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AFGSC offers opportunities for small businesses

  • Published
  • By Carla Pampe
  • Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  When most people think of companies that do business with the government, they're likely to think of large defense contractors.

However, Air Force Global Strike Command, like other commands in the Air Force, has a Small Business Office designed to ensure that small businesses also have the opportunity to bid on government contracts.

"Small Businesses are the backbone of this country," said Anita Jackson, director of small business for AFGSC. "There are 28 million small businesses and only 18,000 large ones."

Jackson said the government works to help small businesses because the government runs on taxpayer dollars.

"It only makes sense to help those who are paying the bills," she said.

Jackson recently attended the Small Business Summit in Shreveport, La., which brought together government agencies, small businesses and large ones for possible teaming arrangements. She said there are a number of opportunities for contracts with AFGSC, which are advertised through the Federal Business Opportunities website.

"All government agencies advertise their contract opportunities in one place: www.fbo.gov," Jackson said. "This website is the 'gateway to the government,' meaning that all contractors will go there first to see what is being advertised at any government agency."

Over the years, Jackson has changed her views on the small business program.

"I've learned a lot in the two years I've been working this program," she said, "mostly to respect those who are out there working hard to create a successful business."

In addition, Jackson said the government gets a good value from working with small businesses because they generally have less overhead as compared to a large business, adding, "Small businesses work hard to please their customers, and they will ensure the government receives a good product or service."

For more information on the AFGSC Small Business program, contact Anita Jackson at 318-456-1603.