Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)
The Government Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) helps new and established regional businesses create and retain jobs by increasing sales of goods and services to the local, state and federal governments.
This free service helps local businesses assess their marketing potential and develop strategies for securing a share of lucrative government markets.
SAP&DC’s PTAC provides a wide range of assistance to businesses with one-on-one counseling sessions, classes, seminars and matchmaking events.
Determining Suitability for Contracting
The government marketplace can overwhelm or even ruin a company that lacks the maturity or resources to meet its unique challenges. A PTAC counselor can help you determine if your company is ready for government opportunities and how to best position yourself for success.
Securing Necessary Registrations
Your PTAC can help ensure that you are registered with the databases needed for participation in the government marketplace, including the Department of Defense's Central Contractor Registration (CCR), the SBA's PRO-Net, and other government vendor databases.
DB, 8(a), HUBzone and Other Certifications
Certain small businesses are eligible for preferred status in some government solicitations. A PTAC counselor can help determine if your company is eligible for these certifications and guide you through the steps needed to secure them.
Researching Procurement Histories
What agencies have bought products like yours in the past? Which companies have been awarded these contracts? How much have they been paid?
Your PTAC can help you ask the right questions and get the right answers to guide your marketing strategy and give you a competitive edge.
Networking
Most PTACs sponsor regular "matchmaking" events to identify critical opportunities for connecting with agency buying officers, prime contractors and other businesses for partnership or subcontracting.
Identifying Bid Opportunities
A PTAC can make sure that you are notified -- on a daily basis -- of all government contract opportunities on which your company is eligible to bid.
Proposal Preparation
A procurement specialist can help you navigate even the most difficult solicitation package, including securing necessary specifications and drawings and determining pricing. You never need to miss a great contract opportunity because the solicitation is too complicated.
Contract Performance Issues
After you've been awarded a contract, your PTAC may be able to help with certain performance issues, such as:
- negotiating and interfacing with the agency
- developing a cost-accounting system
- bonding and interim financing
- developing environmental, quality control and accident prevention plans.
Preparing for Audit
When it’s time for your contract audit, your PTAC can make sure you know what to expect and prepare you so that you have all of the necessary documents in order.