Small business status is a self-certification process. The self-certification process is also used for certification as a women-owned or veteran-owned small business.
The SBA, however, must certify a business as a small disadvantaged or a HUBZone business.
Being on a Schedule does not guarantee an order. However, Schedules can generate substantial orders for firms that actively market their products or services.
Procurements under $25,000 will require you to do research and engage in direct marketing. The Mid-Atlantic Procurement Directory, available for download through the Mid-Atlantic Region's Publications Library, is a good resource for this marketing.