Maryland

criteria. What those criteria are tends to differ from one government entity to another, including state and federal. Also, some states or municipalities have reciprocal agreements and some do not. There is no definitive answer that can fit all instances as far as I know.

"Small business" can also have different variations. There can be "small" businesses, "minority' businesses and 'gender oriented" businesses, or combinations thereof. Again, one must look into whatever gov't agencies are involved and what the requirements are. They all have websites that are very informative.

No agency or entity will (ok...should) ever post solicitations for a sealed bid (or any type bid) without clearly posting the requirements to submit a bid. They also must provide understandable language, clear time frames and a readily identifiable source for clarifications...usually the person posting the solicitation for bids.

Not sure if this helps. It is not one size fits all.