Unlocking Government Contracts: APEX Accelerator and the 2024 North Puget Sound Contracting Conference

Unlocking Government Contracts: APEX Accelerator and the 2024 North Puget Sound Contracting Conference Main Photo

18 Oct 2024


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Connecting Small Businesses to Big Opportunities

On November 7, 2024, the North Puget Sound Contracting Conference will gather businesses, government agencies, and prime contractors at the Lynnwood Convention Center for valuable networking and educational opportunities. Organized by the Economic Alliance Snohomish County, Washington APEX Accelerator, and the WA Small Business Development Center, the conference is an essential platform for businesses looking to tap into the lucrative world of government contracting.

With over 600 expected attendees, this year's conference will feature matchmaking sessions, panel discussions, and insights into how businesses can secure local, state, and federal contracts. The event is tailored to help small enterprises enter the government contracting market, providing direct access to agencies, prime contractors, and resources like the APEX Accelerator.

APEX Accelerator: Supporting Businesses at Every Stage

The Washington APEX Accelerator, funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense, is critical in helping businesses navigate the complex world of government contracts. APEX Accelerator provides services like one-on-one advising, training, market research assistance, and bid reviews—all free to companies. Cara Buckingham, Center Manager and Advisor at APEX Accelerator says, "Our mission is to increase the number of Washington-based businesses winning government contracts."

Through APEX Accelerator, businesses receive personalized advice and support to understand the unique selling requirements of government entities. Buckingham explains, "Government contracting is a complex system. We help businesses assess where they might sell, develop their business infrastructure, and understand the finer details of contracts depending on the agency or type of product or service they offer."

APEX Accelerator also helps businesses decide if they should pursue certifications, helping veteran-owned and other small businesses, such as women-owned or minority-owned business designations, enhance their competitiveness for government contracts.

The 2024 North Puget Sound Contracting Conference: A Business-to-Government Gateway

The North Puget Sound Contracting Conference is a critical networking and learning event for businesses of all sizes. "We expect around 600 attendees, including exhibitors, government agencies, prime contractors, and resource groups like APEX Accelerator," Buckingham says. The event allows businesses to engage directly with government buyers and primes and participate in “matchmaking sessions” to explore contracting opportunities.

Panel discussions will cover vital regional projects and government contracting trends. Attendees will also find resource exhibitors such as Small Business Development Centers and financial institutions catering to this sector's business needs. Buckingham notes, "Businesses in construction, manufacturing, consulting, and service-based industries will benefit greatly from attending. "

Empowering Small Businesses Through Knowledge and Networking

Government contracts can be a significant growth avenue for small businesses, but they often need help entering this space. Conferences like the North Puget Sound Contracting Conference give these businesses the tools and connections they need to compete. Buckingham emphasizes, "The purpose of this conference is to give small businesses access to government agencies and prime contractors and help them understand how to participate in this market."

Whether new to government contracting or looking to expand your reach, this event is a must-attend. The APEX Accelerator team will be on hand to guide businesses through the intricacies of securing contracts, from market research to proposal submission.

With its strong focus on education and networking, the 2024 North Puget Sound Contracting Conference and the ongoing support of the APEX Accelerator provide an unmatched opportunity for Washington businesses to thrive in the government contracting space. Take advantage of the chance to unlock new growth opportunities for your business on November 7, 2024. To learn more about the conference and register, visit here.

EASC - Supporting growth and development

The Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC) supports the region’s economic growth and community in its unwavering dedication to empowering the entrepreneurial community of Snohomish County and driving economic development in the region. For more information about future events, we encourage you to visit the EASC website or contact us at Info@EconomicAllianceSC.org. To learn more about how you can get involved and support initiatives that benefit Snohomish County, visit us here and join the effort to create a thriving and prosperous community for all.