Infrastructure has been part of a very important government activity. Its meaning has been closely associated with physical structures like skyscrapers, airports, roads, railways, factories, parks, facilities, lighthouses, ports, train stations, houses/residences, schools, hospitals, roads, canals, bridges, dams, towers etc.
With relation to government, infrastructure is seen as a part of public services, a high-cost investment and a method to boost one’s economy. In addition, infrastructure facilitates productivity, connects and builds communities and provides security in terms of utilities to society.
Since infrastructure plays an important role in economy and society, it receives great attention. To improve and deliver infrastructure to communities, the government designs and proposes infrastructure projects for the benefit of the public. Once these infrastructure projects are approved, the government makes these projects a reality by opening a procurement project based on the infrastructure needed.
In every place, there is always something being built up by local, state and federal government. As mentioned, infrastructure projects are very expensive investments and every project needs other businesses to make it happen. Supplies, equipment and manpower are always needed – that’s where small businesses can come in. Small businesses can prove all these three things. However, interested businesses that wish to participate as vendors should enter the government procurement marketplace before they are considered for a particular infrastructure project.
Engaging in government procurement (for an infrastructure project and other government-related projects) is a good way for a small business to achieve some benefits. Some benefits include:
Creating profit
The government sets a budget for every project and pays everybody involved. Many people consider procuring for the government as a very good option since the government can raise income by various means.
Helping the local economy
If the infrastructure is a local government’s project, the small business can help boost the local economy for a time. The small businesses involved help to create something that will generate future income for the local community and get some profit for themselves. It’s a win-win situation.
More projects and exposure
A small business participating in procurement can be exposed and participate in many infrastructure-related projects from local to state and federal level. A small part in a government project can open doors for many opportunities for a small business to take.
The Other End
So, what does an infrastructure project get? Ideally, any project should get the best vendor for a particular supply or service. The definition of ‘best’ is very subjective but best price with the best quality of good and service is often the most used definition.
Since a lot of supplies and services will be needed for an infrastructure project, many small businesses will be working together to build a finished structure. It is always a cooperative effort, especially for a very big project.
Procurement is a door for many small businesses to gain profit and help the economy. Whether it is an infrastructure project or any kind, projects don’t build themselves. Small but capable hands are able to create something bigger and more positive for all.
