Likewise, mentors in the Small Business Administration (SBA)'s mentor-protégé program have access to some contracts that they otherwise might not be eligible for. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency may award points in the technical evaluation criteria of participating mentors' proposals. In some instances, being a mentor may increase the odds of winning a government contract. In most instances, no direct compensation is given to the mentor, although the Department of Defense and some other federal agencies offering mentor-protégé programs do provide participating mentors with reimbursement of program expenses or credits toward subcontracting goals. In turn, a mentor helps shape a business that could serve as a subcontractor in the future. This could involve teaching you about business planning and management, suggesting ways to improve manufacturing operations, providing counsel in staff management issues or making introductions to the right business contacts. Networking with the right people is integral to securing government contracts, and a mentor can help you navigate government agencies and influence decisions in this highly bureaucratic process.Ī mentor acts as a trusted counselor, providing technical, managerial, financial or other guidance. After all, being registered as a contractor isn't enough to win government business. For example, the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority provides low income housing tax credits to pair emerging minority and women developers with established developers who provide business development and training.įor many, the mentoring experience helps prepare protégés to become viable government suppliers. In a few instances, mentors are eligible for generous tax credits. A mentor can provide financial assistance through loans, investment in the protégé firm or, in some cases, rent-free use of facilities or equipment. As a protégé, you can gain invaluable guidance and support to make your company stronger. Numerous mentor programs are available to foster sustainable business development, particularly for disadvantaged or women- or minority-owned businesses. Teaming is more about complementary businesses that form a partnership to fulfill a government contract. Mentor-protégé programs are different from teaming arrangements.
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