This panel focuses on the barriers for small businesses in contracting with the US DOE. For FY2016 the DOE has set goals for Small Businesses. Small businesses and Disadvantaged, Woman-Owned, Disadvantaged-Veteran Owned and HUB Zone Prime Contracts are included with ranges set from 3% to 6% for prime contracts and up to 50% for subcontracts. During a declining US federal budget, with less contracting dollars and more going for base prime contractor services, these goals are challenging. This panel will interact extensively with the audience in listening and discussing methods to achieve these goals and barriers that need to be mitigated. All WM Exhibitors can attend this session in the Exhibit Hall without a WM technical registration badge as a conference service.