Well... The local SBA office got back to me. They can't help. Despite my objections to not being able to fully participate in the government SBA program without a current security clearance.

In my field, 100% of the opportunities with government contracting have required a clearance. I also have a Navy buddy just starting his own business that is in the same boat. I refuse to believe that I am the only business that has experienced this fiasco.

So, the next time you hear the bureaucrats saying that they have done such and such to help veterans and small business, realize that 1/2 of the allotted money goes into administration and the other half does not get allocated to its intended audience. I am not asking for a grant, loan or special treatment, I just want a fair shot in the Government procurement program.

I have a complaint registered with the Abudsman's Office clearly stating this issue. Not much hope there, just an automated response to the form I filled out on line on their site.

Tags: SBA, Small Business Administration, Security Cleanance, Adudsman,