Local businesses are diversifying their customer bases by tapping into a market that spends nearly $500 billion a year on products and services – the government. With help from the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), businesses in this region receive expert assistance in obtaining government contracts and getting a piece of a very large pie.
Local firms set a new record over the last year, securing over 1,000 contracts valued at nearly $100 million.
“Our aggressive approach has played a critical role in helping businesses successfully diversify into the government contracting arena. This is an extraordinary achievement that highlights the Regional Chamber’s focus on businesses of all sizes and types,” said Tim Herman, CEO, Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce.
“PTAC helped us develop the right approach, and I applaud them for the services they provided to help exceed our benchmark,” said Sharon Fleming, Government Specialist for Genesee Packaging, a PTAC client since 2001. This past year the firm surpassed their government contracting goals by 20 percent.
“We are among the most focused and aggressive PTAC programs in the state and we welcome new companies to our area,” said Andy Hayes, Procurement Counselor.
Many don’t view themselves as candidates to do business with the government, but the government buys everything from medical supplies and machinery to cake mix and clothing from businesses both large and small.
“Government contracts don’t just knock on your door, you have to work for them,” said Chelsea Schutz, Procurement & Economic Development Technician. “The rewards, though, are worth it.”
Genesee County businesses have a strategic advantage when entering the government marketplace. Working with the Genesee Regional PTAC makes doing business with the government, approachable, attainable and profitable.