Government Contracting - APEX Accelerator

Whether you are just getting started in government contracting or a seasoned pro, schedule a meeting with an APEX Accelerator Advisor to develop and implement an individualized strategy to work in the government contracting marketplace.

Washington APEX Accelerator hosts a number of training workshops and outreach events throughout the year to provide practical, hands-on information you need to do business with the government.  Workshop topics have included how to find local procurement opportunities, applying for certifications, construction and bonding, marketing your strengths in a capabilities statement, doing business with GSA, and how to perform a solicitation review and prepare a response.  APEX Accelerator-sponsored events range from Meet the Buyers (local, state and federal) to specific programs within the federal government such as the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program.  The Washington APEX Accelerator events calendar is full of opportunities to learn and grow within the government marketplace.

Help determine the target markets for your product and service through market research.  Provide guidance with developing a marketing strategy.  APEX Accelerator works to bridge opportunities between buyers and suppliers through matchmaking events and other outreach methods.  

Help to decipher solicitations by reviewing contract clauses, terms, definitions and requirements to ensure your interactions with bid target agencies are correct, complete and powerful.

 A Capability Statement is a resume for your business. It is a standard marketing tool that provides a concise snapshot about the products and services being provided, how the business stands out and what experience the business will bring to government agencies. APEX Accelerators provide training and help to refine this important tool. 

Help navigate the world of registrations and certifications.  Certain registrations and certifications are required to contract with various levels of government agencies, while others help firms to be more competitive in the government marketplace.  APEX Accelerator provides assistance with System for Award Management (SAM) registration, SBA Dynamic Small Business Search, Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) certification, 8(a) certification, Veteran-Owned (VOSB) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned certification, Washington State certifications and certifications for Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB).

This is a software tool which searches numerous government databases for bids which match your firm's criteria.  Some of these searches include System for Award Management (SAM), Washington Electronic Business Solutions (WEBS), General Services Administration (GSA), Defense Logistic Agency (DLA) buying commands and other agencies.  Bid leads are sent via email daily.  There is a 30-day free trial to test out this tool and after the trial period it’s $165 annually. 

"I've been working with Cara. She's exceptional. I work in a field that doesn't really lend itself to commercialization. She has helped me to change my focus so that I can monetize the work that I do. She's super patient and attentive." 

— Constance, Constance Scharff Ph.D., Writing & Research 

"The personal 1-on-1 meetings with Mark Johnson were essential to me understanding what more was needed on my company profile in SAM and DSBS.  I would recommend everyone building a business with government client targets go through the counseling sessions."

— Doug, DHC Contracting Inc.

"This is an essential program for companies just starting out in government contracting. Government contracting can feel daunting in the beginning, even with APEX, it would be too difficult for a small business to start without APEX as a resource."

— Krista, Component Products Corporation

"As a small business owner in Snohomish County, I had no idea there were resources to help me navigate government contracts and subcontracts. The training, one-on-one technical assistance, and access to government databases have been incredibly beneficial for my business." 

— James Olive, JI Solutions Services   

"Incredible work, professional people and quality work. They were all easy to work with and helped grow my business." 

— Tony Gallina, Aqua-Terr Systems Inc.