Don't allow someone to convince you to stop, because you could be on the verge of your breakthrough!

• Specialist in time management
• Expert in research and planning
• Top-tier communicator (communication is key!)
• Detail-oriented
• Successful

I've coached several firms on the process of obtaining 8(a) certification.  Many have excelled in their knowledge of the federal marketplace and have utilized the 8(a) set-asides from military and civilian agencies.  In particular, one firm started with $300,000 in annual sales to their current annual sales of over $20,000,000.  Her 8(a) Woman-Owned Small Business captured many of the sole source contracts as well as the competitive 8(a) set-asides.

I've counseled and supported many small businesses on the process of obtaining a GSA MAS schedule.  One firm was able to be awarded a contract within 3 months from the date of submission to contract award! incredible!  I asked the Contracting Officer to expedite the award as he stated all documents were submitted timely and were complete.  Usually, an award from GSA can take a few months or up to two years for an award. (quicker with me)

Many firms do not understand the requirements to be certified as HUBZone.  I can walk you through your state's HUBZone map.  SBA  issued a direct final rule extending the HUBZone map freeze from December 31, 2021 to June 30, 2023. 

Basic qualifications include:

•  Must be a small business
•  At least 51% owned and controlled by a U.S. citizen
•  Principal office must be located in a HUBZone        
•  Have at least 35% of your employees living in a HUBZone

Effective January 1, 2023, the Department of Veterans Affairs SDVOSB program was transferred to the SBA. If you are a Service-Disabled Veteran who owns at least 51% of your company and controls day-to-day operations, you can self-certify online by selecting the correct Representations and Certifications in your profile at the website for System for Award Management (SAM.gov). 

Not as simple as it sounds, but that's where I come in!

I've coached woman-owned small business owners to get certified so they can participate in WOSB set-aside solicitations. SBA has a checklist for all types of business structures at wosb.certify.sba.gov/prepare.  See synopsis below:

• Must be a small business and qualify as such with SBA
• Not currently in the program
• 51% owned and controlled by a female U.S. citizen 
• Full-time female employee must hold highest position in firm
• Head of day-to-day and long-term operations must be female