Why Women Entrepreneurs Should Explore Government Contracting by Dr. Yvette Gavin

Dr. Yvette Gavin, CEO of Yvette Gavin Consulting, is a seasoned leadership strategist, executive coach, and trainer. Through her SBA 8(a) and WOSB-certified firm, she partners with federal agencies, corporations, and nonprofits to deliver innovative workforce solutions that drive leadership excellence, organizational growth, and lasting impact.

When most women think about growing their business, they imagine landing new clients, scaling online sales, or building corporate partnerships. But there’s another opportunity—one many entrepreneurs never consider—that can provide long-term stability and exponential growth: government contracting. The U.S. government is the world’s largest buyer of products and services. Every year, billions of dollars are awarded to small businesses, including contracts specifically set aside for women-owned companies. Yet too often, women entrepreneurs are unaware of these opportunities or assume the process is too complex. I want you to know: it is possible, and it is worth it.

As the founder and CEO of Yvette Gavin Consulting, I’ve won multiple high-value, long-term government contracts. But I didn’t start with insider knowledge or a government background. I built my business step by step, learning how to navigate the system and positioning my company to serve clients ranging from Fortune 500 corporations to federal agencies. Along the way, I’ve discovered these key lessons that every woman entrepreneur can use:

1. Certifications Create Access

Programs like Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) certification and the SBA’s 8(a) program were designed to level the playing field. They don’t hand out contracts, but they give women business owners a seat at the table. If your business is certified, agencies are actively looking for you.

2. Relationships Matter as Much as Proposals

Government contracting is about trust. Agencies want to know they’re working with reliable, high-quality businesses. Start by showing up—attend networking events, connect with contracting officers, and let people know who you are and what you offer. Your presence can open doors before you ever submit a proposal.

3. Play the Long Game

Contracts don’t happen overnight. It takes time to understand requirements, respond to opportunities, and earn awards. But once you win, the rewards are long-term and consistent—something every entrepreneur needs to build stability.

4. Use Partnerships to Grow

You don’t have to do everything alone. Partnering with other professionals allows you to scale and meet larger demands without losing quality. Mentor-protégé programs and teaming agreements are tools that help you grow smarter, not just harder.

5. Excellence Wins Every Time

The best strategy in government contracting—or any business—is delivering excellence. When you provide outstanding results, agencies and clients want to work with you again and again. That repeat business is how small companies grow into lasting enterprises.

One Last Thing

Government contracting isn’t just another business strategy—it’s a unique opportunity. Unlike most markets, the federal government has billions of dollars set aside every year specifically for women-owned businesses. That means the door is already open—you simply have to walk through it.

Once I won my first contract, it became the catalyst for everything that followed. It proved that women entrepreneurs can compete and succeed in this space, and it laid the foundation for my company’s growth. For those ready to explore new possibilities, government contracting can provide stability, growth, and a level of impact that can change the trajectory of your business—and your life.

Learn more about Dr. Yvette 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvette-gavin-leadership-coach/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yvettegavininspire