Department Of Defense
The Department of Defense is one of the largest consumers of government contracts in the world? Many companies think that this agency is only contracting with giant companies that supply tanks and missiles.
Remember, the Department of Defense supplies the Army, Navy, Airforce, and many other defense agencies. They are very open to working with small businesses and are fully funded for the rest of this year. They try to reward at least 20% of their contract to Small businesses.
Companies can go to https://business.defense.gov/Small-Business/DoD-Small-Business-Offices/ to find out more information about contracting and subcontracting opportunities. Here are just some of the agencies that need everything from educational materials to custodial services:
Army
- Aberdeen Proving Ground
- Army Contracting Command
- Army Corps of Engineers (HQ)
Navy
- Marine Corps Installations and Logistics
- Marine Corps System Command
- Military Sealift Command
Air Force
- Air Force District of Washington
- AFLCMC
How Do You Get Started Working With The Government?
SAM stands for System Award Management.
To do any business with the federal government, you must register your business in the System for Award Management. The government will not hire any type of business that has not registered in the SAM directory.
We have an article on our site, Everything You Need to Know About SAM for Small Businesses, that gives you important information about this process.
As a smart entrepreneur, you have already used our site to register in the SAM directory. Congratulations on taking this important first step to become a government contractor.
Registering With The SAM Directory Also Has Other Important Advantages
You must register with the SAM directory to apply for government grants.
A grant is a way the government funds your ideas and projects to provide public services and stimulate the economy. Grants support critical recovery initiatives, innovative research, and many other programs listed in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA).
A grant is different from a loan in that it is money that your business does not have to pay back. So, registering for the SAM directory gives you access to free money!
Innovation and Technology
We must remember that some great innovations in technology came out of this branch of the government. This includes the internet, which is a vital part of our lives and has changed the way we look at the world. The Internet was initially a DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency project, as well as GPS, the cell phone, the computer mouse, and drones.
Being a defense contractor meant that you are on the cutting edge of tomorrow’s technology. This is not only a noble pursuit, but it allows you to gain a distinct advantage over other civilian tech companies.
Never Underestimate The Power Of Relationships
As part of understanding your customer, it is very important to build strong relationships within the government agencies. The government is not a giant cold faceless entity. It is made up of people and they will appreciate the opportunity to speak to you face to face. An impressive interview might win you a supporter that will lobby in your favor.
A Fantastic Presentation Is The Key To Success
Having a good presentation is vital to winning over the federal government. You want to be able to make an excellent impression that goes beyond just having a great price point. It is important to understand that this is not your typical business client. Because the presentation to the United States is so different from presenting to other businesses, many companies get flustered. Let us guide you through this often intimidating process.
Be Prepared To Give An Oral Presentation
Oral presentations are very common for companies who want to work for the United States government. This is not going to be your typical audience. You might not get the greeting and niceties that usually come with this type of business meeting. The government employees are not allowed to react to anything that is said. You should be used to seeing no feedback until the question and answer period.
You Still Need To Make Yourself Stand Out
The federal government will be watching many groups of people from various other companies. They have a point system and award the contract to the business that scores the most points. The government will often see the basic material being presented numerous times. Your presentation must be unique and memorable in a positive way. Your company needs to catch their attention.
What do I need to register for the Sam Directory?
You will need the following :
- A Data Universal Numbering System or DUNS from Dun and Bradstreet
- Your Tax Identification Number or TIN
- A Social Security Number if you are a Sole Proprietor.
CAGE Code (Commercial and Government Entity)
This code is five characters and unique to your business. It’s your ID code, and government agencies will identify your business using this code. It is a bit like a social security number for your business. If your business includes more than one facility, then you will need multiple CAGE codes. Each location must have its unique code, and each location must be registered separately with SAM.
SAM Directory Can Help
Remember, registering for the SAM directory gives a business automatic entry into the extremely lucrative marketplace of the federal government. It is also a crucial step for applying for rewarding government grants that can help your business reach its full potential. Let us, the professionals at SAM Directory, make sure that you do all that is needed to not miss out on this important opportunity. We will make certain that your application is processed quickly and efficiently so you can start being a federal contractor as soon as possible. We remove this hassle so you can go about the important mission of running your company. Stay tuned for the next article in this series.