The Small Business Administration (SBA) earlier this year published a list of steps owners of small businesses can take to increase their chances of winning a government contract.
The SBA suggests owners of small businesses:
- Team and collaborate with other owners of small businesses. This can help you build credibility and prove your proficiency. Teaming with other small businesses can also help when set-aside contracts are too big for a single business to handle.
- Find a mentor that can help you learn the federal contracting marketplace. Networking events are great places to find mentors, as are programs aimed at owners of small businesses. The SBA recommends three: the SBA 8(a) Program, ChallengeHer; and SCORE.
- Demonstrate you can meet contract requirements. A procurement officer will look at your track record for delivering timely services, providing reliable goods, and sticking to a budget. A procurement officer also will factor in the qualifications of your team/employees when evaluating your bid. In other words: The stronger your industry reputation, the better your chances of winning a government contract.
- Earn required certification and complete necessary registration requirements. This is an essential step you must take to be qualified to bid on government contracts.
US Federal Contractor Registration can help you register for several certification programs that can help improve your chances of winning a government contract. These programs include:
- SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program – As mentioned above, this is a valuable resource for readying firms for success in the contracting marketplaces
- SBA's HUBZone Program – Provides preferential access to federal contracts for businesses situated in underutilized urban and rural communities
- The Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses program – Provides access to set-asides for exclusive competition among service-disabled veteran businesses.
- Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs) – Gives women entrepreneurs access to certain set-asides designated for WOSBs
US Federal Contractor Registration also can help you navigate the federal contracting marketplace. Enroll in its Simplified Acquisition Program, and get access to the resources and materials you need to increase your chances of winning a federal contract.
To speak with a Contracting Specialist, Call: (866) 216-5343
