Vermont business contracts with government agencies are on an upswing.
In Fiscal Year 2014, Vermont companies landed 519 government contracts at the local, state and federal levels. That’s nearly a threefold increase over FY12, and a 25 percent rise from FY13, according to the Vermont Procurement Technical Assistance Center, a division of the state’s Agency of Commerce and Community Development.
PTAC helps businesses navigate the complex requirements associated with government contracting. Director Robin Miller wants Vermont business owners and managers to know the bids are open to companies of all sizes that make everything from handmade flutes to clothing to spare parts for military aircraft and ships.
Several recent contracts were awarded to Vermont firms with fewer than 10 employees, she said.
“In fact, the federal government requires that 23% of all contracts must be awarded to small businesses and that’s why we are here,” Miller said.
Holly Richardson, a co-owner of Barton-based sales and consulting firm Amerivet Sales and Service, credited PTAC’s staff with her company’s success in government bids.
PTAC will host a Northeast Regional Small Business Training and Matchmaking Event in May 2015 at Manchester’s Equinox hotel. This event is designed to give Vermont companies a chance to meet with purchasing agents from all levels of government, as well as prime contractors throughout the region.
