Blackletter

In this episode of The Blackletter Podcast, host Tom Dunlap sits down with Wright Lewis, partner at Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig, to break down the unique challenges of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the government contracting (GovCon) space.Unlike traditional M&A, GovCon deals involve regulations, set-asides, security clearances, and novation requirements that can make or break a transaction. Wright shares expert insights on what contractors, buyers, and sellers need to know before heading to market.Key topics covered:GovCon M&A vs. traditional M&A – why stock purchases dominate and how novation impacts deals.Handling facilities clearances and personnel clearances during acquisitions.The role of set-aside contracts (8(a), WOSB, SDVOSB, etc.) and how they affect valuations.Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCIs) and how to manage them in due diligence.Market uncertainty from DOGE contract terminations and SBA rule changes.Which sectors are rising in value (AI, cyber, defense, intelligenc