Why You're Invisible in GovCon (Even With Certifications)

In this episode, Eric Coffie lays out the tough truth about why so many small businesses stay stuck after getting certified. He calls out the excuses holding entrepreneurs back and shows what separates the winners from the watchers. From GSA schedules and sources sought to consulting partnerships and funded agency strategies, Eric gives a blueprint for creating your own success — even during uncertainty. He shares real examples, like a contractor who won eight out of ten recent projects as sole-source awards, and explains how consulting can generate income without any risk. This isn't about waiting for opportunities — it's about getting in the game, leveraging relationships, and taking ownership of your results. Key Takeaways: Stop waiting for contracts — create your own opportunities through sources sought and networking. Consulting can be your zero-risk gateway to re-enter the market and build deal flow. Agencies like the VA and GSA are still funding — the money hasn't stopped; only your action has. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Listen to the FULL Youtube Live here: https://youtube.com/live/CSj43yA6vcI  All the video links discussed. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEcjpP-CcDTdVggNyY1qsJUGECZNGZeW9luftdAS39U/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, Eric Coffie calls out the biggest myth in GovCon—that there aren't enough opportunities. He breaks down why lawyers, accountants, and even other small business owners already have the inside track on contracts, acquisitions, and partnerships—you're just not asking. From unused GSA schedules to overflow projects from busy contractors, Eric exposes how many deals are hiding in plain sight. The problem isn't access—it's action. If you're serious about teaming, scaling, and winning, this episode is your reminder to get out of your house, get in the room, and start talking to the people who already have what you want. Key Takeaways: Relationships with lawyers, accountants, and service providers = untapped deal flow. Many GSA schedule holders aren't using them—team up and put them to work. The biggest barrier isn't opportunity; it's your willingness to show up and ask. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Listen to the FULL Youtube Live here: https://youtube.com/live/CSj43yA6vcI  All the video links discussed. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEcjpP-CcDTdVggNyY1qsJUGECZNGZeW9luftdAS39U/edit?usp=sharing

In today's episode, Eric sits down with Mark Amtower, one of the most respected voices in the government contracting (GovCon) space. With over 18 years hosting on Federal News Radio and 17 years writing for Washington Technology, Mark shares timeless insights from his decades-long career helping companies master government marketing, branding, and networking. From the days of mailed newsletters in the '80s to the LinkedIn era, Mark explains how visibility, credibility, and consistency still drive business in the federal market. He also dives deep into the state of small businesses in 2025, why consolidation and shutdowns pose new threats, and what GovCon entrepreneurs must do now to adapt, brand smarter, and thrive. Mark also offers tactical tips on LinkedIn strategy—from optimizing your profile headline and banner to building influence through content, engagement, and authentic relationships. He reveals how only 1% of LinkedIn users post weekly, and why that tiny number creates a massive opportunity for those willing to show up, share expertise, and stand out. Key Takeaways: LinkedIn remains the #1 platform for B2B and B2G visibility—with nearly 3 million feds active on the platform. Small businesses face their toughest market in years—success now requires brand credibility and proactive strategy, not just certifications. Engagement beats perfection: meaningful posts and personal follow-ups convert better than flashy marketing. Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Mark's Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/markamtower Website: https://markamtower.net/  Mark's Podcast: https://federalnewsnetwork.com/shows/amtower-off-center-podcast/   Resources mentioned:  I'm on LinkedIn—Now What? by Jason Alba – Amazon listing: https://www.amazon.com/Im-Linkedin-Now-What-Fourth-Linkedin/dp/1600052541 Amazon The New Rules of Marketing & PR by David Meerman Scott – Publisher's page: https://www.davidmeermanscott.com/books/the-new-rules-of-marketing-and-pr

In this episode, Eric Coffie delivers a wake-up call to small business owners chasing government contracts but skipping the rooms that create them. He lays out proof: multimillion-dollar contractors, agency insiders, and program directors from NASA, DOD, SBA, and the Department of State have all shown up to help—yet most small businesses never do. Eric breaks down how relationships with lawyers, accountants, and service providers can open doors to major opportunities and why showing up is still the most underrated growth strategy in GovCon. Key Takeaways: Stop waiting for access—you're being invited and not showing up. Relationships with service providers = insider introductions. The real ROI is in the room, not in the replay. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Listen to the FULL Youtube Live here: https://youtube.com/live/CSj43yA6vcI  All the video links discussed. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEcjpP-CcDTdVggNyY1qsJUGECZNGZeW9luftdAS39U/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, Eric Coffie delivers a hard truth: government contracting has always been a relationship business—and the only reason most small businesses are missing out is because they're not showing up. Eric breaks down how power players build connections with decision-makers, why networking is non-negotiable, and how intentional events—not random parties—create million-dollar opportunities. He challenges listeners to stop doubting and start doing, because every contract starts with a conversation. Key Takeaways: Relationships drive results—your network is your pipeline. Show up where decisions are made; proximity creates opportunity. Doubt doesn't pay—action and visibility do. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Listen to the FULL Youtube Live here: https://youtube.com/live/CSj43yA6vcI  All the video links discussed. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEcjpP-CcDTdVggNyY1qsJUGECZNGZeW9luftdAS39U/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, Eric Coffie calls out the small business owners sitting on the sidelines while major primes like SAIC and KPMG openly ask for help. He shares real examples of entrepreneurs winning contracts by acting fast—like selling to prisons, joining state vendor pools, and teaming with larger firms. The truth? Opportunities are everywhere, but most people talk themselves out of trying. Key Takeaways: Big primes need small business partners—don't wait for an invite. Vendor pools and local contracts are hidden goldmines. The underdog wins by acting when everyone else hesitates. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Listen to the FULL Youtube Live here: https://youtube.com/live/CSj43yA6vcI  All the video links discussed. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEcjpP-CcDTdVggNyY1qsJUGECZNGZeW9luftdAS39U/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode of The Eric Coffie Show, Eric breaks down how small business owners can stay proactive and profitable—even during a government shutdown. He exposes the dangerous mindset of self-doubt that keeps entrepreneurs from acting and shows why focusing on funded agencies, tracking real contract data, and calling award winners are game-changing moves. Eric shares real examples from his own experience proving that contracts are still being awarded every day — and how persistence separates those who win from those who watch others win. Key Takeaways: Focus where the money flows: Target agencies that are still funded and awarding contracts despite shutdowns. Call award winners: Don't assume doors are closed — real outreach creates new opportunities. Fix your mindset: Stop telling yourself "they already have someone." Winners stay hungry, persistent, and visible. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Listen to the FULL Youtube Live here: https://youtube.com/live/CSj43yA6vcI  All the video links discussed. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zEcjpP-CcDTdVggNyY1qsJUGECZNGZeW9luftdAS39U/edit?usp=sharing

Today's guest, Robert Miller, brings a rare 360° GovCon perspective—15 years in government (Peace Corps → Capitol Hill → White House → CIA) followed by eight years in defense tech and AI sales. Rob led federal sales at Hawkeye 360 and CrowdAI (acquired in 2023) and now oversees $75M ARR across three divisions at a major defense contractor. In this episode, we break down how startups can truly win in federal: navigating product-market fit, cost-to-close, and working with large primes; using tools like SAM.gov, ARC, and Vulcan; and building mission-driven teams and Hill relationships. Rob also shares insights from his book Startup Statesmanship, a hands-on guide for founders entering GovCon. Key Takeaways Focus your ICP and go deep. Pick a tight segment + ideal customer profile and build depth (relationships, use-cases) before expanding. Master the economics. Rigor on cost-to-close and delivery—especially on firm-fixed-price R&D—wins or loses your margin in scoping. Protect your IP with primes. Use NDAs and teaming terms (workshare/rev-share), and share only what's necessary to win—not to be cloned. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/  Encore Funding: https://www.encore-funding.com/ 

In this thought-provoking episode, we tackle one of the biggest economic and societal shifts of our lifetime — artificial intelligence. The guest draws bold comparisons between AI and past revolutionary inventions like the steam engine and electricity, calling it a massive game changer that will reshape productivity, the job market, and even global wealth distribution. While AI promises innovation and lower costs, it also carries the risk of deepening inequality and triggering widespread job displacement, especially in the services sector. From coders to data scientists, the future belongs to those who can adapt, quantify, and forecast in an AI-driven world. Key Takeaways: AI's impact rivals past industrial revolutions. It's transforming productivity, costs, and economic structures faster than any previous technology. Winners and losers ahead. Expect deflationary effects, job losses in white-collar sectors, and widening inequality unless governments respond wisely. Future-proof skills matter. Strong math, coding, and data science capabilities will define who thrives in an AI-dominated economy. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/ 

In today's episode, we dive deep into leadership, legacy, and lessons from one of the Air Force's top decision-makers. Reflecting on his tenure, he shared the three major accomplishments that shaped the force's trajectory — from advancing modernization through $100 billion in operational imperatives to restructuring training and investment systems for great power competition. Perhaps most importantly, he instilled a sense of urgency across the Air and Space Forces — a mindset shift recognizing the need to move faster against near-peer threats like China. Yet, he also warns that current "efficiency" cuts and forced talent exits risk undoing progress, creating readiness gaps, and draining critical expertise when it's needed most. Key Takeaways: Modernization with purpose: Seven operational imperatives focused on resilience, technology, and modernization to strengthen U.S. readiness against China. Cultural transformation: Re-optimizing the Air Force for great power competition to improve agility, training, and decision-making. Leadership warning: Current waves of cuts and forced retirements threaten to weaken readiness and morale, undoing years of strategic progress. Join the Bootcamp: https://govcongiants.org/bootcamp Learn more: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ https://govcongiants.org/