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Are you ready for a Government Shutdown?  First step is to read your contract - Many federal fixed-price contracts may require continued performance. If you do continue to work, how will a shutdown influence your ability to receive timely payment? Reach out to your contracting officer prior to any potential shutdowns to help inform your contingency plan. Our staff have put together this helpful article (Read more) and we are hosting What to do during a Federal Government Shutdown on Oct 4th 12-1:30 PM Register

Thinking of OMWBE Certification? The Washington State Office of Minority and Women's Business Enterprises is waiving all certification fees through early 2024! Your local APEX Accelerator Advisor welcomes an opportunity to discuss benefits and eligibility of the certifications offered.

Capability Statements on DSBS - Federal contractors and subcontractors are now encouraged to submit a link to their capability statement in the Dynamic Small Business Search / SBA Profile. Learn how to access your DSBS Profile

Event Highlight

Meet the BIGS! Doing Business with the Government

Thursday, November 2, 2023 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM PST


Northern Quest Resort & Casino, 100 N Hayford Rd, Airway Heights, WA 99001


Are you a small business owner wanting to SELL to the government or SUBCONTRACT to large prime contractors?


If so, come MEET THE BIGS! You’ll have the chance to network with the largest government purchasers in our area, like Fairchild Air Force Base and the US Forest Service, as well as large prime contractors doing millions of dollars of work with the government every year.


Are you a government agency or large prime contractor that would like to connect with small businesses?


Whether you are looking to expand your pool of suppliers and subcontractors, or you are needing to meet your small business/outreach goals, MTB will give you the opportunity to meet and talk about doing business with hundreds of local small businesses from a variety of industries. 

Contact Us

Contact a Government Contracting Specialist today for assistance with all your government contracting questions.

[email protected]




Main Center

Thurston EDC

4220 6th Ave.

Lacey, WA 98503

360-860-6945 

 

Administrative Staff

Tiffany Scroggs, Program Manager

Marnie Tyson

Lisa Lagerstrom

Tori Stoner

 

Innovation Station

Kate Hoy

 

Thurston EDC

Grady Smith

Leslie Miller

 

Washington APEX Accelerator in Pierce County

Trena Payton

Maryam Lynch-Tate

 

Sub Centers

Economic Alliance Snohomish County

Cara Buckingham

 

Greater Spokane Inc.

Aleesha Roedel

 

Columbia River Economic Development Council

Julia Krivoruk

 

Green River College

Darrell Sundell

Melinda Martirosian


Kitsap Economic Development Alliance  

Mary Jo Juarez

James Davis

Terry Homburg

 

Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce

Maria Alleman


Contracting Opportunities

 

Prime Calls for Subs

Upcoming or Current SBIR/STTR Releases

Small business innovation research (SBIR) funding is available to small businesses working on cutting-edge technology. Find out if the federal government has a need for your innovation.


You can find more information and relevant links on the SBIR Website.


Upcoming Events for Innovators

SBIR/STTR Webinar series: Avoiding Administratively Declined Proposals & Foreign Disclosure

10/4/2023       12:00 PM - 1:30 PM


Find other events on the APEX Calendar


Other Funding


Navy R &D BAA – Development of Naval Power and Energy Systems

**For no-cost guidance on this announcement, contact the NW Tech Bridge


Need a Challenge? Check out Challenge.gov for exciting opportunities!


Questions? Kate Hoy, [email protected]

Events - Virtual unless otherwise noted

  • Focused Classes 
  • Monthly Meetings
  • Series Courses
  • Tradeshows

Focused Classes

Business Basics and Government Contracting for Native Owned Businesses: Understand RFPs 

10/3/2023       10:00 AM - 11:3AM       

Tulalip Tribes of Washington 

6406 Marine Drive Tulalip, WA, 98271 

Native-owned businesses are invited to attend a series of workshops dedicated to business basics and government contracting. Attend one or all five sessions. This series marks an important partnership between EASC, Tulalip TERO Office, Washington APEX Accelerator (formerly WA PTAC), SBDC, American Indian Chamber Education Fund APEX Accelerator, and Northwest Native APEX Accelerator.       


What to do during a Federal Government Shutdown      

10/4/2023       12:00 PM -1:30 PM       

Washington APEX will be hosting a client-based zoom meeting to address the possibility of a shut down. When anticipating a federal government shutdown, government contractors should take proactive steps to minimize potential disruptions and financial hardships. While the specific recommendations may vary depending on your industry, contract, and circumstances. 


Public Works Bidding Open House - Introduction to Bonfire      

10/4/2023       1:00 PM- 2:00 PM        Contractors 

10/4/2023       2:30 PM- 3:30 PM        Consultants 

DES is launching a new online bidding portal (Bonfire) that will allow you to submit bids and proposals to DES digitally, and will phase out in-person bidding and other submission methods. 


Working with Avista - Why WBE Certification Matters.    

10/10/2023     12:00 PM - 1:00 PM      

Have you ever wondered what Avista looks for in contractors? Or why it's important to get certified? In this session you will learn; the advantages of becoming certified, certification assistance resources, qualification requirements and what to consider before bid. 


WSDOT Construction & Design Open House 

10/11/2023     5:00 PM - 7:00 PM        

15700 Dayton Avenue North    Shoreline WA, 98133 

Find out about the more than $2 billion in projects that WSDOT plans to advertise in the next two years. Connect with WSDOT staff and others within the industry contractors and consultants.    


Steps Leading to a Federal Contract       

10/11/2023     2:00 PM - 4:30 PM        

The federal government's process to award a contract is like nothing you've experienced before. 

There are multiple steps to complete, in order to compete and be awarded a federal contract. 

You will learn each required step to complete for a federal contract, efficiency Tips and Tricks, how to get solicitations as soon as they are posted on sam.gov, and two extra bonus topics regarding post-award (debriefs & and contractor performance evaluations). 


Preparing to Bid: WA State Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Service Contract #15722 

10/11/2023     12:00 PM - 1:00 PM      

Learn Tips & Tools for Bidding on the Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Contracts #15722 when you join us for a 1-hour session covering how to dissect the solicitation using take-home tools including a pre-bid checklist and bid/no-bid decision matrix you can customize for your needs. Brought to you by APEX Accelerator and DES State Contracts Assistance Network (SCAN). 


Wage Determination - Service Contract Act or Davis Bacon Act    

10/18/2023     3:00 PM - 4:30 PM        

How does the Service Contract Act (SCA) or Davis Bacon Act (DBA) apply to me? You will learn; how to read a Wage Determination, how a Wage Determination applies to you, and your responsibility to pay the correct wage rates.  


USDA Web-Based Supply Chain Management trainings   

10/18/2023     10:00 AM- 12:00 PM                 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is providing current domestic and international commodity and freight vendors in the Web Based Supply Chain Management (WBSCM) System online training sessions on the following topics: “How to Submit a Bid (Domestic),” “How to Submit an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Bid,” “How to Submit an International Freight Bid,” and “How to Submit a Bid (International).”    

        

Meet the Buyer: Doing Business with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers   

10/18/2023     11:00 AM- 12:30 PM     

7130 W Grandridge Blvd Kennewick, WA, 99336 

Discover the keys to success in government contracting, learn about procurement processes, and engage with the Deputy Small Business Program manager, James Glenn from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or new to the field, this event offers valuable insights and networking opportunities to boost your business.   

       

King County Goods & Services Supplier Orientation        

10/19/2023     10:00 AM- 12:00 PM     

King County now offers a Goods & Services Supplier Orientation. During this free 2-hour online session, we'll discuss: Registering as a King County supplier, opting-in to County rosters, and certifying as a small firm. As well as how King County buys goods and services, what to expect when submitting a bid or proposal to King County, best practices for maximizing your opportunities, and E-Procurement Supplier Portal introduction.        

 

Government Contracts and Cybersecurity: Ensuring Compliance and Protection  

10/19/2023     10:00 AM - 11:30 PM    

2211 Rimland Drive, Room 106 Bellingham, WA, 98226  

Upcoming federal cybersecurity requirements are no joke. Learn what you need to do to be compliant and eligible for contracts. Topics include CMMC, NIST 800-171, cybersecurity self-assessment tools, and mandatory requirements. This is an in-person meeting. 


Preparing to Bid: WA State Janitorial Services #24723     

10/20/2023     12:00 PM - 1:00 PM      

Want to learn some Tips & Tools for Bidding on the Janitorial Services #24723? 

If yes, please join us for a 1-hour session covering how to dissect the solicitation using take-home tools including a pre-bid checklist and bid/no-bid decision matrix you can customize for your needs. Brought to you by APEX Accelerator and DES State Contracts Assistance Network (SCAN). 


Webinar: R&D Contracting w/ the Office of Naval Research (ONR)           

10/23/2023     6:30 AM - 9:00 AM        

At this webinar, you’ll learn about ONR R&D programs and contracting opportunities. ONR was established in 1946 “…to plan, foster, and encourage scientific research in recognition of its paramount importance as related to the maintenance of future naval power, and the preservation of national security.” ONR's mission is to discover, develop, and deliver new technology and capability for the Navy and Marine Corps. Our Sailors and Marines need the decisive technological edge to have the advantage in any engagement.

Monthly Sessions

Contracting Coffee Hour, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM       

Got contracting questions? We have answers!


University of Washington Virtual Workshops for Suppliers, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

The orientations will provide a learning opportunity to assist in navigating potential business prospects at the University and with other state agencies, as well as educational and other resources to assist businesses. 


APEX & SBDC First Friday Follow-up, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Friday Follow-up is an open forum, round table for businesses to get answers from your local PTAC counselor and SBDC Advisor. Bring your questions regarding government contracting and learn from knowledgeable Small Business Experts. Our main focus is to share resources for growing your business.


Contractor Connections: Outreach Office Hours 

10/10/2023     10:00 AM to 4:00 PM    

808 134th Street SW, Everett, WA, 98204 

Subcontractors and suppliers interested in making connections with primes performing on public works projects are invited to sign up for one-to-one meetings with Outreach Coordinator Darling Nava at Economic Alliance Snohomish County. In partnership with WA APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) and EASC, office hours offered the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month. 


PTAC: Prime Connect 

10/11/2023     8:00 AM - 9:00 AM       

A structured matchmaking event for Primes and Subcontractors to connect on future projects.


Wednesday with the Deputies for Small Business          

10/25/2023     10:00 AM - 11:30 AM    

Wednesday with the Deputy for Small Business is an opportunity for Industry partners to learn about doing business with the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division, Keyport.


Doing Business with the State – DES

10/19/2023     3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

On the third Thursday of the month, the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services (DES) facilitates an interactive conversation with state procurement professionals who can provide information and insight on how to do business with the state.         


Yes you can! Contracts with the government

10/25/2023     3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

7130 West Grandridge Blvd Kennewick,WA, 99336 

PPH is a dynamic initiative aimed at facilitating learning and fostering growth among our valued PTAC clients. This program brings together local businesses owners in an engaging forum designed to provide invaluable insights into the ever-evolving world of procurement. 


Si Se Puede - Contratos con el Gobierno            

10/25/2023     4:30 PM - 5:30 PM        

7130 West Grandridge Blvd. (Tri-Cities Business and Visitor Center), Kennewick, Washington, 99336 

“Si Se Puede - Contratos con el Gobierno” es una iniciativa dinámica destinada a facilitar el aprendizaje y fomentar el crecimiento entre nuestros valiosos clientes de PTAC. Este programa reúne a los propietarios de empresas locales en un foro atractivo diseñado para brindar información valiosa sobre el mundo de las compras en constante evolución.

Series Courses

Port of Seattle’s Advanced PortGen

A 5-week virtual training series followed by an in-person resources fair and networking event for small, minority and women-owned businesses wanting to learn how to be successful with government contracting. Learn how to identify requirements to be responsive and gather resources to support your efforts in selling to the Port of Seattle and other agencies.


Tuesdays 3 – 5 PM


Register

  • Bonding and Insurance, 10/3/2023
  • Financial Considerations, 10/10/2023
  • Resource Fair (in-person at Tabor 100), 10/17/2023


ScaleUp Business Training was designed to help established businesses increase profitability, build capacity and spur growth.  from WA State Department of Commerce and Thurston EDC

 

Teaches

·     Adopting business systems to save time and energy

·     Pathways to increased revenue and profits

 

Includes:

·     Online Learning Modules

·     Access to ScaleUp Alumni Network

·     Weekly Virtual Study Halls

 

Class 1: Oct. 17 – Dec. 12, 2023, 9 Week Virtual Training Course every Tuesday 9am - 10:30am

Class 2: Oct. 18 – Dec. 13, 2023, 9 Week Virtual Training Course every Wednesday 9am-10:30am

Class 3: Oct. 18 – Dec. 13, 2023, 9 Week Virtual Training Course every Wednesday 6pm - 7:30pm

Tradeshows

PSNS & IMF Industry Day, Keyport, WA

10/5/2023       10:00 AM- 2:00PM        


AGC of Washington Contractor Exchange, Seattle, WA

10/18/2023     9:00 AM- 5:00 PM 


Matchmaking for Subcontractors and Suppliers 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

  

Federal Facilities Three-Year Outlook & Reception 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM 


2023 Pierce County Thriving Together Resource Event Lakewood, WA   

10/18/2023     8:30 AM - 12:30 PM     


SAVE THE DATE: Infrastructure Assistance Coordinating Council Conference, Wenatchee, WA

10/24/2023      


North Puget Sound Contracting Conference, Everett, WA

10/26/2023     10:00 PM - 4:00 PM    

   

WA Dept of L & I Contractor Training Day, Lakewood, WA

10/27/2023     8:00 AM - 5:00 PM


Seattle Reverse Vendor Tradeshow, Seattle, WA

11/1/2023       11:00 AM - 3:00 PM    

  

DOE & PNNL Small Business SYNERGY DAY, Richland, WA 

11/8/2023       8:30 AM - 2:00 PM

        

INDUSTRY DAY EVENT: USACE, Portland District & Oregon National Guard, Clackamas, OR

11/14/2023     8:30 AM - 3:30 PM        

Govology classes, live and on-demand, are Free for Washington APEX clients – contact your APEX counselor for access. Click here for the list of Govology this month’s live classes. 

 

Recorded webinars available 

APEX Calendar

Washington APEX Accelerator, formerly Washington PTAC provides technical assistance to help Washington businesses successfully compete in the government marketplace. A program of the Thurston Economic Development Council, in partnership with the following subcenters: