Illinois APEX Accelerator at CMAA
The Illinois APEX Accelerator at CMAA acts as a bridge for small businesses looking to enter the government contracting arena. We are part of a statewide network of procurement experts dedicated to helping local businesses compete effectively in the government marketplace. With support from the Defense Logistics Agency’s Procurement Technical Assistance Program and collaborative agreements with state and local governments and non-profit organizations, APEX Accelerators connect buyers and suppliers. We utilize our knowledge of government contracting and contractor capabilities to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness in serving our government. Our center provides technical guidance, marketing support, and training for both new and established businesses interested in selling to local, state, and federal government agencies.
Services Include:
​
-
No-cost, one-on-one consulting designed to meet your individual business requirements
-
Educational sessions and workshops
-
Guidance on engaging in government contracts
-
Help in identifying the appropriate certifications for your business
-
Ability to access government specifications and standards
-
Matching bids and finding solicitations
-
Support with System for Award Management (SAM)
-
Assistance with teaming arrangements, joint ventures, mentor/protégé, and subcontracting
-
Marketing assistance and market research
-
Help identify government buyers and sub-contracting opportunities
-
Capability statements and elevator pitches
-
Government, industry, and investor connections
-
Virtual and in person networking events​
Schedule an appointment with one of our team members today!
The APEX Accelerator in Illinois at CMAA operates under a collaborative agreement with the Department of Defense (DoD). Assistance for the program is facilitated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Chinese Mutual Aid Association.
Chinese Mutual Aid Association is partnering with the City of Chicago, Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP), to provide hyper-local support to business owners and start-up entrepreneurs through the Illinois APEX Accelerator program.