Government Contract Consulting

As companies downsize, they no longer employ people who can thread their way through the complex world of government contracts. Yet these contracts can be a source of business growth to many companies. Potential clients should not be ignored on the grounds that the governmental requirements seem too difficult. Rather, you will guide these organizations into the land of business opportunity that government contracts represent. Your experience with the special language that government agencies use (and the red tape involved in each transaction) plus your contacts in different departments and agencies will help you help your clients in doing business with the government. This is a specialized field, but it can be a very rewarding one. Often, success in gaining one contract will smooth the path for future work. If you can produce the contracts and/or help carry them out successfully with project management skills, you have a very large potential market of companies that would love to hire your services.


Equipping your office is the main expense; expect to spend at least $3,000 to $6,000. Considering that some government contract consultants charge as much as $150 per hour for their valued service, your expenses will be minimal in relation to your earnings.


This is an insider business, so you’ll need to sell yourself as an insider if you aren’t one already. Don’t worry—as you begin to achieve success, you will become more of a real insider. The other factor here is a good business sense. What approach to obtaining a government contract would be most appropriate for each of your clients? How can you guide a specific business organization through the process? You are doing a lot of good for your clients each time you are successful, and that should make up for the frequent need to work under time pressure.

Approx. cost of start-up:$3,000 to $6,000


Approx. potential earnings:$40,000 to $65,000


Typical fees: $50 to $150 per hour or a flat rate of $175+ per project


Where to promote: Trade journals, association memberships, direct mail, networking, referrals, Web site


Qualifications: Experience in obtaining government contracts, contacts in Washington D.C., writing skills


Things needed: Computer, suite software, fax, copier, printer, cell phone, office furniture, business cards, letterhead, envelopes


Staff required:No


Hidden costs: Internet Service Provider fees, telephone bills