This month, we finally began receiving responses to government RFPs that we submitted late last year. Out of four proposals that had been in limbo since the post-inaugural delays, three came back with a familiar and frustrating outcome: thanks, but not this time.

I’ll be honest—it stung. We poured hours of research, creativity, and strategy into each response. The waiting was tough. The rejection was tougher. But it’s all part of the reality of working in the government space, where procurement cycles are slow and competition is steep.

Thankfully, the same week brought me to the Ohio Business Matchmaker in Dayton, my first time attending this powerful event. And what a game-changer it turned out to be. 

Billed as the largest business-to-government matchmaking event in the state, this gathering was like “speed dating for your business.” I met face-to-face with buyers from federal, state, and local agencies, shared our MARQUEE story, and walked away with more knowledge, energy, and opportunity than I ever expected.

What really shifted my mindset were the stats I learned in the workshops:

A 22% selection-for-review rate is considered strong at the federal level.

At the state and local level, a 64% review rate is considered exceptional.

Suddenly, our 25% review rate wasn’t so bad. It was a sign that MARQUEE is on the right track, especially given that we are relatively new to government contracting.

The rejection wasn't a failure - It was part of the process. Attending the Matchmaker helped me understand how to fine-tune and position MARQUEE for long-term success.

More importantly, it reminded me that no effort is wasted. Each proposal builds capacity. Each connection opens doors. Each meeting moves us forward—even when the outcome isn’t immediate.

So, to those of you exploring new opportunities this year, I say: don’t get discouraged. There’s room at the table, and with preparation and perseverance, we will all get there.



— Aundréa Cika Heschmeyer, President

With spring cleaning in full swing, my usual excitement for deep cleaning my house also inspires me to get my office into shape. 

My desk is usually easy enough: tossing a few random papers, clearing out sticky notes scribbled with to-dos, and rescuing a few abandoned coffee mugs — and voilà, a fresh start!

But what about my computer — the most essential tool in my office? Back in the day, when computers slowed down, it was a real burden. I had to save files manually, juggle external hard drives, zip disks, and USB drives (yes, I’m showing my age!).

Thankfully, cloud storage has made things a lot easier — and I rest easier knowing my data is safe.

Today, my spring computer cleanup is straightforward: review downloads, clear my desktop, and delete duplicate files. One of my favorite tools that helps streamline the process even further is CleanMyMac - it’s a real game-changer!

Keeping your computer running efficiently helps prevent crashes, protects your files, and keeps you productive, which, for us creatives, makes all the difference.