RESOURCES

Important Information

Your First Steps to Entering the Federal Marketplace

For those companies with no government contracting experience, we suggest you begin by:

• Partnering with a company that already has government contracts in a subcontractor-type relationship;
• Finding some micro-purchase and simplified acquisition contracts which you can offer a bid; or
• Increase your private sector and/or commercial sales.

No matter which of the three you choose, this allows you to greater enhance you list of references  This is also a very good point in time to ensure that you take the necessary steps to meet the requirement for registration within the federal government.. These include obtaining a Dun & Bradstreet number, getting a Central Contractor Registration number, and registering your business with the Small Business Administration.  Until you have completed these three steps there really are no opportunities and you will not be noticed or offer any opportunity through federal contracts.  The easiest way to start getting contracts is to bid on tasks at the micro-purchase threshold (below $2500).

Many businesses benefit by attending networking events for local organizations, such as boards of trade, business breakfast /lunches, business council’s, and some chambers of commerce.  Also note that there are a number of Assistance Centers available to assist you such as the Minority Business Development Centers, Small Business Development Centers, and Procurement Technical Assistance Centers.

If you are interested in a formal marketing plan, we'd be glad to help you out. You can check out an HIE training or educational seminar or training session or one of our Marketing and Business Development offers. Contact us at 817 860-2607 for further information.