POSITION YOUR BUSINESS TO WIN STIMULUS CONTRACTS
By Frederick L. Hargrove

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009. This $787 billion economic stimulus package will help jumpstart our economy by modernizing our nation’s infrastructure, enhance our energy independence, invest in science and technology, expand educational opportunities and computerize our healthcare system. Federal agencies will receive a good portion of the money but billions will be received by state and local agencies. According to the Small Business Act, the federal government has a goal of awarding 23% of contracting dollars to small businesses each year. Based on the availability of federal money, the time is ripe for small businesses to start selling to the government and there has never been a better time to focus your marketing efforts in this arena. There is ample evidence to show that the attendance at procurement and contracting seminars have increased significantly in the last year. As a Government Contracting Consultant, I have noticed a surge in new inquiries from small companies looking for new contracting opportunities. These companies are looking to get a piece of the “economic stimulus pie” and rightfully so. Quite often, small businesses don’t know how to access these federal contracting opportunities. Government contracting opportunities don’t come easy to companies. You must compete and prepare a proposal in order to win a government contract.

If your small business is hoping to capitalize on the economic stimulus package with the federal government, you must consider the following:

• Register in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) database. You can’t be awarded a contract unless you are registered.

• Obtain your NAICS Code through SBA.

• Obtain your 8(a) Certification if you are a small minority, woman owned business.

• Obtain your GSA Schedule Contract – This contract vehicle is the most sought after contract in the federal government. It is also the preferred contract vehicle for Contracting Officers and federal buyers.

• Pursue opportunities and solicitations listed on the website known as FedBizOpps.

• Network and meet with government officials before the Request For Proposal (RFP) is issued.

• Team or subcontract with prime contractors. This is another opportunity to work on a government contract.

• Hire a Government Contracting Consultant to help you navigate through the federal marketplace. You can’t afford to make mistakes because it can be very costly. Seek out expert advice which will increase your chances of success.

If you pursue the above recommendations, your company will be appropriately prepared to obtain federal contracts through the economic stimulus package. Don’t be left behind and miss out on a real opportunity!

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