Submitted by Thurston Economic Development Council | Center for Business & Innovation
Washington Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) has been one of the Center for Business & Innovation’s most successful programs in supporting businesses. PTAC helps businesses find, bid and win government contracts with the federal, state and local governments. Counselors in 9 locations around the state work with businesses one-on-one or through workshops on all aspects of doing business with the government. Each year, Washington PTAC assists an average of 1400 businesses throughout the state in pursuit of both local and federal government contracts. In the last two years. Those firms won nearly half a billion dollars in government contracts and subcontracts.
Just in Thurston County last year, 194 businesses were served and won $24 million in government contracts and subcontracts.
The success of the Thurston County PTAC office leads clients to create jobs and increase the tax revenues for the community that we serve.
PTAC also partners with other Center for Business & Innovation programs such as the Washington Center for Women in Business to give clients EXACTLY what they are looking for. Off Planet Research, a new research consortium here in Lacey has gain international success with NASA thanks to the assistance from PTAC and the WCWB.
On June 6, Washington PTAC is hosting its first Local Procurement Forum to encourage local small businesses to engage with government. This free event will feature a networking breakfast, panel discussion, and information tables from local government agencies.
The event will take place at the Thurston EDC Center for Business Innovation which is home to the Washington PTAC program. Washington PTAC will be bringing the purchasing representatives from the Thurston County area to one place to connect with local firms. Government agencies at this event include:
- City of Tumwater
- City of Olympia
- City of Lacey
- Thurston County
- Olympia Public Schools
- Port of Olympia
- South Puget Sound Community College
The Washington PTAC business counselors will be there as well to answer small business owners questions, including how to register, where to find solicitations, and how to get certified.
“We are delighted to offer an event that helps connect local government agencies to qualified firms from our region. It’ll be a great opportunity for everyone to learn from each other.” Commented Tiffany Scroggs, Washington PTAC Program Manager
Washington PTAC offers no-cost assistance to businesses throughout the state. Last year, businesses who worked with Washington PTAC won $300 million in government contracts and subcontracts.
For more information, visit the Washington PTAC website.
Featured photo credit: Martin Leon
