Government contracting might feel like uncharted territory for semiconductor and advanced technology companies. But with the right tools, selling to the government can open the door to significant opportunities, fueling growth, funding innovation, and strengthening your role in critical national supply chains.
That’s why the NY SMART I-Corridor partnered with the Monroe County–Upstate NY APEX Accelerator to share three essential steps for businesses looking to break into the government marketplace.
Why It Matters
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has identified Microelectronics as one of its Critical Technology Areas (CTAs), meaning the government is actively investing in innovation and commercialization in this space. For Upstate New York companies, that translates into a major opportunity: whether you’re a startup working toward commercialization or an established firm seeking to expand, government contracts can provide both stability and growth.
By understanding the requirements and pathways, semiconductor and advanced tech businesses can better position themselves to compete and compete successfully.
Tip #1: Understand Where You Fit in the Technology Roadmap
Every company’s product is at a different stage of development, from early innovation to commercialization. The DoD has created Critical Technology Area Roadmaps designed to prevent companies from falling into the infamous “valley of death” between R&D and market adoption.
Microelectronics is just one of several CTAs that matter for semiconductor firms, alongside Advanced Computing, Future Generation Wireless Technology, Quantum Science, and others. You can view the roadmaps here.
Knowing where your company’s technology fits will help you identify the best entry points for government contracting opportunities.
Tip #2: Complete the Foundational Steps
Whether you pursue contracts as a Prime (direct contractor with the government) or Sub (works under a Prime), you’ll need to meet specific requirements to participate in the Defense Industrial Base. At a minimum, companies should be prepared for:
- SAM Registration
- CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification)
- JCP (Joint Certification Program)
- ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations)
- ISO Certification
- SBIR/STTR Programs
These certifications and registrations prove that your business is ready, capable, and qualified.
APEX Accelerators also work closely with large government primes and agencies, helping them identify subcontractors, conduct market research, and streamline their efforts. That means if your company is properly prepared, you could be matched with bigger players already winning contracts.
Tip #3: Build a Government Marketing Strategy That Wins
Getting your foot in the door is only part of the process. To compete successfully, companies need to:
- Develop a clear government marketing strategy that keeps your pipeline full.
- Research who needs your capabilities and how they buy.
- Write high-quality, responsive proposals that are fully compliant.
- Learn from past submissions and refine your approach over time.
- Sign up for a free bid match service to save time and focus on opportunities that matter.
Focus on What You Do Best
Government contracting can feel complex, but you don’t need to navigate it alone. The Monroe County–Upstate NY APEX Accelerator is part of a nationwide network of 90 centers managed by the DoD Office of Small Business Programs. Their mission is simple: to provide businesses with the education and training they need to succeed in government contracting.
Whether you’re new to this space or looking to scale, their team will work with you one-on-one to create a customized government marketing roadmap, so you can focus on what you do best while growing your impact.
Learn more about more about Monroe County – Upstate NY APEX Accelerator here: https://www.mcflapex.org/
