Navigating government contracts can be overwhelming, especially for small business owners. However, securing a City of Seattle contract can be a game-changer for business success. Becoming a contractor with the City of Seattle opens numerous opportunities for growth and community impact.
Many small businesses struggle to secure loans, lines of credit, or investments for growth and contracts. The lack of funding makes it difficult for entrepreneurs to scale their businesses, cover upfront costs, and bid on and compete for contracts. Furthermore, these businesses may need additional help understanding the bidding process, RFPs (Requests for Proposals), and contract specifications.
Business Impact NW partners with Tabor 100 and Washington APEX Accelerator to support small businesses, providing resources to help them grow through contracts with the City of Seattle.
Why Contract with The City of Seattle?
The City of Seattle is committed to fostering a viable business environment for small businesses, from procurement to contract awards. For small businesses contracting with the City, it provides a stable source of revenue while contributing to the local economy.
However, to successfully navigate the contracting process, business owners need a strong foundation in financial literacy, operational capacity, and knowledge of the basics of City contracting.
Small Business Support Through Business Impact NW
Business Impact NW is a vital resource to those interested in pursuing contracts with the City of Seattle. It offers a wide array of support for small businesses at every stage of growth. We provide workshops, classes, and tailored business coaching, covering marketing, financial management, and access to capital. This foundational knowledge is crucial for businesses looking to secure city contracts and be successful.
By partnering with Tabor 100 and Washington APEX Accelerators, we help businesses overcome specific challenges related to obtaining contracts in the following ways:
- Financial Management: Business Impact NW offers advice and training on business finances and accessing capital.
- Certifications and Bidding Assistance: With Tabor 100 and Washington APEX Accelerators, Business Impact NW helps small businesses gain a thorough understanding of City of Seattle contracts.
- Networking and Operations: Business Impact NW provides opportunities for small businesses to connect with peers and mentors through events, workshops, and training programs. We create spaces for entrepreneurs to engage with each other, share experiences, and build supportive connections within the business community.
Capital Readiness Program
Securing City of Seattle contracts requires financial stability and capacity. The Capital Readiness Program at Business Impact NW offers tailored business advice and business financial training to small businesses. We help entrepreneurs gain the knowledge and financing needed to grow their businesses. Businesses can work with a certified advisor, at no charge, to review their finances and ensure they have the working capital needed to bid on City contracts (RFP or RFQ) and complete a government contract successfully.
The program helps increase opportunities for funding by providing business coaching, credit counseling, loan application preparation, and connections to lenders. With hubs in Tukwila, WA, and the Portland Metro Area, Business Impact NW supports entrepreneurs throughout the region.
Contract Preparation
Through partnerships with programs like the APEX Accelerators and the City of Seattle’s initiatives, Business Impact NW assists entrepreneurs to prepare their businesses for the contracting processes. This preparation includes getting registered with the City, understanding bid documents, and mastering the submission process. Business Impact NW’s guidance helps to demystify the contracting and consulting procedures, enhancing opportunities and profitability.
Ready To Get Started?
Are you ready to jump into the world of contracting with the City of Seattle? Visit our City of Seattle Contracting page for more information. Business Impact NW supports you through financial preparation, business coaching, networking, and partnership with our collaborators. Together, we can support your company’s potential and help scale your business to success in government contracting.
For more information about contracting with the City of Seattle, click here.
About the author
Emma Seymour is a Communications and Public Relations professional specializing in storytelling, relationship building, and content development. A military spouse and former small business owner, she advocates for veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses, and has delivered keynote speeches on workforce development, military programs, and childhood trauma.