Equal Opportunity? Not for Gun Store Owners!

[Sidewinder6]

@Dport

Sounds like a hassle, but it is probably worth it in the long run.

I agree. But the problem wasnt started by them. With the G. it is better to ‘navigate’ the pitfalls otherwise you are left to your own demise.

Beating down a door doesnt necessarily get you anywhere and we have learned that using the right vocabulary is the difference from someone who is ‘in the know’, and someone who is on the outside.

I think the original posters understand the difference from looking at their web site. I was just tossing a couple thoughts out FWIW. There isnt a day we go by where we dont shake our heads about similar things when it comes to contracting. Getting on a GSA list is a hard thing to do for a new company.

[C2Q]

@Sidewinder6

Being in Gov Contracts and understand your circumstances, I might offer a couple of tactics to smooth the rough road your on.

1. Seperate your firearm business from the one you have applied for GSA schedule with. Yes, there will be paperwork but you might step around the policy quagmire. There are enough problems in obtaining a small business line of credit and merchant bank accounts. Dont change names with GSA mid stream, your process will drag on if you do. Move your firearm business if that is feasible. You spread your liability as well and your attorney would like that in a high risk area.

2. You may have already done this but consider emphasizing some of your special status for additional incentives: a) Small Business, b) Woman Owned Business, c) Veteran Owned Business. You might be able to find the Government may help you find bridge financing, and you tell your bank to stick it.

You have to give more money to your tax accountant but you may be able to afford it with the new business.

Also, for financial planning, plan out 45-60 days on your cash flow. Your payment is made within 30 days once all the approvals are made. Often to disparate offices within the procurement agency.

Good luck.

Thanks for the info. Some of the things we have considered. I really don’t want to seperate the businesses.

I should pursue more of the special status possibilites. We are a woman, disabled veteran-owned business! That should help out somewhere.

Thanks.