For years, many Fayetteville-area contractors have watched major public construction projects awarded to firms from outside the region. Local companies, despite proven technical skills, often struggle to navigate the complex procurement process required to win government work. 

A new initiative from the Fayetteville-Cumberland Regional Entrepreneur & Business HUB aims to change that. The Advanced Contractors Academy, a free six-week program, is designed for established contractors ready to pursue larger-scale public contracts with agencies such as Fayetteville State University (FSU), Cumberland County and Cape Fear Valley Health.

For contractors seeking to transition from residential or small commercial work into institutional projects, the program offers a clear, structured entry point into a market segment with steady demand and competitive margins. Its mix of technical, financial and strategic training reflects a recognition that successful government contracting is as much about business systems as it is about building skills. 

“This gives our businesses the tools to compete successfully for local and regional government contracts,” said Dr. Tamara Colvin, the HUB’s director. “We want to ensure local companies are positioned to win these bids.”

The opportunities available in the government contracting sphere are significant. FSU has multiple capital projects on the horizon, including a new College of Education building, parking structures and major renovations. Cumberland County also has infrastructure upgrades planned, and Cape Fear Valley Health has plans for continued expansion.

Filling a Knowledge Gap

The Advanced Contractors Academy focuses on trades that frequently secure public project work—such as concrete, drywall, landscaping, electrical and plumbing—yet often encounter barriers to entry. Participants are guided through each stage of the procurement process, from understanding Requests for Information (RFIs) and Requests for Qualifications (RFQs) to preparing complete bid packages that meet strict compliance standards. 

“It’s about more than knowing the terminology,” Dr. Colvin said. “Participants work through real scenarios—reading plans, interpreting specifications and submitting competitive, accurate bids.” 

Exercises emphasize accurate cost estimating, including less obvious expenses such as extended payment cycles, bonding requirements and compliance costs. Underbidding, a common first-time mistake, is addressed through practice bids and group feedback.

The Academy also tackles operational readiness for public-sector work through an introduction to cash flow management, insurance and bonding capacity, workforce planning and access to credit. Business development support includes refining capability statements, upgrading websites and assembling project portfolios.

Cohorts are limited to 15 contractors to allow for peer exchange and individual guidance. Sessions progress from procurement fundamentals to advanced topics such as subcontractor coordination, change order processes and regulatory compliance, concluding with a timed mock bid exercise. 

Eligibility is limited to established businesses with at least two years in operation with demonstrable trade experience and revenue, reflecting the program’s emphasis on preparing firms already positioned for growth.

Enhancing Economic Impact

Dr. Colvin, who previously led the nationally recognized Veterans Business Outreach Center, brings to the Advanced Contractors Academy her experience in helping firms secure capital and create jobs. Since opening in 2022, the HUB’s 6,500-square-foot facility at Bronco Square has provided a centralized resource for entrepreneurs across the region. 

The Academy’s long-term goal is to keep more public construction dollars circulating locally. Contracts awarded to regional firms translate into local hiring, supplier relationships and reinvestment in business capacity.

Participation is free and applications are available at www.fsuhub.com.