MDAPEX Client Wins $100 Million IDIQ Contract
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Eno Zesi, CEO of Numa Management Associates, has built a thriving government contracting business specializing in staff augmentation, project management, and managed services. In 2022, Numa Management Associates was one of 20 companies awarded the New York State-Wide Administration Services Contract -$100 Million, 5-year IDIQ Contract - estimated revenue per company - $20M per year. Despite fierce competition, Zesi has remained focused and persistent, emphasizing that "there's no plan B—you just have to keep going." Her determination has been key to overcoming the challenges of breaking into the government contracting space.
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Her journey has not been without obstacles, particularly as an introvert who found networking and self-promotion difficult. She credits her counselor, Richard Paden with helping her build confidence and recognize the value of her extensive professional experience. "Richard was able to help me pull that strength that I have in me," she shared, highlighting how mentorship played a crucial role in her growth. The APEX Accelerator also provided strategic guidance on navigating procurement processes, networking effectively, and leveraging past experience to secure contracts.
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Eno advises other small businesses to remain diligent and proactive in their efforts. She stresses the importance of attending seminars, networking events, and registering on local, state, and federal portals. "They may not call you back or even remember you at first," she noted, "but your continuous presence builds trust." She also emphasized the value of timely follow-ups, as encouraged by her counselor, ensuring potential opportunities don’t slip away. Through perseverance, networking, and strategic positioning, Eno's story demonstrates how small businesses can successfully break into and thrive in government contracting.
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Listen to her story at the 43 minute mark on our podcast
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