February 2004
Entering the World of Government Contracting
Every year government agencies award contracts to hundreds of thousands of smaller businesses. Our federal and state agencies are constantly looking for supply sources for the variety of goods and services they must buy. And, every day thousands of prime contractors look for small businesses to help fulfill the contracts they have with the federal government. There may be no reason why your company can't take advantage of this massive amount of purchasing power.
Admittedly, selling to the federal government is like no other marketing process. The language (acronyms) is usually unfamiliar and mysterious to begin with, the entire process can be cumbersome and the rules are different one agency from another. Yet, for those businesses that prevail and unravel the mysterious, the rewards in contracting dollars can make a real difference in revenues.
The big question is often, “How do I get started?” Or “Where can I go to get information or help?” Help is right around the corner. Partners in Contracting Corporation (PICC) is the only Procurement Technical Assistance Center in the State and exists solely to help Indiana businesses market and sell their products and services to the government…at all levels.
A representative from PICC is now available to assist Marshall County firms that would like to explore the government-contracting marketplace. We can help you get started in government contracting by clarifying the process and helping you through necessary registrations, certifications and bid solicitation research. PICC will instruct you on the basics of selling to the government, finding bid opportunities, finding subcontracting opportunities as well as many other aspects of selling to the federal government. PICC also provides information about PRO-Net and other special programs offered through the Small Business Administration and other agencies.
If you already have a history of contracting with government agencies PICC can assist with researching bid histories, national stock numbers and specifications. PICC can also assist with GSA scheduling and answer questions about the process.
In addition to individual assistance, PICC hosts matchmaking conferences for small business firms providing an opportunity to meet face-to-face with prime contractors and small business government purchasing specialists. Workshops and interactive networking opportunities abound at this type of conference. Our next matchmaking conference, scheduled for May 2004, is an outstanding opportunity that should not be missed.
Established in 1984 through a cooperative agreement with the US Department of Defense, PICC has helped thousands of businesses receive millions of dollars worth of government contracts. From registrations to bid research, GSA schedules to technical information, PICC has been helping small business firms understand the rules and government contracting process for nearly 20 years.
For more information regarding assistance from PICC contact the Chamber office at 936-2323 or PICC at 219-762-8644. |
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