This column is written by Tara Palacios and sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Are you interested in doing business with the government? Have you considered expanding your target market to the government, and need help navigating the process?
Many entrepreneurs are interested in doing business with the government and need detailed information on how best to enter the market. Below are BizLaunch’s Top 3 Tips to contract successfully.
Top 3 Contracting Tips
- Decide which level of government you’d like to pursue. Many small business owners look to the federal government as their first opportunity to do contract business with. Many entrepreneurs forget that the Commonwealth of Virginia and local municipalities are also in need of products and services from the private sector. Doing business with the state or local governments may be able to provide you with past performance that you need to win federal contracting opportunities.
- Follow the Opportunities. We also like to call this following the money (I.e., budget items). Research and uncover which agencies are spending money in your industry sector, when does the fiscal year begin and end (For example, Virginia’s budgetary cycle runs from July 1-June 30 each year) and understand competitive pricing so that you position yourself to win the bid.
- Attend mixers and conferences. Attend industry related events where key decision makers will be in attendance. Get yourself known in your field to the “correct,” contacts. Ensure that you are networking with influencers who can help you grow your company.
Resources to Help with Top 3 Contracting Tips
- BizLaunch, Virginia PTAP, Strategic FAR Advisors and Professionals by Design are offering an extensive training program on January 24 to address how to get an agency to “Pick Me.” Topics include pricing to win, knowing your value, HR and contracting rules will be addressed. For more information click here.
- The U.S. Small Business Administration’s website portal aids small businesses who are seeking to do business on the federal level. Many services are free and national conferences are offered to businesses located in Arlington.
- The Virginia Procurement Technical Assistance Program offers training and one-on-one assistance to businesses looking to do business with the government. Their consultation services are free. Many of their education programs are available for a minimum fee.
- The System for Award Management (SAM) website is a complimentary tool if you are looking to do sole sourcing opportunities of up to $2 million dollars. Large businesses and federal agencies can find your business directly on this system.
- Virginia’s Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity also offers a wide range of education programs and support of local businesses.
Recent Stories
Good Monday evening, Arlington. Let’s take a look back at today’s stories and a look forward to tomorrow’s event calendar. 🕗 News recap The following articles were published earlier today…
An 18-year-old Arlington woman is facing a litany of charges after an reported bike theft led to violence. The incident happened Sunday evening near the intersection of S. Walter Reed…
What do I do if school doesn’t fit my kid? That’s the question that so many of the parents and families ask when they’re looking at small independent schools like…
There is a new play area for kids inside Ballston Quarter with plenty of pint-sized attractions. Located on the first floor of the mall, near the about-to-close Macy’s, Junior Playland…
Well-Paid Maids recently unveiled a new scheduling system.
That means it’s easier than ever to book your professional home cleaning with the only certified living-wage home cleaning service in the D.C. area.
Here’s what to expect when you book your cleaning:
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Select your location.
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Choose your service (i.e. 1 BD/1BA). (This is also where you’ll see the rate.)
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Pick your cleaner. (If you don’t have a preference, opt for “any available.”)
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Schedule a date and time. You can also set up recurring cleanings and get a discount!
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Enter your information and reserve.
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Live Comedy Showcase Starring Winston Hodges
Friday, April 19
8pm (Doors open at 7)
Crystal City Sports Pub – 3rd Floor Lounge
Arlington, VA
Renegade Wednesday Roundup
At The Renegade hosted by Murlarkey Distilled Spirits
Country Music DJ’s Every Wednesday 7pm – Close Spinning Awesome Country, Western, Swing, Rockabilly, and Hick Hop with Discounted Drinks from Murlarkey Distilled Spirits.
Beginning Wednesday March 27
Come out for some