SDVOSB Wins Big on Multiple-Award IDIQ
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Dr. Thomas Chan, CEO of Tetra Fields LLC, has successfully navigated the complex world of government contracting through persistence, strategic networking, and leveraging expert guidance. A service-disabled veteran, Dr. Chan co-founded Tetra Fields in 2020 with a focus on IT and management consulting in the healthcare sector. His company secured a significant role as part of Team Leidos in the Veterans Affairs Accelerating VA Innovation and Learning (AVAIL) contract, a $650 million multiple-award IDIQ. This achievement underscores his ability to identify opportunities by researching federal agency needs and strategically positioning his business to meet them.
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Like many small businesses entering the government contracting space, Dr. Chan faced substantial obstacles, including the daunting learning curve of federal procurement processes and the challenge of gaining recognition in a competitive industry. He credits the APEX Accelerator with playing a vital role in his success, helping him stay focused and providing crucial guidance along the way. "It's not easy for new businesses, and most of them will fail," he shared. "During those moments, you have to hold strong to a mentality that failure isn’t an option and back that up with actions." Through his counselor's support, he was able to refine his strategy, build key relationships, and persist through early setbacks.
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Dr. Chan’s advice for other small businesses looking to break into government contracting is to be relentless in networking and relationship-building. He emphasized the importance of engaging with small business specialists, consistently attending events, and demonstrating a deep understanding of agency needs. "At first, they won’t recognize you," he said, "but as you keep showing up, you build trust, and that’s how you get opportunities." His story highlights the power of perseverance, the value of expert guidance, and the importance of strategic positioning in securing government contracts.
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Listen to his story at the 34 minute mark on our podcast
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