Which FAR part deals with socioeconomic programs for small businesses?

Part 19 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) specifically addresses socioeconomic programs aimed at fostering the growth and participation of small businesses in federal contracting. This part outlines policies related to various small business categories, including small disadvantaged businesses, women-owned small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, and historically underutilized business zones (HUBZone) businesses. It establishes the framework for setting acquisition goals, providing preferences, and ensuring that small businesses have equitable access to federal contracts.

The other parts mentioned in the choices focus on different aspects of acquisition processes. For instance, Part 8 pertains to required sources of supplies and services, while Part 15 deals with negotiations for contracts and the competitive process for source selections. Part 23 primarily addresses the environment, energy conservation, and the acquisition of sustainable materials, thus not directly targeting small business socioeconomic programs. Therefore, the clarity of Part 19's role in supporting small businesses makes it the correct answer in this context.