From Solo Attorney to $617M GovCon Leader

Sullivan Cove Consultants LLC

John Graham, Managing Director of Sullivan Cove Consultants LLC, a Disabled Veteran and Minority firm, has built a thriving multi-disciplinary professional services firm specializing in federal and commercial contracts. Since first engaging with the Maryland APEX Accelerator in 2003, Graham leveraged their expertise to navigate the complexities of government contracting. His firm has since won numerous federal contracts, including a staggering $617 million award from the Department of Justice for asset forfeiture legal services. Sullivan Cove Consultants has grown substantially over the years and employs 150 people across the country. Reflecting on his experience, Graham credits the APEX Accelerator team for their invaluable guidance, stating, “You all were around when we were born, and we’re still around nearly 20 years later.”

Despite his success, Graham faced significant challenges, particularly in scaling his business. When his firm's revenue increased tenfold in a single month due to a large contract award, the accompanying surge in expenses created a cash flow crisis. Traditional banks refused funding, leaving him scrambling for solutions. Ultimately, he secured financing through a government contract-specialized factoring company, allowing Sullivan Cove to sustain its rapid growth. Additionally, Graham has benefited from the APEX Accelerator’s veteran-focused support, particularly through certified counselors who provided crucial advice on maintaining his Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) status.

Graham strongly encourages other small businesses to seek out APEX Accelerator assistance, emphasizing the importance of leveraging multiple sources of advice. He highlights government contracting as a uniquely stable opportunity, noting that “Uncle Sam always pays his bills—and he pays promptly.” His journey demonstrates the power of strategic planning, adaptability, and resourcefulness in overcoming financial and operational hurdles. For aspiring government contractors, Graham’s story is a testament to perseverance and the impact of expert guidance in achieving long-term success.

Listen to his story on our podcast