Failure of Bidder To File Application for a Certificate of Competency

The protester objected to the agency's finding that it was nonresponsible and to being required to apply for a Certificate of Competency from the Small Business Administration (SBA). The bidder's failure to file an application for possible issuance of a Certificate of Competency was analogous to SBA's refusal to issue one and was regarded as having affirmed the agency's determination that the bidder was nonresponsible. The claim for bid preparation costs was denied since the bidder failed to pursue the procedures necessary to obtain the award.