Center Machine Inc

Since its founding, Center Machine, Inc. has built a strong reputation by offering high-quality machining, welding, and industrial repair services to businesses across North Dakota. With roots firmly planted in the private sector, the team at Center Machine asked an important question: Can a small business like ours compete in the government market? With support from the North Dakota APEX Accelerator, the answer was a confident yes.

Their journey into government contracting began when they attended a Procurement Fair, even though it required a four-hour drive. That kind of dedication is exactly what sets successful small businesses apart. “Everyone we have worked with has been outstanding. Very knowledgeable and helpful,” said the Center Machine team, recalling their early experience with ND APEX staff.

Early on, ND APEX helped Center Machine tackle one of the biggest hurdles, applying for the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOB) certification. Their advisor walked them through understanding the program, updating their SAM.gov registration, and revising their capability statement to reflect their veteran-owned status. “The APEX program assisted in pointing myself in the right direction,” the owner shared.

Finding and competing for government contracts was the next critical step. With ND APEX’s help, Center Machine registered on the North Dakota Bidders List and SAM.gov, learned to use key procurement sites, and enrolled in APEX’s bid match service to receive customized solicitations. “We utilized the bid match service to receive solicitations,” they said, appreciating how much simpler it made the process.

ND APEX also connected them with educational resources and professional networks, helping them attend webinars and procurement events, and introducing them to partner organizations like the SBA, SBDC, VBOC, SCORE, WBC, and Impact Dakota MEP. As they described it, “APEX expanded our ideas of how to get involved with government contracting.”

Today, Center Machine is leveraging the experience, relationships, and tools gained through ND APEX to grow its presence in the public sector. “The APEX program is second to none and extremely valuable to us small businesses,” they affirmed.

At ND APEX, we are proud to support companies like Center Machine, Inc., businesses that are willing to show up, learn, and take strategic steps toward growth. With the right guidance and persistence, small businesses can and do succeed in government contracting.

Learn more about Center Machine, Inc. and their services at: https://centermachineinc.com/