Many small businesses which traditionally concentrated on commercial markets, are looking to government contracts as a means of expansion. The government- federal,state, local and other- buys everything and anything these days. In fact, increasing amount of outsourcing and requirements to include small business in the government contracting arena have created opportunities never seen before- including personal service contracts, and contracts for even the smallest of businesses.

One company that has made a significant business out of government contracting is Kingform Cap Company, a manufacturer of military dress headwear. Kingform sells to all branches of the US Armed Services as well as foreign military distributors. This small family owned business is now one of only three manufacturers in the country which makes military caps. Operating in Manhattan and Queens for the last fifty years, the company is now expanding to a new manufacturing facility in Hicksville. There, they will produce not only headgear used in combat but also dress caps used by the honor guard at Presidential inaugurations!

Company owner Leonard Ochs is very excited about relocating to Long Island and the opportunities the expanded space will yield to respond to the ever increasing government market. Company founder Abe Ochs (Leonard's father) still stops by to give advice on company operations so its truly a family affair! The move was made possible by a long term, low fixed rate second mortgage loan from Long Island Development Corporation/Greater New York Development Co. which enabled Kingform to put just 10% down on the project (including acquisition cost, renovations and soft costs). This allows the company to preserve it cash for working capital needs in the expansion.

Any entrepreneur wishing to get into the lucrative government contract market can do so with free help from the Long Island Procurement Technical Assistance Program- just call 866 433 5432 and speak with a counselor.