Introduction to Federal Contracting | Houston Center SBDC

This session is designed to help small businesses feel confident about stepping into the federal marketplace. We’ll walk through the essential first steps to getting started in federal contracting, how to find real opportunities, and how SBA certification programs can give your business a competitive edge. You’ll also learn about practical tools and trusted resources that can guide you through the federal procurement process and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Highlights:

• How to get started with federal contracting
• Benefits of federal contracting
• Identifying contract opportunities
• SBA certification programs
• Available resources

This session is intended for business owners, entrepreneurs, and business development professionals who are new to federal contracting or considering expanding into the government marketplace.

Speakers:

      Ida Benson, Business Opportunity Specialist, SBA, Houston District Office
      Jesus Gomez, Business Opportunity Specialist, SBA, Houston District Office

Ida Benson has more than 20 years of experience with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), helping small businesses understand federal certifications, contracting opportunities, and SBA programs. As a Business Opportunity Specialist in the SBA Houston District Office, she provides training, outreach, and guidance to connect small businesses with government contracting opportunities.

Jesus Gomez is a Business Opportunity Specialist with the U.S. Small Business Administration's Houston District Office, bringing more than 25 years of experience in business banking and small business consulting. He helps 8(a)-certified firms and small businesses with compliance, business development, marketing, financial analysis, and government contracting opportunities.

It is imperative to add centeric@ic.sbdc.uhbauer.org to your approved senders' list to be able to receive event confirmations and links.

Please Note:

• Each person attending an event must have their own account. Multiple people may not register under one account.
• The SBDC reserves the right to cancel a class for insufficient enrollment, weather emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances. Should a cancellation occur, we will use the email you provided to contact you.
• Preregistration is highly recommended. If an event is canceled or postponed and you have not preregistered, we will not be able to contact you.
• If you choose to register at the door, you will need your mobile device to complete your registration otherwise you will not be allowed to attend.
• Satisfactory meeting room temperatures are difficult to maintain. Always bring a sweater or jacket to ensure comfort.
• No children under the age of 16 are allowed in the workshop.
• Only service animals allowed - If you need to bring a service animal with you to a workshop please contact us ahead of time.
• Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the UH SBDC at (713) 752-8488 for accommodations, or if you have questions about this class.