If you are a veteran, service member, or military spouse interested in starting or growing your own business, you are not alone. There are a variety of resources and organizations that are on your side and want to help you secure a financial future for you and your family.  

The Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP) was authorized by Congress in 1985 in an effort to expand the number of businesses capable of participating in the government marketplace. Administered by the Department of Defense, Defense Logistics Agency, the program provides matching funds through cooperative agreements with state and local governments and non-profit organizations for the establishment of Procurement Technical Assistance Venters (PTACs) to provide procurement assistance.

PTACs come in many different sizes and shapes, reflecting the needs, priorities, and resources of the areas they serve. Some PTACs are administered directly by the state governments, other partners with universities, community colleges, local economic development corporations, or other local institutions. Some PTACs operate within Bureau of Indian Affairs areas exclusively serving Native American owned businesses. Many are affiliated in some ways with Small Business Development Centers and other small business programs.  All PTACs are staffed with counselors experienced in government contracting and provide a wide range of services including classes and seminars, individual counseling, and easy access to bid opportunities, contract specifications, procurement histories, and other information necessary to successfully compete for government contracts.

Many PTAC counselors have backgrounds in government acquisitions, and virtually all receive ongoing training to keep pace with continually evolving acquisitions procedures and policies. The Association of Procurement Technical Assistance Centers provides a network that allows any PTAC counselor almost instant access to the expertise and experience of over 500 colleagues, as well as real-time information from government agencies regarding new requirements and initiatives.