Workshop shows businesses how to gain government contracts
Nov. 6, 2002
KALAMAZOO -- Those interested in winning contracts with the government are invited to attend an upcoming Western Michigan University workshop to learn the basics.
Sponsored by WMU's Southwest Michigan Technical Assistance Center, "Basics of Government Contracting" will take place from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, at the Kalamazoo County Chamber of Commerce Building, 346 W. Michigan Ave. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. for the free event, which is open to the public. Those interested in attending should reserve a seat by contacting Janice Campbell at (269) 387-2005 or <janice.campbell@wmich.edu>.
The workshop is aimed at existing businesses interested in entering the government market as well as those who have done work with the government before but need a refresher.
"Government contracts are an excellent source of stability for businesses that go up and down with the economy," says Michael Black, director of the Southwest Michigan TAC, who will lead the workshop. "It appears that Congress is about to approve the largest Department of Defense budget since the Vietnam conflict. In light of current world events, there may never be a better opportunity to enter the government market than now. Sure, it's not for everyone, but if you don't take the steps to understand the process, it will be your competition that wins."
Black will kick off the seminar with a discussion of which businesses should enter the government market. He also will tell attendees how to register to bid on federal and state contracts; discuss special contracting programs for woman-owned and small disadvantaged businesses; review forms, regulations and laws; touch on how to get paid; and reveal steps for success in landing and executing government contracts.
Under the umbrella of WMU's Haworth College of Business and its Office of Business Development Services, the Southwest Michigan Technical Assistance Center offers free assistance to area companies interested in doing business with the government. Annually, center director Black and his staff help businesses secure more than $28 million in government contracts.
Media contact: Jessica English, 269 387-8400, jessica.english@wmich.edu