Start-Up of the Week: The Federal Contractor Network
Mar 31st, 2009 by admin
With the economic stimulus passed, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of government-funded projects. That’s why our featured start-up is not only an awesome business concept, but also a great outlet for those looking to do business with federal contractors or the federal government itself. Check out The Federal Contractor Network (TFCN) - a one-of-a-kind social networking site for Federal Contractors, service providers, manufacturers and government employees working in the United States and overseas. Here’s more from founder, Alexander George:
Please tell us about your start-up TFCN. What makes it unique? And how does it fit into the marketplace?
AG: TFCN is the only social/professional network for Federal Contractors. That in itself makes this site unique. There are many social networks dedicated to Federal Government employees, but none for Federal Contractors. TFCN fills that void.
How do you promote a business such as this? And who are your target markets?
AG: It is a mix of ways of course. I’ve been very active in the contracting community over the years, and I have a large personal network I rely on. I have also been very active on LinkedIn (2,000 connections) and I utilized LinkedIn to get the word out. Lastly, TFCN is in early stage of going viral, and that is becoming the primary way of getting the word out.
Did you write a business plan? How did you fund the launch of your business? Are you currently seeking investment?
AG: I did not finalize the business plan yet in part because there is no established model to go by. Even Facebook and LinkedIn are struggling with this.
Is this your first start-up venture? What other businesses have you been involved with?
AG: I own and run Intrusion Stoppers, Inc. Intrusion Stoppers is a micro-business (three employees) specializing in cyber security consulting services.
What resources have you utilized for start-up assistance and advice (both on and offline)?
AG: Mostly Google search :).
If you had to start all over again, what are some things you would do differently?
AG: So far I really can’t think of any, but check back with me in a few months. I’m sure I’ll have something to add to this section.
The Federal Contractor Network was recently profiled on Federal News Radio, Ning, Examiner, American Towns and CheezHead.
Breaking into the government marketplace can be a daunting task, but not impossible. There are many resources available to companies such as government offices (SBA, GSA, OSDBU offices), non-profits (ASBC.org & WIPP.org) and private organizations (JenniferSchaus.com).
To learn more about how businesses can gain a competitve advantage, please visit the Public Spend blog on http://www.PublicSpend.com/Blog
Jennifer Schaus
Jennifer Schaus & Associates
Washington, DC
http://www.JenniferSchaus.com
JSchaus@JenniferSchaus.com
2 0 2 - 3 6 5 - 0 5 9 8
More good news for GSA Schedule Holders:
GovExec writes about “States, localities could get access to GSA schedules for stimulus spending” (http://www.govexec.com/dailyfed/0409/042909rb1.htm)
Learn more about GSA Schedules:
http://www.JenniferSchaus.com
and a Guest Post on Winning Stimulus Contracts:
http://www.PublicSpend.com/Blog
Again, it is not impossible for the new-comers to gain access to federal, state or local government dollars - be it stimulus funding or standard contracts (or grants). If your company is in the B2G game for the long run (the smartest investment in this market) then now is as good of a time as any.
http://JenniferSchaus-b2g.blogspot.com
Jennifer Schaus
Jennifer Schaus & Associates
Washington, DC
http://www.JenniferSchaus.com
JSchaus@JenniferSchaus.com
2 0 2 - 3 6 5 - 0 5 9 8
Again, it is not impossible for the new-comers to gain access to federal, state or local government dollars - be it stimulus funding or standard contracts (or grants). If your company is in the B2G game for the long run (the smartest investment in this market) then now is as good of a time as any.
http://JenniferSchaus-b2g.blogspot.com
Jennifer Schaus
Jennifer Schaus & Associates
Washington, DC
http://www.JenniferSchaus.com