The federal government has many programs to support small businesses in winning government contracts, including government IT contracts, federal and state construction engagements, defense projects, defense contract management, and more. One of the most powerful is the Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP).
Quite naturally on a team of majority men, I was volun-told to write the article for Women’s History Month. I am certain any of the men could have written a compelling article for the month, but I wanted the privilege to address the intersection of Women’s History and Government Contracting.
Why do we still celebrate Black History Month? What is the intersection of Black History and government contracting? Wait, don’t bypass this article because at first glance you think it doesn’t connect to you. It is worth reading. We all stand on someone’s shoulders in our life’s journey.
Subcontracting is an excellent pathway for businesses to enter the government contracting arena. Did you know that when a large prime contractor wins a contract over $750,000, or $1.5 million in construction, they are required to award 35% of that contract to small businesses? This
Government Contractors Association is thrilled to introduce the Emergency Webinar Addressing How to Write Your Social Disadvantage Narrative!
This week, the SBA celebrated its 70th birthday. However, one of its storied 50-year-old programs, the 8a Certification Program, may be on the verge of significant changes. The 8a Program, as we know it, will never be the same again.
Big changes may be coming to the 8(a) Certification Program known as 8(a) Business Development Program. It is part of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and is designed to assist small businesses that are economically and socially disadvantaged in gaining access to government contracts. For businesses currently in the 8(a) Certification Program or those planning on applying for entrance into the 8(a) Program, there are some potential major modifications on the way.
Teaming and joint venture agreements are powerful tools often utilized by successful businesses in the government market. Although each agreement may seem straightforward, there are significant differences between them. The SBA has recently implemented new rules applicable to both agreements, so contractors should be aware of these essential differences.
You have decided government contracting will be one of your revenue streams. That is a great choice… if you can achieve sustainability. Many companies win a few contracts but never figure out how to win contracts consistently and, more importantly, profitably.
Are you currently working with the government or considering joining the ranks of successful businesses that do? In both scenarios, you're likely curious about how much the agencies spend and how much of that "spending pie" is allocated to your area of service. After all, if there isn’t enough funding for contractors in your category, it’s best not to waste time pursuing those contracts.
Many leaders talk about connections and their positive impact on our business, especially if they're the "right" connections. Yes, that's true, but did you know when it comes to developing relationships with government agencies, it's not just about entering information into your database and throwing out a name when you feel it will help your cause?
Join the GCA Family
Only 22% of federal contracting dollars are awarded to small businesses. Our goal is to be an agent of change by helping businesses owned by women, minorities, and veterans to get their fair share of the opportunities in the government market.
