GSA Multiple Award Schedules (MAS)
I spoke with a company called BD Squared that a friend referred me too.
One of the services they offer is helping GovCon companies get on different contract vehicles, includes the GSA Multiple Award Schedule (MAS).
The MAS basically allows GSA to pre-screen government contracting businesses so that other government agencies can purchase products and services from those companies with less administrative headache.
It's like being on an approved vendor list for the government.
If, after a few years of being a 1099 and growing your company a bit as sub-contractors, you should be able to submit a package to get on MAS or similar vehicles.
But does this mean you'll automatically get millions of dollars flowing in from the government?
Nope.
BUT, what it does allow for you to do is to go to your clients and their agency's contracting shop and say "hey, if you want to do business with me, we're on GSA MAS for X, Y, and Z services."
If your client really wants to work with you, they'll find a way to work with you on that vehicle.
Even at the prime level, the key to success is still to develop positive relationships with clients and a solid professional reputation.
The administrative stuff is necessary, but not the most important thing, and you can pay service providers to help you with it if you don't want to do it on your own.
So lessons for both solo 1099s and aspiring GovCon business owners:
Focus on client relationships and doing good work first.
Only after you check that box should you focus on paperwork.
Want the full playbook? Check out Going 1099.