Small business owners interested in contracting with the Defense Logistics Agency can now use a new search function on DLA Small Business Webpage to obtain contact information for the supply chain that handles the items or services it provides.
The new tool is the first iteration of a broader Supplier Journey program intended to help new entrants navigate government procurement processes and learn the nuances of working with DLA.
“Giving small businesses the information they need to create pathways to contract with us is just one way we are working to expand our industry base partnerships,” said Brad Bunn, deputy director of DLA. “Closer ties with small businesses will ultimately strengthen our industrial base and lead us to solutions to difficult challenges like logistics in a contested environment. »
Users should only enter the supply or service they wish to providethen click “Search” for results that include a product or service code and the name of the DLA supply chain that handles the item or service. Links to specific supply chains are included on the page to give potential suppliers information ranging from explanations of procurement processes to policies and procedures relevant to doing business with the agency.
New suppliers are often unaware that DLA has multiple supply chains or that goods and services are categorized by codes for ease of management, said Daniele Kurze, DLA’s small business director.
“Many companies who have never signed a contract with us before do not know what a national stock number or federal procurement class is, and government jargon can be confusing,” Kurze added. “We want to make it easier for new entrants to see where they fit in our supply chains, then help them connect with DLA’s small business specialists and program managers focused on their areas.
While the first stage of the Supplier Pathway program gives small businesses an entry point, the next stage will outline the steps they must take to partner with the agency.
“We want providers to clearly understand the steps they need to take on their particular journey to be successful. We will provide a roadmap of the certifications they will need and associated timelines for how long this might take,” Kurze said.
A supplier specializing in hazardous waste disposal needs certifications from the Environmental Protection Agency, for example, while a hardware supplier may need certain certifications for its quality management system for certain products.
“These new streamlined pathways are part of our broader effort to increase the resiliency of the industrial base by increasing new entrants’ access to DLA’s supplier base, enhancing our supplier portal, and creating tools to enable our employees to identify market sectors that could benefit from new acquisition strategies, all of which will lead to a more resilient and competitive market,” said Matt Beebe, DLA’s director of acquisitions.
Kurze’s team will make improvements to supplier journeys in fiscal year 2025. The first iterations will help small businesses benefit from the tool as the agency continues to shape it over time, he said. -she declared.
“We also welcome ideas from industry on things they would like the tool to do,” Kurze added.
Supplier Pathways targets new entrants, but can also help current suppliers or service providers who are considering expanding their business. It also allows providers to obtain useful information themselves 24/7, rather than having to wait until business hours to call a DLA office.
Kurze said she believes supplier pathways will help reduce barriers for small businesses and increase the number of suppliers qualified to provide crucial parts and modern technology.
“We’re really excited about the relationships this will help us build with smaller suppliers,” Kurze said. “There are always opportunities for them at DLA, as each of our supply chains has critical gaps that they can help us fill.” »
More information on how to do business with DLA, specific opportunities and more information is available on the agency’s website. Small Business Web Page.