{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"How to Start & Grow a Government Contracting Business: Certifications, Funding & Getting Your First Contract","description":"Breaking into government contracting isn't just about paperwork \u2014 it's about building a business that can survive the long game. In this episode, Eric Coffie walks you through the exact mindset and practical steps to start and grow a federal contracting business from scratch. You'll learn: \u2022 Why most small businesses approach primes and agencies the wrong way \u2014 and what actually gets you in the door \u2022 How to identify agency pain points and position yourself as the solution (not just another vendor asking for a chance) \u2022 Which certifications matter most in 2024, including CMMC for DOD work \u2022 The subcontracting strategy that builds relationships AND generates revenue while you wait for a prime award \u2022 How to use fractional support to access senior-level expertise without full-time hiring costs \u2022 SBA funding, contract vehicle strategies, and how to find adjacencies on existing contracts \u2022 Why your network is your net worth \u2014 and how to turn connections into real relationships   Whether you're new to govcon, working toward your 8(a) or WOSB certification, or trying to scale past your first contract, this episode gives you a strategic framework \u2014 not just motivation.  \ud83c\udf99\ufe0f Part of the GovCon Giants \/ Federal Help Center podcast \u2014 daily episodes helping small businesses win federal contracts. Keywords: government contracting for beginners, how to get federal contracts, 8a certification, CMMC certification, SBA small business loans, subcontracting strategy, federal procurement, SAM.gov Episode chapters 0:00 Introduction \u2014 why mindset matters in govcon 0:54 What's the right reason to start a federal contracting business? 1:22 How to get your foot in the door with primes & agencies 2:41 Certifications that open doors \u2014 CMMC, IT, and construction 3:10 Why subcontracting is the fastest path to your first award 3:40 Building your training regimen \u2014 FAR, DFAR, LinkedIn 4:09 How security clearance sponsorship actually works 5:04 Networking vs. relationships \u2014 the real difference 5:59 Fractional support, SBA funding & contract vehicles 7:47 Building your community and finding mentors If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https:\/\/federalhelpcenter.com\/ https:\/\/federalhelpcenter.com\/ Website: https:\/\/govcongiants.org\/ Connect with Encore Funding: http:\/\/govcongiants.org\/funding ","author_name":"Govcon Giants Podcast","author_url":"https:\/\/govcongiants.com\/podcast\/","html":"