From the Desk of the Small Business Committee, January 2025
Small businesses are vital to AFCEA International, representing 60% of its membership and driving essential innovation across the defense industrial base. Under the leadership of this year’s chair, Tom Perry, and co-chair, Will Swann, the Small Business Committee (SBC) continues to provide valuable resources and events that address the unique challenges facing small business members in the government contractor (GovCon) sector.
As highlighted by federal agencies and the Small Business Administration, small businesses are critical for introducing new solutions, contributing significantly to the nation’s technological edge in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, intelligence, national security and communications.
This year, the SBC will amplify its community’s innovative efforts through a new white paper series, showcasing pioneer solutions from its members. The SBC’s tradition of offering expert-led programs remains strong, with last year’s lineup including Hillary Boyce from BAFO Services LLC, who discussed proposal evaluation trends, and Katherine B. Burrows of PilieroMazza PLLC, who shared essential bid protest guidance. Other speakers, such as Brian Friel from BD Squared, Alexander Cohen from GovPro AI and Tan Wilson of Entellect LLC, provided crucial strategies for success in GovCon bids.
Looking forward, Perry and Swann aim to build on this foundation, introducing additional speakers and targeted resources to meet member needs. The newly created Outreach Committee will also enhance event offerings, such as last year’s successful Small Business Innovation Roundtable held at AFCEA TechNet Augusta. Leading off this year with a small business panel at TechNet Indo-Pacific, the SBC is committed to bringing members even more engaging, in-person events throughout the year.
The SBC remains committed to helping its members navigate GovCon complexities and maximize their impact. If you’re not yet a member, now is a great time to join!
Each month, SIGNAL Magazine publishes a feature in the Committee Corner to highlight news you can us from AFCEA’s committees. Committee leaders should submit entries to Sandra Jontz.
