In 2017, there were over 7 million contractors working for the government. Many think that these jobs are reserved for big military-based companies, but that can’t be farther from the truth.
Government contractors are everywhere, and there’s a good chance you and your business are applicable for government work.
But how? How do you become a government contractor?
That’s what we’re going to look at today. Read on to find out more about how to become a government contractor here.
What Is a Government Contractor Anyways?
Government contractors provide specific services to government departments at the local, state, and federal levels. When these departments need something done, the private sector is usually one of the best places to go.
This is because companies are just as exceptional in fields like medicine, research, construction, and development as government experts. Those seeking contracts have to go through a lengthy process.
But who usually earns these contract jobs? What types of contractors are there?
Types of Government Contract Jobs
Just because you work for the government through contracts, doesn’t mean you’re pigeonholed into doing desk work. Some may provide research and intel while others might work in security.
IT and computer science contracts are also common, given the times we’re in. As such, government contract jobs span the length of the private business sector.
So how do you become a government contractor?
How to Become a Government Contractor
It goes without saying that becoming a government contractor requires a lot of expertise. The government is trusting you to deliver services on their behalf, after all.
Let’s take a look at some steps on how to become a government contractor:
Start Your Business
This might sound like a silly thing to suggest, but you can’t earn a government contract without a credible business. The federal government provides contracts to both corporations and sole proprietorships.
This means small businesses can get in on these contracts. The key here is to build connections and find the right contacts to advance your bids.
OneTeam is a great resource for doing just that. Check them out when starting your contract work bids.
Registration
You also have to register to become a government contractor, as the government takes your identity very seriously. This requires getting identification numbers and other logistics.
If you’re looking for state and local government contracts, it’s much the same process. Reach out to your officials for specific instructions.
Certification
Certifications might not secure a contract, but it’ll certainly help. Look to get certified for your specific sector, especially if you serve or are part of specific demographic subsets.
This means veteran-owned businesses or ones that serve minority communities. Certifications give you an edge when government contracts are being handed out.
Submit Bids
Finally, you can start to submit your bids. This is often done online and requires you to keep track of a few different documents and other logistics.
Pre-bid meetings and regular bid meetings are crucial if you want to communicate specific details about your project.
Leverage Government Contracts Today
Applying for government contracts can be intimidating, but it should never be out of the question. Use this guide to figure out how to become a government contractor today.
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