APEX Accelerator at The Joseph Center - Rockford Satellite Office


Navigating Government Contracts for Your Small Business

The Federal government is the largest buyer of goods and services in the world. There are government contracting opportunities available for businesses that provide a wide range of goods and services.

The Illinois APEX Accelerator provides no-cost assistance to help your business identify, prepare for, and submit competitive bids for local, state, and federal contracting opportunities.

Region 1 Planning Council is a satellite office of the Illinois APEX Accelerator at The Joseph Center. We help small businesses in the Northern Illinois region navigate the complexities of government procurement and position themselves for growth.

When you schedule a consultation with one of our advisors, we can help you:

  • Develop a marketing strategy to identify and target government contracting opportunities that align with your business.
  • Complete required quality and compliance certifications so your business is prepared to work with government agencies.
  • Earn relevant credentials that can help your business stand out from the competition.

All services are confidential and provided at no cost.


Who We Serve

We serve small businesses in Winnebago, Boone, McHenry, Stephenson, Ogle, and DeKalb counties.
 
Not located in one of these counties?
Find an APEX Accelerator near you.
 
Not sure if you’re a small business? We will help you determine if you’re eligible.

APEX Eligible Counties: Winnebago, Boone, McHenry, Stephenson, Ogle, and Dekalb.

Resources

North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS)

PSC

A Product or Service Code (PSC) is a 4-character code that identifies the type of product, service, or research & development (R&D) purchased. While NAICS codes identify the industry most relevant to a contract, PSCs tell you what the contract is specifically purchasing.

Market Research

SAM.gov Registration

SAM.gov Opportunities

SBA Certifications

General Info

Application

Subcontracting

Federal Agency OSBP

Cybersecurity

Education & Training Opportunities

Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) / Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR)

Tutorials


The Illinois APEX Accelerator at The Joseph Center – Rockford Satellite Office is provided through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense (DoD). Program support is made possible by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), The Joseph Center, and Region 1 Planning Council.