Expand Your Market With Government Contracting

Small businesses in almost every industry can expand their market through government contracting. This is due to the large scope of products and services sought by local, state, and federal agencies. Every year, millions of dollars are set aside for small businesses in our state. For example, these purchases include food services, construction services, and much more. To expand your market with government contracting, there are a few things you should know.

Government Contracting Opportunities

You may have heard about the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) program. This program intends to replace the Minuteman III missile system. The F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne is one of the locations affected. While the details of the GBSD program are still being determined, there are many other opportunities available right now to expand your market to include the world’s largest customer – the U.S. Government. For instance, government agencies are currently looking for small businesses in Wyoming to provide HVAC maintenance in Worland, community treatment services in Casper and roofing and painting in Fort Washakie — just to name a few.

Preparing to Contract with the Government

There are several steps you need to take before working with the government. However, the Wyoming Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) can help you through each one at no cost. In addition, you will want to start gaining government contracting experience now. This experience will prove your business’ ability to deliver and to increase your chances of winning future contracts. So, to prepare to compete for federal contracts, you will need to:

• Obtain a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number;
• Register in the System for Award Management (SAM);
• See if they qualify for any socioeconomic programs;
• Learn how to respond to solicitations;
• And meet certain cyber-security standards or other requirements depending on the agency you are working with.

Help is Available to Expand Your Market with Government Contracting

It may seem overwhelming at first, but you’re not alone. An upcoming conference in Cheyenne on March 25 will serve as your best opportunity of the year to begin successfully competing for a contract. The 2020 GRO-Biz Conference will give you a chance to meet one-on-one with a large selection of procurement representatives from various government agencies. There are also eight training sessions to choose from and several networking opportunities. To learn more or to reserve your early registration discount for this event, visit WyomingSBDC.org/grobiz.

For more information on the GRO-Biz Conference or to receive no-cost assistance to expand your market with government contracting, you can contact your local PTAC or Wyoming Small Business Development Center Network advisor at WyomingSBDC.org/sign-up.

About the Author: Jake spent 12 years working in television news before crossing to the other side of media as Director of Public Relations for Idaho State University’s health care programs — which make up one third of the university. In his current role, he oversees the statewide marketing efforts for the Wyoming SBDC Network. When he’s not in the office, Jake enjoys road trips, going to the movies and tackling new home renovation projects with his wife.