How to Make the Most of a Procurement Fair: Lessons from My Journey
When I first started attending procurement fairs and conferences, I was completely overwhelmed. I’d walk into these massive rooms full of agency representatives and corporate buyers, thinking my goal was to introduce myself to as many people as possible. I’d go from table to table, shaking hands, handing out my …
Read More
The Basics of Subcontracting for Construction & Professional Services: Opportunities and Risks for MWBEs
Subcontracting can be a powerful way for Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) to break into the world of government contracting and large-scale private projects. The benefits are clear: subcontracting offers MWBEs a chance to gain valuable experience, establish past performance, and build relationships that can lead to larger opportunities. …
Read More
The Art and Science of Cost Estimating for Construction
Cost estimating in construction is both an art and a science. It requires precision, technical expertise, and the ability to interpret detailed blueprints and specifications. For Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) in particular, mastering cost estimating is essential for competing effectively and profitably in the construction industry. Unlike other …
Read More
Why Record Keeping and Reporting Are Critical for Small Business Success
Securing a government contract can feel like a major victory for a small business—and it is. These contracts often open doors to new opportunities, higher revenue, and increased credibility. However, winning the contract is only the beginning of the journey. For many businesses, the true challenge lies in navigating the …
Read More
Understanding the Contract Award Process: Avoiding Costly Mistakes
When I reflect on my early days as a government contractor, I vividly recall how much of my focus was on winning the work. I poured my energy into crafting proposals, sharpening my bid strategies, and being competitive on pricing. But once I received the notification that my business was …
Read More
Achieving Excellence in Contract Management and Performance Evaluations
Effective contract management is more than just oversight—it’s the foundation for building trust, delivering quality, and securing future opportunities. If you’re a Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) engaged in government contracting, this workshop is your gateway to mastering the skills that drive success. Why Attend? Managing contracts and excelling …
Read More
Mastering Human Resources Management: A Toolkit for M/WBE Success
Building a strong, compliant, and high-performing team is essential for your business’s success in government contracting. Whether you’re hiring your first employee or managing a growing workforce, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of human resource management with confidence. Why This Workshop …
Read More
Rethinking Prime and Subcontractor Relationships: Building Smarter Partnerships
When I first entered the world of government contracting in the 1990s, my understanding of prime and subcontractor relationships was overly simplistic. Primes were the “big guys,” responsible for bidding and winning contracts, while subs were the “little guys” brought in to help meet MWBE (Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprise) …
Read More
The Strategic Importance of Accurate Online Business Profiles
For Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs), maintaining an accurate and comprehensive online business profile is more than a formality—it is a strategic imperative. These profiles play a critical role in determining visibility, credibility, and access to contracting opportunities with major agencies like NYC, NYS, the federal government, and the …
Read More
Why Mastering the RFP Process Is a Game-Changer for Small Businesses
For small businesses, scaling to the next level often requires stepping into new arenas—larger contracts, more complex projects, and partnerships with leading organizations. The Request for Proposal (RFP) process is one of the primary gateways to these opportunities, particularly in industries dominated by large corporations and government agencies. Yet, for …
Read More