Typical Steps for Getting Business From the Federal Government
Interested in doing business with the federal government? There are a lot of opportunities as long as you’ve got patience and you’re willing to follow the rules. Here are some steps to start you on your way.
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Interested in doing business with the federal government? There are a lot of opportunities as long as you’ve got patience and you’re willing to follow the rules. Here are some steps to start you on your way.
- Start with the Small Business Administration
Begin with a visit to your nearest SBA and SBA-sponsored Small Business Development Center or go online towww.sba.gov. Here you will find resources, reports, and educational programs to provide you with the necessary information to bid successfully on government contracts.
- Read the essential tool of federal contracting: the FedBizOpps site
FedBizOpps.gov is the single government point-of-entry (GPE) for federal government procurement opportunities over $25,000. Government buyers are able to publicize their business opportunities by posting information directly to FedBizOpps (FBO) via the Internet. Through one portal—FedBizOpps—commercial vendors seeking federal markets for their products and services can search, monitor, and retrieve opportunities solicited by the entire federal contracting community.
- Locate your nearest Procurement Technical Assistance Center
The PTACs assist small businesses in marketing and selling products and services to federal, state, and local governments. For locations, call 409-886-0125 and ask for the Association of Government Marketing Assistance Specialists.
- Search opportunities to be a subcontractor
This is especially beneficial when you are just getting started; you gain valuable experience and begin to build credibility for your business. Review the site for the “Top 100 Contractors and Their Purchasing History” for suggestions.
- Be a team player
Team up with a similar business. There is strength in numbers, especially for newcomers. Network with other business owners. Build a list of your own contacts and find out about opportunities through your network.
- Get your foot in the door
Get to know and visit the contracting agencies that you are interested in doing business with. Visit the Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization Directory. Having contacts who are familiar with you and your company’s capabilities is critical when bidding on micro-purchases from the government. (Micro-purchases are purchases under $2,500.)
Source: Business.gov (www.sba.gov). A website run by the federal government that guides visitors through the maze of government rules and regulations and provides access to services and resources to help them start, grow, and succeed in business.
