The (BIC), an accelerator program that has helped countless Black-owned and local businesses get off the ground, has announced the Federal Contracting Collaborative Accelerator (FCCA), a new accelerator program that launched on Feb. 24.聽
Participants in the FCCA will develop their skills in marketing intelligence and research, business development and client relationship management, capture and proposal management, project and subcontract management, teaming arrangements and legal strategies, and contract management and transition strategies.
The program has already garnered commitments from 18 8(a) firms.
鈥淭his initiative has the potential to significantly expand federal contracting opportunities for 8(a) certified firms, enhance their collaborations with HBCUs, and stimulate new economic growth in the communities surrounding the colleges and universities,鈥 said Jesse Buggs, chairman of the Bowie BIC Board of Directors. 鈥淲e鈥檙e confident this program will deliver measurable community development assets and long-term economic benefits, including potentially significant numbers of 21st century jobs, for the firms, HBCUs, and their respective communities.鈥
The center was recently ranked as the sixth best business incubator program in Maryland, and announced their 11th business cohort where 18 different businesses will further develop their skills. Further, BIC has assisted 1,789 entrepreneurs and welcomed over 200 participants into the previous 10 cohorts.
鈥淭he launch of the Federal Contracting Collaborative Accelerator is a groundbreaking initiative that reflects the mission of the Center of Excellence for 8(a) Government Contracting,鈥 said June Evans, BIC executive director. 鈥淲e are honored to partner with Bowie State University on this transformative endeavor, which will create lasting opportunities and catalyze impactful change in the federal procurement landscape.鈥
Aurora Technical Systems President Donna Ragins-Wright cited the 8(a) Accelerator Program as giving her 鈥渋nvaluable insights and resources that have helped her to navigate challenges and achieve success.
Read more about the Bowie Business Innovation Center here.