By Deanna Langman

Statewide Director, MT PTAC

It goes without saying that most businesses are constantly on the lookout for new customers. Where are these new customers and how do companies find them? Of course, there is more than one answer to that question but, one possibility might be government agencies. Perhaps you think that government agencies would never purchase from your company because it’s too small? Think again. Each year, government agencies purchase millions from Montana companies, mostly small businesses.

You may be surprised at the wide array of products and services that are purchased by the government. For example, the State of Montana is currently seeking everything from asbestos inspections to lien services to batteries! In Montana, the federal government has 359 active opportunities for everything from lunches to a helicopter to geographic modeling services! There are opportunities at the federal, state and local level that range in size and complexity.

Selling to the government can offer exciting expansion and growth opportunities for companies that are suitably positioned and up to the challenge. To be successful in this marketplace, you must learn how. But don’t worry, PTAC advisors can teach you!

The Montana Procurement Technical Assistance Center (MT PTAC) provides personal, timely advice on contracting with the government. Our advisors specialize in assisting businesses with finding, bidding and winning government contracts.

And the best part, PTAC assistance is provided to MT companies at no charge, really! PTACs are funded in part by Defense Logistics Agency and are in every state. https://www.dla.mil/SmallBusiness/PTAP/ In Montana, we have seven locations.

Our team can assist you in determining whether government contracting is right for your company and advise you on how to navigate this complex marketplace. To learn more about how PTAC can assist your company and to contact an advisor in your area, please visit http://www.montanaptac.org or call me at 406-869-8410.