Small Business: Government & policy
Finding new clients requires new skills. Here's how to expand beyond your comfort zones.
From OLG
We have a small business with a number of federal government contracts. We would like to expand to the commercial arena, but have not been able to find a service or method that would provide market differentiation (other than offering lower costs than our bigger and better-known competitors). Would acquiring a firm offering a compatible "niche" be the best move for expansion? In terms of growing federal and perhaps state government sales, would hiring a "consultant" be wise? I am interested in hearing from business owners who have tried both methods. Thanks!
Ready to expand overseas? Here's a guide to the resources that can help you get started.
Peter Van Wolvelaerd, Scottsdale
My company has been doing business with the U.S. government, and we have been awarded some new business, in no small measure because of our service-disabled veteran-owned status. We have located business opportunities in Europe with the U.S. government and are trying to partner with a European company. Because we don’t have assets abroad it is very important we work with a local partner. My question is, what are the rules that the U.S. government has for companies when they partner with others? All of our local assets will have to come from our European partner.
If your business is in a target zone, don't miss out on the benefits.
Ros Borden, Miami
My wife and I own a convenience store in a federally designated enterprise zone. We have eight employees and we have owned the store for two years. We are struggling to stay afloat and to hold onto our employees. Can you get us information on how to use this designation to benefit us and our employees? I have already cashed out my retirement money. If we can’t get help, we’ll have to put eight people out on the street. Read more…
A new business structure sometimes requires a new tax ID.
Nasser Rentia, Falls Church, Va.
I am a sole proprietor and am considering forming an LLC. I currently have a tax ID as a sole proprietor. Do I need to get a new tax ID? The IRS requires a new tax ID when forming an S-Corp, but I wasn’t clear on their rules for forming an LLC. Read more…
A step-by-step guide to finding government contracts and going for them.
Brian Hall, Westerville, Ohio
I’m a veteran and a minority small-business owner. How do I get more information on bidding for government contracts?
Remember, success is in the details when it comes to bids and RFPs.
Paul Shelton, Tavares, Fla.
I need help writing contract proposals and contracts. Any advice or recommendations for software?
Toribio is postponing his decision on whether his business qualifies as a hobby. Have you recently made a distinction between business and hobby? What did you decide?
George Donker checked in with Ask FSB for tips on making his voice heard in DC. Do you participate in any lobbying efforts? Tell us about it.
Ann Fisher tells a reader how to obtain a trademark in a May 8 Ask FSB column. Have you trademarked an idea? Did you have an idea that was stolen before you were able to trademark it? Post your thoughts.
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