HCRS Joins SBA Small Business Conference to Support Veteran-Owned Businesses

The recent American Legion-Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Conference, held on February 21 in Washington, D.C., brought together experts and industry leaders dedicated to strengthening veteran-owned businesses. Attendees included current and prospective business owners who gained valuable insights on securing financing, navigating challenges, and choosing the best business structures for their success.

A major focus of the conference was the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP), a program that has helped veteran entrepreneurs secure billions of dollars in government contracts. The VIP program provides essential training at no cost to participants, ensuring veteran-owned businesses can successfully navigate the complexities of federal procurement. With over 3,000 graduates spanning all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam, VIP has played a pivotal role in securing $39.1 billion in federal prime contract awards and nearly $13 billion in subcontracts since 2010.

The event also emphasized the importance of compliance in government contracting, a topic championed by Brenda Doles, President of HealthCare Resolution Services, Inc. (HCRS). Doles provided an in-depth overview of key requirements and the severe consequences of noncompliance for businesses operating under the framework of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). As government regulations continue to evolve, understanding these obligations is crucial to maintain contracts and avoid costly penalties.

The Keys to Federal Contracting Success

Speakers throughout the SBA Small Business Conference reinforced several key strategies for winning and maintaining federal contracts. VIP National Director Barbara Ashe emphasized that mastering government procurement can also open doors to local, state, and private sector contracts. She advised businesses to stay updated on changing regulations, to continually seek professional development, and to understand their competition.

Another crucial takeaway was the importance of mentorship and seeking expert guidance. Ashe encouraged business owners to find advisors and coaches who could help them avoid costly mistakes. Learning from experienced professionals, such as those in the VIP program, helps businesses operate more efficiently and minimize risks that could delay contract awards.

Addressing Challenges for Veteran Entrepreneurs

A panel of veteran business owners shared personal experiences navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Erica Dobbs, a retired U.S. Navy veteran and CEO of Dobbs Defense Solutions, LLC, discussed the unique obstacles faced by female veteran entrepreneurs. Despite being highly qualified, she faced discrimination in securing capital and contracts simply because of her gender.

Other business owners shared insights on breaking into difficult industries, such as defense technology and ballistics, and managing business growth during unexpected challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Army veteran R.J. Blake, President and CEO of the Blake Willson Group, emphasized that running a small business is an ongoing battle — just when one challenge is overcome, another arises.

SBA and Legislative Support for Veteran-Owned Businesses

Government agencies continue to expand resources for veteran entrepreneurs. Larry Stubblefield, Deputy Associate Administrator at the SBA Office of Government Contracting and Business Development, discussed the rapid expansion of Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs). 

SBA representatives also introduced the MySBA Certifications Platform, a unified system designed to simplify the process of applying for federal contracting certifications. In the past, businesses had to submit applications across multiple platforms, while the new system consolidates everything into a single portal to reduce administrative burdens.

Other discussions focused on alternative strategies for entering the government contracting space. SBA’s Director of Government Contracting, Francine H. Morris, encouraged business owners to explore subcontracting opportunities before pursuing prime contracts. 

Looking Ahead: Expanding Opportunities for Veteran Entrepreneurs

The conference closed with discussions on expanding resources and policy changes to further support veteran-owned businesses. The American Legion’s Small Business Task Force Chairman, Charles Fowler, shared ongoing legislative efforts to expand the Vets First Contracting Program beyond the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) into the Department of Defense (DoD). If implemented, this initiative would create new opportunities for service-disabled, veteran-owned small businesses to compete for lucrative DoD contracts.

HealthCare Resolution Services’ Commitment to Compliance and Business Success

As government regulations become more stringent, compliance remains a top priority for businesses in cybersecurity and health care. Brenda Doles provided attendees with a high-level overview of what compliance with federal regulations really means for small to medium-sized businesses. She outlined the risks companies face if they fail to meet these standards, including the loss of contracts, financial penalties, and damaged reputations.

For businesses operating in regulated industries, HCRS offers expert guidance to navigate these types of compliance challenges. With decades of experience in cybersecurity, data management, risk assessments, and government contracting, it remains a key supporter of SMBs and their long-term success.

Strengthening Veteran-Owned Businesses Through Collaboration

The American Legion-SBA Small Business Conference reinforced the growing number of resources available to veteran entrepreneurs. From VIP’s no-cost procurement training to SBA’s expanded outreach centers and new certification platform, businesses now have more tools than ever to succeed in federal contracting.

For those looking to enhance their contracting capabilities and ensure compliance, HCRS is ready to assist. Contact us today to learn how we can support your continued growth and success.