EDC Planning Government Contracting Academy for Established Local Businesses

The Del Rio Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is on the move as it plans to launch a Government Contracting Academy with Prairie View A&M University, aimed at helping established local businesses become more competitive for government contracting opportunities.

According to plans currently being developed, the academy would provide local business owners with the knowledge and resources needed to pursue local, state and federal government contracts.

The initiative is expected to begin with a Government Contracting 101 class scheduled for Monday, August 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Spark Lab, 101 W. Ogden St.

Following the introductory class, a select group of established businesses—not startups—would be chosen to participate in the academy. Organizers are planning for the program to focus on businesses that are already operating and are ready to expand into government contracting. With an anticipated graduation date of October 1^st,  the proposed academy would consist of eight sessions covering topics designed to prepare participants for the government procurement process, including:

• Business planning
• Financial readiness
• Access to alternative capital
• Supplier development
• Working with procurement officers
• Bid writing and proposal development

The goal of the academy is to equip local businesses with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to compete for government contract opportunities while strengthening Del Rio’s business community.

Additional information, including eligibility requirements and application details for businesses interested in the academy, is expected to be released by the Del Rio Economic Development Corporation as plans are finalized.