Go Further as a Non-Traditional Innovator with Teaming

For the United States, innovating quickly is key to maintaining a competitive edge on a global scale, and for that, non-traditional companies are needed.

Non-traditional contractors (NTDCs) are defined as small businesses that are exempt from or do not meet CAS requirements. Their funding cannot go over $500 million and they often bring fresh ideas, technologies, and capabilities to the table and can offer agility, specialized expertise and entrepreneurial spirit. 

However, for many NTDCs, knowing how to navigate government contracting can be a daunting challenge.

One of the most powerful strategies within contracting is teaming, which can open doors for these NTDCs, enabling them to thrive and innovate.

The Power of Teaming

Teaming refers to the collaboration between two or more companies to pursue a common goal, combining their unique strengths, expertise and resources.

In the context of contracting, teaming can be a powerful strategy for NTDCs to gain a foothold in the government market.

How Teaming Can Unlock Opportunities

Access to Expertise and Resources

NTDCs often bring innovative solutions and fresh perspectives, but may lack the experience and infrastructure required for government contracting.

By teaming with established contractors, they can leverage the expertise, resources and networks of their partners. This collaboration allows them to present comprehensive and competitive proposals, increasing their chances of winning contracts.

Lowering Risk

Government contracts, especially those involving cutting-edge technologies, can be risky endeavors.

Teaming allows companies to share the risks associated with project execution, which reduces the financial burden on individual companies and fosters a collaborative environment where challenges can be addressed together.

Enhanced Credibility

For non-traditional companies, establishing credibility with government agencies can be a significant challenge. Partnering with well-known and respected contractors can enhance their reputation and instill confidence in government clients.

Expedited Project Execution

One of the primary advantages of OTA contracting is its ability to expedite project timelines. Teaming can further enhance this benefit by combining the strengths of multiple companies to accelerate research, development, and deployment.

Teaming Under an OTA

OTA contracting is a unique acquisition method used by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies to expedite the development and deployment of innovative technologies.

Unlike traditional Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)-based contracts, allow for more flexibility in terms and conditions, fostering a collaborative environment between the government and contractors.

This approach is particularly beneficial for non-traditional companies, including startups, small businesses, and technology firms that might not have the resources or experience to navigate the complexities of standard government contracts.

How NSTXL Can Help You Team

There are many ways to build teams at NSTXL, like using our Community platform or member database. But the best way to connect with other innovators is through our virtual and in-person events, such as Innovator NETWORX and Project TALX.

Project TALX give members direct access to project sponsors, starting conversations about specific opportunities. These webinars encourage discussion before solution deadlines, providing insights from end users about their needs and goals for prototypes.

Innovator NETWORX are virtual events where NSTXL members can learn about teaming opportunities from different companies. During this hour-long event, members can share their capabilities and see how they can contribute to a team. After the event, they can continue the conversation on NSTXL Community, our online networking platform

Teaming Success Stories Happening All the Time

Several stories highlight the impact of teaming with NSTXL:

• Robbie Robertson of Sedaro highlights the long-term relationships built under NSTXL’s OTA consortia.

• Brad Cheetham of Advance Space speaks on how being a small contractor under SpEC has helped the company become a prime contractor on the ORACLE project. In addition, Brad talks about how he is looking forward to teaming with other companies to solve problems in the future.

• Recently, the FORGE C2 prime performer Omni Federal hosted a ribbon-cutting event to unveil their new office space in Colorado Springs, CO; a significant occasion for the team. This was significant because they will now share their office space with their non-traditional teammates, taking collaboration further.

Getting Technology Out There, Together

By leveraging the strengths, expertise, and resources of their partners, non-traditional companies can overcome barriers, mitigate risks, and deliver innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the government.

For non-traditional companies looking to break into government contracting, the message is clear: don’t go it alone.

Are you a non-traditional company looking to break into the government contracting space? Join NSTXL and unlock the power of teaming.