All SWCO PTAC services are free of charge. The only thing we ever charge for are our events and workshops. Even our daily BidMatch Notification system is at no cost.

All new SWCO PTAC clients must first attend a SWCO PTAC New Client Orientation and Networking Event, complete and submit all new client paperwork, have all necessary registrations completed so a SWCO PTAC Procurement counselor can process their paperwork and create their client file before a counseling session can be scheduled. This is necessary so we can process and assist all new clients in as timely a fashion as possible.

No. Our services will help you complete registration, improve your bids, and locate opportunities, but we cannot guarantee your business will receive contracts. We are a resource for education, inspiration, and collaboration as you work to gain government contract business.

No. SWCO PTAC will work with you as you create your proposal and will review your bid for accuracy and search for areas of improvement but we do not create or write your proposals.

No. SWCO PTAC does not award government contracts, nor do we have influence with the decision-making process. We assist companies with developing their program to do business with the government, developing bids, and locating opportunities.

Working for the government requires dedication of resources to ensure compliance. Additionally, government agencies may consider your ability to perform work when bidding on projects. The government does not pay for contracts in advance, so companies will require the necessary cash flow to finance ongoing projects.

There are several ways to gain experience with the government.

1. Subcontracting to a prime contractor. This establishes a work-history, which may be used for future prime contracts.
2. Bidding on small contracts, which may not require history with the government.
3. Credit-card selling of small items to the government.

A good analogy is to compare your business dealings with the government as you would any other potential revenue stream. You will be required to contribute a modest amount of effort to the initial paperwork and registration, reviewing opportunities, and creation of bids. When successful, the benefits of participating frequently make the effort worthwhile, with long-term contracts and payment guarantees as results.

No. The Small Business Administration - a separate entity - is responsible for the certification of businesses. We work closely with the SBA in many areas and can direct you to the appropriate personnel at the SBA.