&B D-U-N-S Number, has become the standard for keeping track of the world's businesses. The D&B D-U-N-S Number is D&B's distinctive nine-digit identification sequence, which identifies information products and services originating exclusively through D&B. The D&B D-U-N-S Number is an internationally recognized common company identifier in EDI and global electronic commerce transactions. The world's most influential standards-setting organizations, more than 50 global, industry and trade associations, and the U.S. Federal Government recognize, recommend and/or require the D&B D-U-N-S Number.

DUNS - Data Universal Numbering System

Data Universal Numbering System: the D&B D-U-N-S Number, has become the standard for keeping track of the world's businesses. The D&B D-U-N-S Number is D&B's distinctive nine-digit identification sequence, which identifies information products and services originating exclusively through D&B. The D&B D-U-N-S Number is an internationally recognized common company identifier in EDI and global electronic commerce transactions. The world's most influential standards-setting organizations, more than 50 global, industry and trade associations, and the U.S. Federal Government recognize, recommend and/or require the D&B D-U-N-S Number.

DEFENSE ACQUISITION REGULATORY COUNCIL (DARC)

A group composed of representatives from each Military department, the Defense Logistics Agency, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and that is in charge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) on a joint basis with the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council (CAAC).

DELTA LOAN

See Defense Loan and Technical Assistance Program.

DOT - SBA/DOT Certification Reciprocity for Disadvantaged Businesses

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) signed a memorandum of understanding that "reciprocally" streamlines the certification process for current and future 8(a) Business Development, Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program participants on Tuesday, November 23, 1999. In effect, this process will allow each agency to recognize the program certification of the other without duplicating paperwork. By streamlining certain procedures and requirements, it will reduce the burden on applicants. The agreement creates the start of a uniform application process for small disadvantaged business certification, reinventing the way the government does business with SDBs.

DISCLAIMER

A statement regarding the responsibility and liability for website content and certain presenters, contractors, speakeres, etc. Choosing "More..." at the end of this definition will lead you to SBA's Disclaimer Of Endorsement and Liability regarding the material in the upcoming viewing screens.

DISASTER AREA LOCATIONS

Who to contact in the event of a declared Disaster regarding small business.

DISASTER ASSISTANCE

The purpose of the SBA's Disaster Loan Program is to offer financial assistance to those who are trying to rebuild their homes and businesses in the aftermath of a disaster. By offering low-interest loans, the SBA is committed to long-term recovery efforts. The agency will do everything possible to meet the needs of those otherwise unable to put their lives back together.

DISASTER

A disaster is a natural or human-caused occurrence causing vast destruction and distress. SBA's Disaster Loan Program offers financial assistance to those who are trying to rebuild their homes and businesses in the aftermath of a disaster. By offering low-interest loans, the SBA is committed to long-term recovery efforts. The agency does everything possible to meet the needs of those otherwise unable to put their lives back together.

DISABLED

The "disabled" are individuals whose physical or mental abilities prevent them from fully participating in normal activities and/or functions of living. The intended beneficiaries of The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA gives federal civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, State and local government services, and telecommunications.

DEPRECIATION SCHEDULE

An accounting procedure for determining the amount of value left in a piece of equipment.

DISCOUNT INTEREST RATE

One in which the amount of interest is deducted from the face value of the loan with the borrower receiving the remainder.

ENTREPRENEUR

One who assumes the financial risk of the initiation, operation and management of a given business or undertaking.

EARNING POWER

The demonstrated ability of a business to earn a profit, over time, while following good accounting practices. When a business shows a reasonable profit on invested capital after fully maintaining the business property, appropriately compensating its owner and employees, servicing its obligations, and fully recognizing its costs, the business may be said to have demonstrated earning power. Demonstrated earning power is the foremost test of the business risk in pressing upon an application for a loan.

EASEMENT

A right or privilege that a person may have on another's land, as the right of a way or ingress or egress.

EFTPS

See Electronic Federal Tax Payment System.

ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE

Transmission of information between computers using highly standardized electronic versions of common business documents.

ELECTRONIC FEDERAL TAX PAYMENT SYSTEM (EFTPS)

Electronic Federal Tax Payment System, provides an electronic system for paying federal taxes. The IRS replaced the current system of processing taxes in compliance with North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) mandates, and now expedite the availability of funds and investment decision making information to the U.S. Treasury while providing flexible payment options to the business taxpayer

EMERGING SMALL BUSINESS

A small business concern whose size is no greater than 50 percent of the numerical size standard applicable to the Standard Industrial Classification code assigned to a contracting opportunity.

ENTERPRISE

Aggregation of all establishments owned by a parent company. An enterprise can consist of a single, independent establishment or it can include subsidiaries or other branch establishments under the same ownership and control.

EQUITY

An accounting term used to describe the net investment of owners or stockholders in a business. Under the accounting equation, equity also represents the result of assets less liabilities.

EQUITY FINANCING

The provision of funds for capital or operating expenses in exchange for capital stock, stock purchase warrants and options in the business financed, without any guaranteed return, but with the opportunity to share in the company's profits. Equity financing includes long-term subordinated securities containing stock options and/or warrants. Utilized in SBIC financing activities.

EQUITY PARTNERSHIP

A limited partnership arrangement for providing start-up and seed capital to businesses.

ESCROW ACCOUNTS

Funds placed in trust with a third party, by a borrower for a specific purpose and to be delivered to the borrower only upon the fulfillment of certain conditions.

ESTABLISHMENT

A single-location business unit, which may be independent--called a single-establishment enterprise--or owned by a parent enterprise.

EXPORT ASSISTANCE CENTER - USEAC

A USEAC is a one-stop center conducted by the SBA and the Department of Commerce to provide small and medium sized businesses with export information. For additional information see "More..."

EXPORT WORKING CAPITAL

The Export Working Capital (EWCP) Program was designed to provide short-term working capital to exporters. The EWCP is a combined effort of the SBA and the Export-Import Bank. The two agencies have joined their working capital programs to offer a unified approach to the government's support of export financing. The EWCP uses a one-page application form and streamlined documentation with turnaround usually 10 days or less. A letter of prequalification is also available from the SBA.

EWCP

EMPLOYEES

The number of employees of a firm is its average number of persons employed for each pay period over the firm's latest 12 months. Any person on the payroll must be included as one employee regardless of hours worked or temporary status. The number of employees of a firm in business under 12 months is based on the average for each pay period it has been in business.

EDI

Electronic Data Interchange: Transmission of information between computers using highly standardized electronic versions of common business documents.

EMPLOYEE - Search for SBA Employee

Names, phone, etc.

E-BUSINESS INSTITUTE - SBA

Knowledge is the most important asset small businesses will compete with in the 21st century. The E-Business Institute is a digital strategy for reaching new markets and training small business clients in a changing, global, 24/7 environment.

EPA

Environmental Protection Agency with laws and regulations as a major tool in protecting the environment. Find out about:

EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION

SBA - An Equal Opportunity Employer

EEOC - Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Small Business Information - The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces the federal laws that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of an individual's race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability.

FOIA Online Library - FOIA Library

Online compendium of documents that will save you the time and effort of requesting it/them through channels.

FINANCING

New funds provided to a business, by either loans or purchase of debt securities or capital stock.

FAIR AND REASONABLE PRICE

A price that is fair to both parties, considering the agreed-upon conditions, promised quality, and timeliness of contract performance. "Fair and reasonable" price is subject to statutory and regulatory limitations.

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR)

The body of regulations which is the primary source of authority governing the government procurement process. The FAR, which is published as Chapter 1 of Title 48 of the Code of Federal Regulations, is prepared, issued, and maintained under the joint auspices of the Secretary of Defense, the Administrator of General Services Administration, and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Actual responsibility for maintenance and revision of the FAR is vested jointly in the Defense Acquisition Regulatory Council (DARC) and the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council (CAAC).

FINANCIAL REPORTS

Reports commonly required from applicants request for financial assistance, e.g.: Balance Sheet -A report of the status of a firm's assets, liabilities and owner's equity at a given time.

FIXED COSTS

Costs of doing business such as rent, utilities, depreciation, taxes, etc., that remain generally the same regardless of the amount of sales of goods or services.

FLOW CHART

A graphical representation for the definition, analysis, or solution of a problem, in which symbols are used to represent operations, data, flow, equipment, etc.

FOIA

Freedom of Informaton Act. The FOIA, enacted in 1966, generally provides that any person has a right of access to federal agency records. This right of access is enforceable in court except for those records that are protected from disclosure by the nine exemptions to the FOIA, which are discussed in the text.

FORECLOSURE

The act by the mortgagee or trustee upon default, in the payment of interest or principal of a mortgage of enforcing payment of the debt by selling the underlying security.

FRANCHISING

A continuing relationship in which the franchisor provides a licensed privilege to the franchisee to do business, and offers assistance in organizing, training, merchandising, marketing and managing in return for a consideration. Franchising is a form of business by which the owner (franchisor) of a product, service or method obtains distribution through affiliated dealers(franchisees). The product, method or service being marketed is usually identified by the franchisor's brand name, and the holder of the privilege (franchisee) is often given exclusive access to a defined geographical area.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT - FOIA

The FOIA, enacted in 1966, generally provides that any person has a right of access to federal agency records. This right of access is enforceable in court except for those records that are protected from disclosure by the nine exemptions to the FOIA, which are discussed in the text.

FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

With respect to a contract action, "full and open" competition means that all responsible sources are permitted to compete.

FirstGov

FirstGov is a public-private partnership, led by a cross-agency board and administered by the Office of FirstGov in the General Services Administration's Office of Governmentwide Policy.

FORMS - SBA and forms related to Small Business

Several application forms are maintained on our site - some are fillable and printable online.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAR -- Federal Acquisition Regulation

Commonly referred to as the "FAR," the Federal Acquisition Regulations System was established for the codification and publication of uniform policies and procedures for acquisition of goods and services by all executive agencies. Choosing More... will take you to the FAR site.

FEEDBACK

Your comments on the quality of the material you receive at this website. Your feedback is important to us and we also ask you to rate our site.

FRANCHISE REGISTRY

SBA's Franchise Registry is a good example of helping small businesses owners through cooperation between government and industry. The dedicated efforts of SBA employees, franchisees, franchisors, and lenders have led to streamlined eligibility guidelines and operating procedures that will reduce costs and processing time and help SBA serve its customers better.

FORMS - IRS

Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Forms

FINANCIAL FORECAST

Projection of revenues and expenses for the next one to five years.

FINANCIAL PLAN

An outline for how to use the money (capital) you have and how to raise the money you will need.

FINANCIAL RATIOS

Measures of capital, including debt to asset, current, and debt to worth. See individual definitions for "acid," "current," "quick" ratios.

FIXED ASSETS

Equipment, buildings, etc., which are purchased and used for long-term purposes.

FIVE "Cs" OF CREDIT

A system used by lending officers to evaluate a loan application: Character, Cash Flow, Collateral, Capitalization and Conditions. See individual definitions.

FAIR MARKET VALUE

What a qualified buyer will pay for goods, services, or property.

GEOGRAPHIC TARGETING

Specializing in serving the needs of customers in a particular area, thus restricting advertising and other marketing efforts to that area.

GRANT

Money given to a business that does not need to be repaid.

GUARANTY

Promise by an individual or organization to repay a loan in the event of default.

GDP - Gross Domestic Product

The most comprehensive single measure of aggregate economic output. Represents the market value of the total output of the goods and services produced by a nation's economy.

GNP - Gross National Product

A measure of a nation's aggregate economic output. Since 1991 GDP, a slightly different calculation, has replaced GNP as a measure of U.S. economic output.

GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP)

The most comprehensive single measure of aggregate economic output. Represents the market value of the total output of the goods and services produced by a nation's economy.

GROSS NATIONAL PRODUCT (GNP)

A measure of a nation's aggregate economic output. Since 1991 GDP, a slightly different calculation, has replaced GNP as a measure of U.S. economic output.

GUARANTEED LOAN

A loan made and serviced by a lending institution under agreement that a governmental agency will purchase the guaranteed portion if the borrower defaults.

GOALING

Each year, our government spends billions of dollars in goods and services purchases from private firms. To foster an equitable federal procurement policy, government-wide small business goals, in terms of a percentage of annual expenditure, are established for federal agencies. SBA negotiates the goals annually with each federal agency on an individual basis.

GILS - Government Information Locator Service

Choosing More... will take you to our GILS web site.

GOPHER

Predecessor to the World Wide Web - a text based version of our web site. There are many lists of valuable sources of information including address/phone lists for all SBA offices, Business Information Centers, SBA Disaster Area Offices, SCORE, Small Business Development Centers, Small Business Investment Companies, and Veterans Affairs Officers.

GUIDE TO SBA's DEFINITIONS OF SMALL BUSINESS

The U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has prepared a guide to assist the general public in understanding SBA's definitions of a small business. They are termed "size standards," and represent the largest a firm can be and still be considered a small business. This guide provides general information on size standard requirements and also addresses most of the typical concerns of the public regarding the use of size standards.

GOODWILL

An intangible asset of a business that relates to a favorable relationship with customers, and excess earning power.

HARDWARE

A term used to describe the mechanical, electrical and electronic elements of a data processing system.

HAZARD INSURANCE

Insurance required showing lender as loss payee covering certain risks on real and personal property used for securing loans.

HUBZone

Historically Underutilized Business Zones - Through the HUBzone Empowerment Contracting program federal contracting opportunities are provided for qualified small businesses located in distressed areas. Fostering the growth of these federal contractors as viable businesses, for the long term, helps to empower communities, create jobs, and attract private investment.

HELP DESK

SBA maintains an Answer Desk staffed with multi-lingual personnel. You may either call them free or send an e-mail.

HANDICAPPED

A term often used synonymously with "Disabled" to indicate individuals whose physically or mental abilities prevent them from fully function in normal activities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) gives federal civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, State and local government services, and telecommunications.

INCOME STATEMENT

Financial statement showing a company's sales, expense and net income or loss for a specific period of time.

IRB

See INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND

INCUBATOR

A facility designed to encourage entrepreneurship and minimize obstacles to new business formation and growth, particularly for high technology firms, by housing a number of fledgling enterprises that share an array of services. These shared services may include meeting areas, secretarial services, accounting services, research libraries, on-site financial and management counseling and word processing facilities.

INDEPENDENT AND QUALIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

Public accountants are independent when neither they nor any of their family have a material, direct or indirect financial interest in the borrower other than as an accountant. They are qualified, unless there is contrary evidence, when they are either (1) certified, licensed, or otherwise registered if so required by the state in which they work, or(2) have worked as a public accountant for at least five years and are accepted by SBA.

INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND (IRB)

A tax-exempt bond issued by a state or local government agency to finance industrial or commercial projects that serve a public good. The bond usually is not backed by the full faith and credit of the government that issues it, but is repaid solely from the revenues of the project and requires a private sector commitment for repayment.

INNOVATION

Introduction of a new idea into the marketplace in the form of a new product or service, or an improvement in organization or process.

INSOLVENCY

The inability of a borrower to meet financial obligations as they mature, or having insufficient assets to pay legal debts.

INTEREST

An amount paid a lender for the use of funds.

INTERMEDIARY ORGANIZATION

Organizations that play a fundamental role in encouraging, promoting, and facilitating business-to-business linkages and mentor-protégé partnerships. These can include both nonprofit and for-profit organizations: chambers of commerce; trade associations; local, civic, and community groups; state and local governments; academic institutions; and private corporations.

INVERSE ORDER OF MATURITY

When payments are received from borrowers that are larger than the authorized repayment schedules the overpayment is credited to the final installments of the principal which reduces the maturity of the loan and does not affect the original repayment schedule.

INVESTMENT BANKING

Businesses specializing in the formation of capital. This is done by outright purchase and sale of securities offered by the issuer, standby underwriting or "best efforts selling."

INVITATION FOR BIDS

Formal solicitations for offerings, to perform procurements by competitive bids when the specifications describe the requirements of the government clearly, accurately, and completely; but avoiding unnecessarily restrictive specifications or requirements which might unduly limit the number of bidders.

INDUSTRY

Concerns primarily engaged in the same kind of economic activity are classified in the same industry regardless of their types of ownership (such as sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation). The US Office of Management and Budget (OMB) classifies approximately 1,000 activities as industries under NAICS. For each industry, except those in the Sector of public administration, SBA has established a size standard. Industries are described in detail in North American Industry Classification System - United States, 1997. It can be found in many libraries or purchased from the National Technical Information Service, by calling (800) 553-6847 or (703) 605-6000.

INTERMEDIARIES - BusinessLINC

Intermediaries are organizations that play a fundamental role in encouraging, promoting, and facilitating business-to-business relationships and mentor-protégé partnerships. In addition to their many other functions, many organizations serve as intermediaries between the community and business, for businesses within an industry, for businesses within a geographic area, and for businesses with state and/or local governments. In their various capacities, many of these organizations accumulate information about programs that are offered by their members, in their community, or in their industry. As a result, these organizations are in a unique position to serve as a go-between for potential business-to-business relationships or mentor-protégé partnerships.

INTERNET PRIVACY POLICY

Choose "More..." to read SBA's Internet Privacy Policy

IRS

Internal Revenue Service - with our link going to their publications and notices

INTEREST RATES APPLICABLE TO SBA LOANS

Interest rates are negotiated between the borrower and the lender but are subject to SBA maximums, which are pegged to the Prime Rate.

IRS - Forms

Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Forms

INSTALLMENT LOAN

One in which the amount of interest is added to the principal and repaid by the borrower in equal periodic payments.

INVENTORY

Merchandise that is purchased and/or produced and stored for eventual sale.

INVENTORY TURNOVER

How often the inventory is sold and replenished over the course of a year.

JUDGMENT BY CONFESSION

The act of debtors permitting judgment to be entered against them for a given sum with a statement to that effect, without the institution of legal proceedings.

JUDGMENT

Judicial determination of the existence of an indebtedness, or other legal liability.

JOB DESCRIPTION

A written statement listing the elements of a particular job or occupation, e.g., purpose, duties, equipment used, qualifications, training, physical and mental demands, working conditions, etc.

JUNK BOND

A high-yield corporate bond issue with a below-investment rating that became a growing source of corporate funding in the 1980s.

JOINT VENTURE

In a joint venture both firms share, in some proportion, the responsibility and the profits or loss on a contract. They are considered affiliated (see "Affiliates," above) for the purpose of that contract. Normally, the revenues or the employees of both firms are added together to determine the size of a joint venture. However, on certain large Federal procurements, a joint venture comprised of only small businesses would qualify as a small business joint venture. This is limited to procurements that exceed $10 million in value that are classified with an NAICS industry having an employee-based size standard, or that exceeds one-half of the size standard for procurements classified with an NAICS industry having a revenue-based size standard. Also, certain 8(a) firms may joint venture with other firms without being considered affiliates (see 13 CFR 121.103 and 124.513 for more information).

JOBS

SBA occasionally has job vacancies open to the public. Choose More... for a listing of vacancies that may exist at this time.

JOBS - PAY TABLES - GOVERNMENT

Choose More... for the latest OPM tables.

LOCAL SBA OFFICES

SBA maintains offices in all States, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

LEASE

A contract between the owner (lessor) and the tenant (lessee) stating the conditions under which the tenant may occupy or use real estate or equipment. Terms usually include a specific period of time and a predetermined rate.

LEGAL RATE OF INTEREST

The maximum rate of interest fixed by the laws of the various states, which a lender may charge a borrower for the use of money.

LOWDOC

See SBA LOWDOC.

LENDING INSTITUTION

Any institution, including a commercial bank, savings and loan association, commercial finance company, or other lender qualified to participate with SBA in the making of loans.

LEVERAGED BUY-OUT

The purchase of a business, with financing provided largely by borrowed money, often in the form of junk bonds.

LIABILITY

Debt owed by the company such as bank loans or accounts payable.

LIEN

A charge upon or security interest in real or personal property maintained to ensure the satisfaction of a debt or duty ordinarily arising by operation of law.

LINE OF CREDIT

A short-term loan, usually less than one year.

LIQUIDATION

The disposal, at maximum prices, of the collateral securing a loan, and the voluntary and enforced collection of the remaining loan balance from the obligators and/or guarantors.

LIQUIDATION VALUE

The net value realizable in the sale (ordinarily a forced sale) of a business or a particular asset.

LITIGATION

Refers to a loan in "liquidation status" which has been referred attorneys for legal action. Also: The practice of taking legal action through the judicial process.

LOAN AGREEMENT

Agreement to be executed by borrower, containing pertinent terms, conditions, covenants and restrictions.

LOAN PAYOFF AMOUNT

The total amount of money needed to meet a borrower's obligation on a loan. It is arrived at by accruing gross interest for one day and multiplying this figure by the number of days that exist between the date of the last repayment and the date on which the loan is to be completely paid off. This amount, known as accrued interest, is combined with the latest principal and escrow balances that are applicable to what is now referred to as the loan payoff amount. In the case where prepaid interest exceeds the accrued interest the latter is subtracted from the former and the difference is used to reduce the total amount owed.

LOSS RATE

A rate developed by comparing the ratio of total loans charged off to the total loans disbursed from inception of the program to the present date.

LOSS RESERVE ADJUSTMENT RATE

A reserve rate based upon the ratio of the aggregate net chargeoffs (chargeoffs less recoveries) for the most recent five years to the total average loans outstanding for the comparable 5-year period.

LOAN FORMS

Several application forms for various SBA programs are maintained on our site - some are fillable and printable online.

LESSEE

The user of equipment or property being leased.

LAWS & REGULATIONS - SBA

For those pertinent to small business, please see...

LINKING CRITERIA

SBA requirements for establishing a link from the SBA website to another website. Choosing "More..." will lead you to SBA's linking criteria and and a submission form.

LIQUID ASSETS

Cash, checks and easily-convertible securities available to meet immediate and emergency needs.

LISTSERVER

A service where in individuals can subscribe to and receive SBA and other publications by electronic mail.

LICENSE - LICENSES - BUSINESS REGISTRATION

Businesses are licensed and registered at local and state levels of government. Each state has their own mechanism or criteria for obtaining licenses. Choosing "More..." will take you to state site listings.

LOANS - Pollution Control Loan Program

Pollution Control Loans are intended to provide loan guarantees to eligible small businesses for the financing of the planning, design, or installation of a pollution control facility. This facility must prevent, reduce, abate, or control any form of pollution, including recycling.

LOANS - Veterans

The SBA has not been provided funds for direct loans to Veterans, although Veterans are eligible for special consideration under SBA's guaranty loan programs. The special consideration given such individuals includes:

LOANS - 7(A) Loan Guaranty Program

Financing Your Business 7(A) Loan Guaranty Program General Description What SBA Seeks in a Loan Application Loan Amounts Eligibility Loan Maturities Interest Rates Associated Fees Guaranty Percents Prepayment Specialized 7(A) Loan Programs GENERAL DESCRIPTION The 7(a) Loan Guaranty Program is one of SBA's primary lending programs. It provides loans to small businesses unable to secure financing on reasonable terms through normal lending channels. The program operates through private-sector lenders that provide loans which are, in turn, guaranteed by the SBA -- the Agency has no funds for direct lending or grants.

LOANS - SBA LowDoc Loan Program

SBA LowDoc - Further streamlines the making of small business loans. The maximum loan-$150,000. Calls for a response from the SBA within 36 hours of receiving a complete application. Guaranty percent follows 7(a) policy

LONG TERM

Period usually greater than one year.

LESSOR

The party to a lease agreement who has leagl or tax title to equipment or property, who grants the lessee the right to use the equipment or property for the lease term, and who is entitled to the rental fees.

LEASE RATE

The period rental payment to a lessor for the use of assets. It may also be considered as the implicit interest rate in minimum lease payments.

MATURITY

The date on which a loan becomes due.

MARKUP

Markup is the difference between invoice cost and selling price. It may be expressed either as a percentage of the selling price or the cost price and is supposed to cover all the costs of doing business plus a profit. Whether markup is based on the selling price or the cost price, the base is always equal to 100 percent.

MATURITY EXTENSIONS

Extensions of payment beyond the original period established for repayment of a loan.

MERGER

A combination of two or more corporations wherein the dominant unit absorbs the passive ones, the former continuing operation usually under the same name. In a consolidation two units combine and are succeeded by a new corporation, usually with a new title.

MORTGAGE

An instrument giving legal title to secure the repayment of a loan made by the mortgagee (lender). In legal contemplation there are two types: (1) title theory -operates as a transfer of the legal title of the property to the mortgagee, and (2) lien theory -creates a lien upon the property in favor of the mortgagee.

MENTOR

A business, usually large, or other organization that has created a specialized program to advance strategic relationships with small businesses.

MONEY

A full listing of loan programs is on our web site in the Financing Your Business area.

MENTOR - BusinessLINC

The Mentor Network is composed of large businesses that have created specialized programs that advance strategic relationships with small businesses. These programs range from classroom teaching, to one-on-one technical assistance, to peer groups and advisory boards, to supplier development programs. Often these programs lead to the development of business relationships that may lead to subcontracting opportunities or other business opportunities.

MENTOR - 8(a)

The U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) Mentor-Protégé program enhances the capability of 8(a) participants to compete more successfully for federal government contracts. The program encourages private-sector relationships and expands SBA's efforts to identify and respond to the developmental needs of 8(a) clients.

MARKET

The existing or potential buyers for specific goods or services.

MICROENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT

The mission of the Interagency Workgroup on Microenterprise Development is to better coordinate the work of federal agencies involved in microenterprise efforts and to develop a coherent framework for federal government efforts to promote microenterprise.

MICROLOAN PROGRAM

The MicroLoan Program provides very small loans to start-up, newly established, or growing small business concerns. Under this program, SBA makes funds available to nonprofit community based lenders (intermediaries) which, in turn, make loans to eligible borrowers in amounts up to a maximum of $35,000. The average loan size is about $10,500. Applications are submitted to the local intermediary and all credit decisions are made on the local level.

MEDIA ALERTS

SBA issues Media Alerts of significant upcoming events in the small business community. Choosing More... will take you to our Headline News area.

MARKETING

The total of activities involved in the transfer of goods and services from the producer or seller to the consumer or buyer. Marketing activities may include buying, storing selling, advertising, pricing and promoting products.

MARKET VALUE

What a willing buyer will pay for goods, services, a property or a business.

NEGOTIATED GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

The sole and exclusive procedure available to all employees in a bargaining unit and the employer for processing grievances and disputes.

NEGOTIATION (EMPLOYEE)

The "face to face" process used by local unions and the employer to exchange their views on those matters involving personnel policies and practices, or other matters affecting the working conditions of employees in the unit and reduced to a written binding agreement. Used also by contracting officers to reach agreement with potential contractors.

NEGOTIATION (CONTRACTING

Contracting through the use of either competitive or other-than-competitive proposals and discussions. Any contract awarded without using sealed bidding procedures is a negotiated contract.

NEGOTIATION DISPUTE

That point in negotiations where labor and management cannot come to an agreement on some or all of the issues on the bargaining table and the services of the FMCS have not been utilized.

NET WORTH

Property owned (assets), minus debts and obligations owed (liabilities), is the owner's equity (net worth).

NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (NAICS)

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) is replacing the U.S. Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) system. NAICS will reshape the way we view our changing economy. NAICS was developed jointly by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to provide new comparability in statistics about business activity across North America.

NOTES AND ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

A secured or unsecured receivable evidenced by a note or open account arising from activities involving liquidation and disposal of loan collateral.

NEGOTIATION

Contracting through the use of either competitive or other-than-competitive proposals and discussions. Any contract awarded without using sealed bidding procedures is a negotiated contract.

NONMANUFACTURER

For purposes of Federal government contracts, a firm that supplies a product it did not manufacture is termed a nonmanufacturer. To qualify for Federal government contracting, a nonmanufacturer must have 500 or fewer employees, be primarily in the wholesale or retail trade, and supply the product of a US small manufacturer. This requirement is called the "nonmanufacturer rule." This rule does not apply to supply contracts of $25,000 or less that are processed under Simplified Acquisition Procedures. The requirement may also be waived through formal procedure by the Associate Administrator for Government Contracting if there is no small manufacturer in the Federal market for a class of products.

NOT DOMINANT

A concern is not dominant in its field of operation when it does not exercise a controlling or major influence on an industry. As part of its review of a size standard, SBA investigates if a concern at or below a particular standard would be dominant in the industry, on a national basis. Thus, a concern at or below the size standard is presumed not to be dominant in its field of operation.

NONMANUFACTURER RULE WAIVERS

Section 303 (h) of Public Law 100-656 and Section 210 of Public Law 101-574 incorporated into the Small Business Act requires that agency contracts be directed solely to small business manufacturers under set-aside provisions. This requirement is commonly referred to as the Nonmanufacturer Rule. The Small Business Act also contains provisions that allow the Administrator of the SBA to waive this requirement when there are no small business manufacturers or processors available to supply the product to the Federal Government.

NON SET-ASIDE REPORT

The purpose of this page is to provide a system to alert SBA's Office of Government Contracting when Government Acquisition Offices do not set aside requirements for Small Business.

NATURAL RESOURCES ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The federal government sells large quantities of natural resources and surplus real and personal property authorized for sale in accordance with public law. SBA cooperates with other federal agencies to channel a fair share of this property and resources to small businesses. SBA's Natural Resources Sales Assistance Program is intended to ensure small businesses obtain a fair share of government property sales and leases through small business set-asides. SBA also provides counseling and other assistance to small businesses on government sales and leasing.

NMVC - New Markets Venture Capital

The New Markets Venture Capital (NMVC) program is modeled after the Small Business Administration's extremely successful Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program but has a specific mission of economic development in low-income (LI) areas. Through a combination of equity-type financing and intensive operational assistance to smaller businesses located in LI areas, the program seeks to assist local entrepreneurs, create quality employment opportunities for residents and build wealth within these communities. SBA intends to achieve these public policy objectives through financial assistance to newly formed NMVC companies and to existing Specialized Small Business Investment Companies (SSBICs).

NEW MARKETS VENTURE CAPITAL - NMVC

NEWS/NEWS RELEASES

SBA issues news releases and media alerts of significant happenings or decisions in the small business community. Choosing More... will take you to our Headline News area.

NEGATIVE NET WORTH

A business condition when total liabilities exceed total assets.

ORDERING COSTS

Administrative costs of placing, tracking, shipping, receiving and paying for an order.

ORDINARY INTEREST

Simple interest based on a year of 360 days, contrasting with exact interest having a base year of 365 days.

OSDBU

See Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization.

OBLIGATIONS

Technically defined as "amount of orders placed, contracts awarded, services received, and similar transactions during a given period which will require payments during the same or a future period." Also, another term for debt: money, merchandise or service owed to someone.

OFFICE OF SMALL & DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS UTILIZATION (OSDBU)

Federal Offices of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBUs) offer small business information on procurement opportunities, guidance on procurement procedures, and identification of both prime and subcontracting opportunities.

OUTLAYS

Net disbursements (cash payments in excess of cash receipts) for administrative expenses and for loans and related costs and expenses (e.g., gross disbursements for loans and expenses minus loan repayments, interest and fee income collected, and reimbursements received for services performed for other agencies).

OMBUDSMAN

The National Ombudsman and the Fairness Boards will receive comments about federal compliance and enforcement activities from small businesses, and report these findings to Congress every year. The report will give each agency a kind of "customer satisfaction rating" by evaluating the enforcement activities of regulatory agency personnel and rating the regional and program offices of the regulatory agencies responsiveness to small business.

OSHA (OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY & HEALTH ACT)

To assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the States in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions; by providing for research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health; and for other purposes.

OFFICES AND SERVICES/SBA

SBA has more than 90 offices in the United States to serve your local needs.

OHA - Office of Hearings and Appeals

The Office of Hearings and Appeals, an independent office of the Small Business Administration (SBA or Agency). It is composed of two offices, the Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA), and the Freedom of Information/Privacy Acts (FOI/PA) Office. The Small Business Administration established the Office of Hearings and Appeals (OHA) in 1983 to provide an independent, quasi-judicial appeal of certain SBA program decisions. OHA succeeded the SBA Size Appeals Board. Over the years, the SBA has expanded OHA's mission.

PRIME CONTRACT

A contract awarded directly by the Federal government.

PRIME RATE

Interest rate which is charged business borrowers having the highest credit ratings, for short term borrowing. As published daily in the Wall Street Journal, it is the basis for rates to other lenders.

PARTNERING

A mutually beneficial business-to-business relationship based on trust and commitment and that enhances the capabilities of both parties.

PARTNERSHIP

A legal relationship existing between two or more persons contractually associated as joint principals in a business.

PATENT

A patent secures to an inventor the exclusive right to make, use and sell an invention for 17 years. Inventors should contact the U.S. Department of Commerce Patent Office.

PREFERRED LENDER PROGRAM (PLP)

The most active and expert lenders qualify for the SBA's streamlined lending programs. Under these programs, lenders are delegated partial or full authority to approve loans, which results in faster service from SBA. Preferred lenders are chosen from among the SBA's best lenders and enjoy full delegation of lending authority in exchange for a lower rate of guaranty. This lending authority must be renewed at least every two years, and the lender's portfolio is examined by the SBA periodically. Preferred loans account for more than 10 percent of SBA loans.

PREQUAL

The Prequalification Pilot Loan Program uses intermediaries to assist prospective borrowers in developing viable loan application packages and securing loans. Once the loan package is assembled, it is submitted to the SBA for expedited consideration; a decision usually is made within three days. If the application is approved, the SBA issues a letter of prequalification stating the SBA's intent to guarantee the loan.

PRIME

Program for Investment in Microentrepreneurs Act: The U.S. Small Business Administration plans to issue Federal grants awards to qualified organizations under PRIME to provide training and technical assistance to disadvantaged microentrepreneurs. These organizations include: non-profit microenterprise development organizations or programs; intermediaries; other microenterprise development organizations or programs that are accountable to a local community, working in conjuction with a State or local government or Indian tribe; or Indian tribes acting on their own, with proper certification that no other qualified organization exists within their jurisdiction.

PRODUCT LIABILITY

Type of tort or civil liability that applies to product manufacturers and sellers.

PROFESSIONAL AND TRADE ASSOCIATIONS

Non-profit, cooperative and voluntary organizations that are designed to help their members in dealing with problems of mutual interest. In many instances professional and trade associations enter into an agreement with SBA to provide volunteer counseling to the small business community.

PRO-Net

SBA's Procurement Marketing Access Network, or PRO-Net, is a "virtual" one-stop procurement shop. The database offers an electronic search engine for contracting officers and serves as a marketing tool for small businesses that register with the system. It contains the profiles of thousands of small firms.

PROPRIETORSHIP

The most common legal form of business ownership; about 85 percent of all small businesses are proprietorships. The liability of the owner is unlimited in this form of ownership.

PROTEST

A statement in writing by any bidder or offeror on a particular procurement alleging that another bidder or offeror on such procurement is not a small business concern.

PAYMENT BOND

A type of surety bond wherein the surety company guarantees payment from the contractor to parties who furnish labor, materials, equipment and supplies for a contract.

PERFORMANCE BOND

A type of surety bond where the surety company guarantees the contractor will fulfill the contract in accordance with its terms.

PROTEGE - 8(a)

PROCUREMENT FORECASTS - Annual

The Small Business Act requires that agencies annually publish a list of their requirements for upcoming fiscal year. These listings may be accessed through individual agency websites or the SBA website.

PCRs - Procurement Center Representatives

SBA's Procurement Center Representatives (PCRs) (Word 97) or (PDF), located in area offices, review and evaluate the small business programs of federal agencies and assist small businesses in obtaining federal contracts and subcontracts. Choosing More... will take you to a PDF listing. Or you may go to Word 97 listing at http://www.sba.gov/gc/pcr.doc

PROTEGE - BusinessLINC

In previous business-to-business relationship programs, the relationship between the large company and small business was referred to as mentor-protégé programs. The BusinessLINC Protégé Network is a comprehensive on-line data base that provides immediate registration for both protégé opportunities and small business procurement/contracting opportunities through SBA's PRO-Net system. Protégé registration is hyperlinked to PRO-Net so that your information can efficiently be included in small business profiles scanned by large businesses for both mentor-protégé relationships and small business contracting opportunities. One registration is all that is needed to make your business available to both opportunities!

PLAIN LANGUAGE

Choose "More..." to view SBA's Plain Language home page.

PTACs - Procurement Technical Assistance Centers

The Defense Logistics Agency, on behalf of the Secretary of Defense, administers the DoD Procurement Technical Assistance (PTA) Cooperative Agreement Program. PTA Centers are a local resource available to provide assistance to business firms in marketing products and services to the Federal, state and local governments.

PDF - Portable Document Format

Many Government agencies now present information in PDF format - choosing More... will take you to our Viewing Utilities should you need a reader.

PAY TABLES - Government

Choose More... for the latest OPM tables.

PRIVACY

Choose "More..." to read SBA's Internet Privacy Policy

PRIVACY POLICY - INTERNET

Choose "More..." to read SBA's Internet Privacy Policy

PMI - Presidential Management Intern Program

The PMI Program has been attracting outstanding graduate students to Federal service for the past 19 years. Executive Order 12364 established the program in 1977. According to the Executive Order, the purpose of the Presidential Management Intern Program is to: Attract to the Federal Service outstanding men and women from a variety of academic disciplines who have a clear interest in, and commitment to, a career in the analysis and management of public policy.

PRESS/PRESS RELEASES

SBA issues press releases and Media Alerts of significant happenings or decisions in the small business community. Choosing More... will take you to our Headline News area.

POLLUTION CONTROL LOAN PROGRAM

PL 85-536 or Public Law 85-536 (The SBA Act)

The Small Business Act as Amended July 24, 2001 - It is the declared policy of the Congress that the Federal Government, through the Small Business Administration, acting in cooperation with the Department of Commerce and other relevant State and Federal agencies, should aid and assist small businesses, as defined under this Act...

PL 85-699 or Public Law 85-699 (Investment)

Small Business Investment Act of 1958 - It is declared to be the policy of the Congress and the purpose of this Act to improve and stimulate the national economy in general and the small-business segment thereof in particular by establishing a program to stimulate and supplement the flow of private equity capital and long-term loan funds which small-business concerns need for the sound financing of their business operations and for their growth, expansion, and modernization, and which are not available in adequate supply: Provided, however, That this policy shall be carried out in such manner as to insure the maximum participation of private financing sources.

PL 104-121 or Public Law 104-121 (Regulatory Fairness)

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 - The Oversight of Regulatory Reform provision of the Act created the National Ombudsman and 10 Regional Fairness Boards to provide small businesses with the opportunity to comment on enforcement activity by federal regulatory agencies. Through this provision, Congress and the President have provided a way that small businesses can meaningfully participate in the regulatory process by establishing a forum in which to express their views and share their experiences about federal regulatory activity.

PL 104-135 or Public Law 104-135 (HUBZone)

HUBZone Empowerment Contracting Program - The HUBZone Act defines a HUBZone as a historically underutilized business zone which is in an area located within one or more qualified census tracts, qualified non-metropolitan counties, or lands within the external boundaries of an Indian reservation.

PL 106-50 or Public Law 106-50 (Veterans)

Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999 - The Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) have agreed on an interim rule amending the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to implement portions of the Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999 (Pub. L. 106-50). The Act established new assistance programs for veterans and service-disabled veterans who own and operate small businesses.

PETTY CASH

A small fund maintained for incidental expenses.

PRECAUTIONARY BALANCES

Cash held for emergencies or unexpected outflows of funds. Also known as "contingency fund."

QUALIFIED EMPLOYEE TRUSTS LOAN PROGRAM

The objective of this program is to provide financial assistance to Employee Stock Ownership Plans. The employee trust must be part of a plan sponsored by the employer company and qualified under regulations set by either the Internal Revenue Service Code (as an Employee Stock Ownership Plan or ESOP) or the Department of Labor (the Employee Retirement Income Security Act or ERISA). Applicants covered by the ERISA regulations must also secure an exemption from the Department of Labor regulations prohibiting certain loan transactions.

QUICK RATIO

Current assets less inventories divided by current liabilities. Also called "acid ratio."

QUALIFIED EMPLOYEE TRUSTS LOAN PROGRAM

QUICK RATIO

Current assets less inventories divided by current liabilities. Also called "acid ratio."

RFQ - Request for Quotation

A request for market information by the government, used for planning purposes.

RATIO

Denotes relationships of items within and between financial statements, e.g., current ratio, quick ratio, inventory turnover ratio and debt/net worth ratios.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Solicitations for offerings for competitive negotiated procurements when it is impossible to draft an invitation for bids containing adequate detailed description of the required property and services. There are 15 circumstances in the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) which permit negotiated procurements.

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

The amount of profit (return) based on the amount of resources (funds) used to produce it. Also, the ability of a given investment to earn a return for its use.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)

A solicitation issued by the government to prospective offerors. An RFP describes what the government requires and how the offerors will be evaluated. Negotiations may be conducted with offers. Award is based on a combination of lowest price and technical merit.

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION (RFQ)

A request for market information by the government, used for planning purposes.

RECEIVABLE CONVERSION PERIOD - RCP

Time btween the sale of the final product on credit and cash rescipts for the accounts payable.

RECIPROCITY- SBA/DOT Certification Reciprocity for Disadvantaged Businesses

REGFAIR

The Oversight of Regulatory Reform provision of the Act created the National Ombudsman and 10 Regional Fairness Boards to provide small businesses with the opportunity to comment on enforcement activity by federal regulatory agencies. Through this provision, Congress and the President have provided a way that small businesses can meaningfully participate in the regulatory process by establishing a forum in which to express their views and share their experiences about federal regulatory activity.

REGULATORY FAIRNESS

REGULATORY FLEXIBILITY ACT (RFA)

The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612) requires federal agencies to consider the effects of their regulatory actions on small businesses and other small entities and to minimize any undue disproportionate burden. The chief counsel for advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration is charged with monitoring federal agencies' compliance with the act and with submitting an annual report to Congress.

RFP - Request for Proposal

A solicitation issued by the government to prospective offerors. An RFP des