From Driving Buses to Winning Contracts
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Lakeysha Claxton, CEO of Homeland Custodial Services, has achieved remarkable success in government contracting, recently securing a contract to provide janitorial services to the U.S. Navy in Okinawa, Japan. Her journey into GovCon began after years as a bus driver and operating a small business that left her burnt out. Seeking a more sustainable model, she connected with APEX Accelerator counselor Richard Paden and refocused her business strategy. Through dedication and guidance, she won her first major government contract within six months, eventually expanding into high-level cleaning services for agencies like Homeland Security, the National Park Service, and various military bases. "I wanted my company to work without me physically in it all the time," Claxton shared, underscoring her strategic approach to business growth.
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Despite her success, Claxton faced significant challenges, from losing contracts in her previous business to navigating the complexities of international staffing and operations. Transitioning from traditional janitorial services to specialized cleaning, including biohazard and COVID-19 response contracts, required extensive certifications and adaptability. Her expansion into global markets, starting with a contract at Yokota Air Base in Tokyo, proved her ability to scale her operations strategically. Through it all, she credits the APEX Accelerator for providing crucial guidance: "Mr. Paden has been an incredible resource—his experience in contracting and business strategy has helped me make informed decisions every step of the way." She came to the APEX Accelerator for assistance and with her counselor’s guidance, Lakeysha went on to win multiple contract awards valued at several million and created 45 employment opportunities.
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Claxton advises other small businesses to seek mentorship, invest in education, and diversify their service offerings to build resilience. "In my first business, when I lost contracts, I had nothing else lined up. Now, I make sure to have contracts that bring in revenue seasonally and across different sectors," she explained. Today, Homeland Custodial Services is a thriving enterprise with a projected annual revenue of $12 million over the next five years. Lakeysha has expanded her business to include private label products for government contracts, further strengthening her competitive edgeHer story exemplifies the power of perseverance, strategic partnerships, and continuous learning in achieving long-term success in the government contracting space.
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Listen to her story on our podcast
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