Just as with my Quick Hitters on the FAR and GSAR, my Quick Hitter series on the DFARS is meant to simplify contracting business with the government. This time with DoD.
DFARS 219.7103-2 Contracting Officer Responsibilities
There’s a plethora of pertinent information on DoD’s Mentor-Protege Program located within Appendix I of this DFARS subpart. I recommend that you peruse at your leisure.
COs/KOs are to conduct the following when dealing with companies within the program; negotiate credit/reimbursement for the mentor company in advance or allow the ACO to negotiate in real time, reimburse the mentor company for loans to the protege company (failure to repay are the responsibility of the contractor to recoup), inspect the possibility of various progress payments and repayments, make reimbursement its own line-item if possible, not to reimburse in excess of $1M unless authorized by appropriate personnel, advise contractor of requirements in Appendix I such as reporting and provide a copy of the program agreement to the appropriate personnel.
The purpose of DoD’s Mentor-Protege Program is to incentivize new businesses to participate within the defense market space so that further competition is created within that specific specialized arena (DFARS 219.7100).
This opportunity presents a phenomenal launching pad to gather information and to be guided through the process of a DoD project from cradle-to-grave. It in no way equivocates to a decision of automatic award. If you are a prospective contractor within the defense arena then I encourage you to take advantage of what is available here.
It is always comforting to have a helping hand. Robertson KX is available to assist in the proposal process, market research analysis phase, creation of negotiation points, negotiation and compliance aspects of contracting.
If you think I can help you then email nicholas.s.robertson@outlook.com for your introductory email and free consultation. 
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