NAVIGATING THE WORLD of government contracting can be overwhelming for small businesses, but the North Olympic Peninsula APEX Accelerator is here to help. This no-cost program provides expert guidance and support to businesses in Clallam and Jefferson counties that want to sell their products or services to government agencies.
APEX counselors help businesses in a wide array of services. From assisting with registrations or certifications, to understanding how to respond to a request for proposal or just finding the opportunities, APEX equips businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to compete and succeed in the government marketplace.
Government agencies at all levels purchase an incredibly wide range of goods and services, from construction and IT to janitorial work, landscaping, catering and more. The federal government alone awards hundreds of billions of dollars in contracts annually, with a substantial portion set aside specifically for small businesses. The APEX Accelerator helps local companies position themselves to access these opportunities and expand into new markets.
Real impact in our region
The North Olympic Peninsula APEX Accelerator has already made a measurable difference in our local economy. In the most recent program year, more than 60 businesses received personalized advising and support. These businesses reported more than $13 million in government contract awards, bringing substantial revenue back into the region.
In addition, the program hosted or co-hosted 26 training events, reaching more than 100 participants with actionable tools and insights to help them pursue and win contracts.
These numbers reflect more than just activity; they demonstrate real business growth, increased job opportunities and a stronger economic foundation for our rural communities.
What APEX helps with
APEX Accelerators are designed to simplify and support every stage of the government contracting process. Services include assistance with registrations such as SAM.gov and obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), identifying contract opportunities and reviewing solicitations.
Advisors also help businesses apply for small business certifications, such as women-owned, veteran-owned and HUBZone designations, and develop strategies to improve competitiveness and long-term success in the government market.
This APEX Accelerator is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense; therefore, all services are confidential and provided at no cost, making it a valuable resource for both new and established businesses looking to expand.
Why it matters
Many small businesses don’t realize just how many government contracting opportunities exist, or they assume the process is too complicated to pursue. The APEX program helps remove those barriers, making the process more accessible and achievable. When local businesses secure contracts, the benefits ripple throughout the community, supporting local jobs, strengthening supply chains and boosting regional economic stability.
Get connected
Whether you’re exploring government contracting for the first time or looking to improve your current efforts, the APEX Accelerator is ready to help. Businesses in Clallam and Jefferson counties can schedule one-on-one advising sessions, attend free workshops and get connected to resources that support success.
To learn more, visit APEX Accelerator — Clallam Economic Development Council, or reach out to the Clallam County Economic Development Council.
The North Olympic APEX Accelerator is working every day to connect local businesses with real opportunities, helping them grow stronger, smarter and more competitive in a fast-changing economy.
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Justine Wagner is the Interim Program Manager for the North Olympic Peninsula APEX Accelerator program, Clallam County Economic Development Council.
