Join me, Rick Howard (Lt Col, Ret.), as I break down everything you need to know about government contracts for small businesses, from what they are, how to find them, and the secrets to winning. Learn how to leverage set-asides, certifications, and market research to position your business or career in this lucrative space. Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification In the GovClose Certification Program our students learn the government contracting skills to:St...
Jul 16, 2025•1 hr 9 min
In this episode, former U.S. Air Force acquisitions officer Rick Howard walks you through a powerful strategy for uncovering pre-solicitation government contract opportunities without ever using SAM.gov. If you're relying solely on SAM, you're already behind. Rick dives into how to use Acquisition Forecasts , navigate agency procurement portals , and leverage industry days , attendee lists , and contracting office contacts to build a government sales pipeline that extends 3+ years into the futur...
Jul 07, 2025•1 hr 21 min
We're answering all the questions people are asking about GSA. We cover: GSA Advantage, GSA rates and GSA labor rates, e-library GSA, what is GSA? We give you the history, talk about GSA schedules, and how to apply for the schedules. Learn from GSA government officials that I have interviewed and what the GSA catalog looks like. Learn how to shape deals, work directly with federal agencies, and master category-driven acquisition.👉 https://www.govclose.com But GSA is often misunderstood.Is it a ...
Jun 30, 2025•59 min
GSA just changed the game. On May 28th, a letter went out to major value-added resellers—and it wasn’t good news for the middlemen. The government is moving toward direct deals with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and that means major changes are coming for federal sales.Train with UsLearn how to shape deals, work directly with federal agencies, and master category-driven acquisition.👉 https://www.govclose.comIn this video, I break down:⏱ Timestamps00:00 – GSA’s New Strategy: Middlemen...
Jun 16, 2025•9 min
Want to know how real small businesses actually win government contracts? In this live session, I’ll reverse engineer the exact moves one federal contractor made to break into the market—and how you can apply the same strategy. We’re not just talking theory. You’ll see: How to find and study real contract award data The key actions that led to their first wins What they did differently that made all the difference If you’re serious about building a GovCon strategy that works, this is the bluepri...
Jun 11, 2025•49 min
Establishing a #linkedin profile that builds credibility and trust in the government contracting community os essential!! Former DoD Program Manager Rick Howard reveals his 3-step LinkedIn system used by 175+ GovClose students to build trust, attract federal buyers, and grow revenue—without spamming anyone.Learn more at: https://www.govclose.comFree Training & Certification Info: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book: https://www.dodcontract.com/ ⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Why Mos...
Jun 04, 2025•38 min
How to Win Government Contracts: Federal Sales Blueprint That Even a 10-Year-Old Can Master (My Kid Did!)"This is the blueprint for winning government contracts" - Former Air Force Lt Col Richard Howard breaks down the exact 4-step federal sales process he used to manage $82 BILLION in contracts. So simple, he taught his own 10-year-old (and his 6-year-old knows the secret too).Stop responding to RFPs blind. Learn to reverse engineer the process, influence opportunities BEFORE they go public, an...
May 28, 2025•9 min
Before you spend another dollar on third-party GovCon tools, watch this. SAM.gov has powerful built-in features that most people ignore—but they can completely change how you find and win federal contracts. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through 3 hidden features in SAM.gov that will: • Automate your market research• Save your searches • Send you real-time alerts Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/ Get the...
May 21, 2025•11 min
If you're submitting government proposals in 2025, this Government Contract Proposal Checklist could be the difference between winning and losing. In this exclusive interview, GovClose graduate Desmond Daniels breaks down the 5 biggest mistakes companies make on federal RFPs — and how to avoid them. Whether you're new to government contracting or looking to sharpen your proposal writing strategy, this checklist is your secret weapon. #GovernmentContracts #ProposalChecklist #FederalRFP #rfp Get M...
May 16, 2025•33 min
Most people think the only way to get a government contracting job is by applying online. But that’s exactly why they never hear back.In this video, former DoD acquisitions officer Richard C. Howard reveals a step-by-step strategy for how to get a government contracting job in 2025 — without filling out a single application. Get My Free Training On How to start a GovCon Consulting Business: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification This is the exact process GovClose students use to land high-...
May 14, 2025•14 min
GovClose is the fastest way to break into federal sales — or scale it. Whether you're starting out or already selling, our certification gives you the system, tools, and training to win contracts now.Start here: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification The federal government is about to enforce CMMC at scale, and most businesses aren't ready. In this episode, I sit down with Jacob Hill, one of the most trusted experts in CMMC, cybersecurity compliance, and federal regulations, to break dow...
May 07, 2025•53 min
Start a remote consulting business: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certificationIn this video, we break down step-by-step how veterans and transitioning service members can build remote careers, consulting businesses, and financial freedom after leaving active duty. Learn from Marine Corps veteran and entrepreneur David Pere --he shares real lessons for creating location-independent success.SUBSCRIBE TO WATCH THE VIDEOS FIRST https://www.youtube.com/@govclose/?sub_confirmation=1Whether you want ...
May 01, 2025•32 min
GovClose is the fastest way to break into federal sales — or scale it. Whether you're starting out or already selling, our certification gives you the system, tools, and training to win contracts now. Start here: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification The federal government is overhauling how it buys from businesses — and GSA Schedules are becoming the new gatekeepers. In this powerful interview with former GSA senior official Kevan Kivlan, we reveal:How Trump's Executive Order accelerated...
Apr 23, 2025•54 min
In this exclusive short preview, I reveal 3 secrets that top contractors know (and most businesses miss) about breaking into government sales. Want the full breakdown? 👉 Watch the full interview with former GSA official Kevan Kivlan on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@govclose/?sub_confirmation=1 🎯 Or get certified now: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification...
Apr 23, 2025•28 sec
Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification If you're submitting government proposals in 2025, this Government Contract Proposal Checklist could be the difference between winning and losing. In this exclusive interview, GovClose graduate Desmond Daniels breaks down the 5 biggest mistakes companies make on federal RFPs — and how to avoid them. Whether you're new to government contracting or looking to sharpen your proposal writing strategy, this checklist is your ...
Apr 17, 2025•33 min
Senator JD Vance just announced a $1 Trillion Department of Defense (DoD) investment to enhance military readiness, advanced technology, cybersecurity, software development, and manufacturing. But here’s the catch: Not everyone will benefit.The DoD is accelerating contract awards through Other Transaction Authority (OTA) and GSA Schedules —two pathways most companies are missing out on. If you’re a contractor or small business selling to the government, you need to know how to leverage these new...
Apr 09, 2025•9 min
Other Transaction Authority is a faster way for the US government to make purchases. Traditionalized sparingly, SECDEF released a memo pushing OTAs and CSOs to streamline government contracting for small businesses (for certain areas) Is this is a huge opportunity for non-traditional companies looking to break into the federal space without the hassle of traditional FAR contracts. Start your career in government contracting here: https://www.govclose.com Train your sales team to close government...
Apr 02, 2025•54 min
SUBSCRIBE TO WATCH THE VIDEOS FIRST https://www.youtube.com/@govclose/?sub_confirmation=1Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Our Book is FREE, But Only Here: https://www.dodcontract.com/Watch How to Find Gov Contract LeadsThis is a video about Trump’s New Executive Order: Will You Need a GSA Schedule to Sell to the Government?This video discusses a significant executive order signed by President Trump that affects how businesses sell to U.S. federal agenc...
Mar 26, 2025•10 min
Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification FREE Training: https://www.govclose.com In this episode of the Gov Close and DOD Contract Academy Podcast, Rick discusses the ongoing investments by the US government in legacy weapon systems like the B-52 and the opportunities this creates for small businesses and technology firms. He explains where to find these opportunities, including AF Works, SBIR Innovation Portal, Vulcan, and several consortiums. Rick emphasizes...
Mar 20, 2025•7 min
The federal government is slashing jobs, but that doesn’t mean opportunities are disappearing—far from it. In this episode, I sit down with Armand Curet , a federal jobs expert, to break down what’s really happening with government layoffs and why contractors and consultants could be the biggest winners. We’ll cover: 00:00 Introduction to Federal Workforce Changes00:40 Impact of Workforce Reductions01:51 Current Hiring and Workforce Dynamics04:25 Opportunities in Government Contracting06:24 Navi...
Mar 14, 2025•45 min
The key to maximizing your income potential with military experience is government contracting. In this video USAF veteran Rick Howard walks through 2 paths to use their experience to land high paying account executive positions or start a profitable consulting business.Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/Watch these videos next:3 Ways To Make Money In GovCon: https://youtu.be/w69_xF5rZJs5 Steps To Your Firs...
Mar 11, 2025•1 hr 9 min
Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/Watch these videos next:3 Ways To Make Money In GovCon: https://youtu.be/w69_xF5rZJs5 Steps To Your First Client: https://youtu.be/UCGoArfOGJwFree Training: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification #federaljobs #governmentjobs #federal #layoffs Spending cuts and federal employee layoffs have many of people nervous. However, many opportunities will be emerging and nows ...
Mar 05, 2025•37 min
Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/How a Simple Niche Strategy Can Transform Your Business In this video, Rick Howard, a former government procurement officer and founder of Gov Close, shares a powerful strategy based on his father's successful pivot in the house painting business during the 1980s. By specializing in repairing damaged ceilings and branding himself as 'The Ceiling Doctor,' his father managed...
Mar 03, 2025•12 min
Learn government contracting, start a business, earn what your worth: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/GovClose Certification Program: GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Watch this video next: https://youtu.be/cwefj03He74In this episode, Mark Snakenberg shares his journey from a 25-year military career to becoming a successful consultant in government contracting through the GovClose Certification Progr...
Feb 23, 2025•36 min
Small business government contract revenue has been increasing year over year. Will this continue under Trump? In this episode former government procurement officer Rick Howard gives his predictions. GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/ Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickychoward/
Feb 16, 2025•15 min
In this video we feature a portion of the recent conversation between Joe Rogan and Joe Rogan and Dr. Bret Weinstein. Bret asks Joe about the #govcon 8(a) program and other government contracting set asides for small business. Many people are concerned about DOGE and how spending cuts will affect Government contracting for small businesses. Small business set asides and certifications in particular are on the minds of many people. The bottomline is we have to be aware of what's happening but als...
Feb 09, 2025•22 min
SUBSCRIBE TO WATCH THE VIDEOS FIRST https://www.youtube.com/@govclose/?sub_confirmation=1 Mastering SAM.gov is the first step toward winning government contracts, but most people use it wrong. By the end of this video, you’ll know exactly how to spot the best opportunities and avoid wasting time Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/ Watch these videos next: 3 Ways To Make Money In GovCon: https://youtu.be/w69...
Feb 06, 2025•33 min
The pricing structure on your government contract is VERY important. So what happens if you win the contract and your not making any profit? Master Contracting Officer Col GovClose student Stephen through the specifics of his contract and how to negotiate for more money. Get the GovClose Certification: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Our students learn the government contracting skills to : 1. Start their own consulting business that can earn up to $400k as a "solopreneur" advising ...
Feb 04, 2025•47 min
In this episode former government contracting procurement officer Rick Howard gives a 6 step plan for making $378K a Year as a consultant helping companies sell to the US government. Check out the GOVCLOSE CERTIFICATION! Our students learn the government contracting skills to : 1. Start their own consulting business that can earn up to $400k as a "solopreneur" advising businesses that sell to the government. 2. Land high paying sales executive jobs with companies in the public sector. 3. Increas...
Jan 29, 2025•21 min
Paying commissions and contingent fee's in government contracting are not allowed in all situations. Watch former government procurement officer Rick Howard review what the Federal Acquisitions Regulations say about this, when its appropriate and when it's not!! Start A Career In Government Contracting: https://www.govclose.com/sales-certification Free Book Download: https://www.dodcontract.com/ 0:00 Commissions in Gov Contracting 1:37 Understanding the Legal Framework 03:00 Defining Key Terms a...
Jan 23, 2025•17 min
