Business Development
The California DBE Reapplication Window Is Open
What Previously Certified DBE Firms Need to Know (March 2026 Update) To recap, the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) effective October 3, 2025, that changed how Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concession DBE (ACDBE) eligibility is evaluated nationwide. The most significant change: Race‑ and sex‑based presumptions of disadvantage have…
Read MoreWhy Teaming Will Matter More Than Certifications in FY 2026
What the Federal Market Is Signaling to Small Businesses FY 2026 is forcing small businesses to rethink how they pursue work—because role selection now matters as much as eligibility. Small business success in contracting is being shaped less by eligibility and more by positioning. Agencies are awarding fewer contracts, consolidating work into larger vehicles, and…
Read MoreStop Selling “What You Do.” Start Selling What Public Agencies Buy.
This is not to imply you don’t sell what you offer, but that you define your offer to fit the agency’s needs. Public agencies don’t award contracts to the most ambitious businesses—they award contracts to the most clearly positioned ones. If your offer isn’t framed in procurement language, tied to agency needs, and easy for…
Read MoreBreaking Down the DOT’s New DBE FAQ (October 2025 Update)
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has released its official FAQ on the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concession DBE (ACDBE) Interim Final Rule. This guidance gives long-awaited answers — and softens some of the tough or unclear parts of the rule that took effect on October 3, 2025. Quick Recap of the IFR The new rule…
Read MoreIt Depends: How the Variability of Government Contracting can “Make or Break” Your Contracting Success
When it comes to contracting with the government, one size does not fit all. Even if you are a seasoned contractor, you will find that a new rule, situation, unspoken agency preference, etc. can change up the game that you thought you knew. This variability often leaves small businesses wondering how to navigate this complex…
Read MoreThe Importance of Strategic Partnerships in Government Contracting
This is not just an idea, it’s a proven strategy. Strategic partnerships are essential for small businesses in government contracting. They enhance capabilities, improve access to opportunities, mitigate risks, foster innovation, and boost credibility. Proactively seeking and cultivating these relationships can provide a solid foundation for growth and success in this competitive arena. Check out…
Read MoreSmall Business Federal Contracting: A Gateway to Growth in 2024
In the dynamic landscape of government contracting, 2024 continues to follow the pattern of the previous year, the soaring trajectory of opportunities for small businesses in the contracting arena. Small Business growth in contracting isn’t just a passing phase; it’s a steady, resolute ascent that’s rewriting the narrative of procurement dynamics. Per a DelTek study, there…
Read MoreLet’s Get It! Top 10 Tips for Securing Your First Contract Award in 2024
Landing that first government contract has yet to happen despite your best efforts. Take a look at ten tips to help you revise your strategy and invigorate your process in the new year so that you can win. 1. Conduct a Comprehensive Capability Assessment: Are you ready for government contracting? Evaluate your business’s strengths, core…
Read MoreIF a Government Shutdown Occurs: What Government Contractors Should Know
During a federal government shutdown, existing contracts aren’t always put on hold. If a contract still has time and funding allocated, it typically continues, unless the contracting officer decides otherwise. The contract remains valid until the funding is exhausted. Once funding runs out, contractors can choose to pause work or take a risk, hoping for…
Read MoreEmpowering HUBZone Small Businesses: Record-Breaking Federal Contract Awards
In a historic milestone for the HUBZone program, small businesses in this category were granted an astounding $16.3 billion in federal contract awards. This remarkable achievement represents the highest amount ever awarded to HUBZone small businesses. Although falling short of the 3% statutory goal, this accomplishment signifies significant progress and opens the door to even…
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