Blog Archives
Winning Proposals for Veteran-Owned Businesses
I just submitted my very first proposal to the State of Florida—and I have to admit, I didn’t think I stood a chance.
This wasn’t some minor RFP. Florida is recompeting its Management Consulting Services Consolidated Schedule, and I chose to compete in Service Category 4: Executive Leadership Development and Customized Training—one of nine powerful categories, all dominated by big-name firms with deep pockets and armies of employees.
But here I am. A veteran, a founder, a team of one, pushing through multiple websites, platforms, registrations, certifications, documents, file formats, and yes—those relentless character count limits—just to be considered viable. To even get a seat at the table.
And I made it.
It was not easy. The process was time-consuming, mentally exhausting, and filled with moments of doubt. But it was also one of the best learning experiences I’ve had as a business owner.
And here’s what I want other small businesses—especially my fellow Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs)—to know:
If you don’t try, you can’t win.
The State of Florida spent over $82 million on management consulting services last year alone. That’s not just a number—it’s an opportunity. One that we, as small, capable, values-driven businesses, can pursue. If you have the right NAICS codes, the right mindset, and the willingness to navigate the process, there’s a real path forward.
Yes, the back-office requirements are real. But compared to the federal government, the state-level procurement process is far more accessible. You don’t need a team of ten compliance officers. You just need to be intentional, organized, and committed to understanding the rules of the game.
I don’t know if I’ll win this one. But I do know this:
- I now understand how the process works.
- I can replicate and refine my submission.
- I’ve proven to myself—and maybe to others—that I belong at the table.
- And I’m ready to bring in some of the most mission-driven leaders I know to serve with excellence.
To anyone else out there feeling like a one-person army going up against giants: keep going.
The journey matters. The learning is real. And your impact—when your moment comes—will be undeniable.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statesville, NC – MWK Ventures LLC., a professional services and logistics management firm, is proud to announce its official designation as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This significant achievement underscores the firm’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its dedication to supporting the veteran community, and is now eligible for preferential access to federal contracts, allowing the firm to contribute more substantially to the public sector.
Mr. Mark Kleinhenz, President and CEO of MWK Ventures LLC, emphasized the importance of the designation: “Becoming an SDVOSB is not just about the growth potential it affords our company. It’s a testament to our dedication to providing opportunities for veterans and ensuring their exceptional skills and experiences are recognized in the business world. It also demonstrates we are operating in accordance with Federal and State laws helping others identify honorable providers of goods and services.”
MWK Ventures, LLC would like to thank Lou Schwartz for his invaluable assistance in securing this designation. His expertise and dedication have been instrumental in achieving this milestone.
For further information about hollandlogistics.com Holland Logistics, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, is a leading global fourth-party logistics (4PL) provider that aims to keep our faith first and strives to provide award-winning ethical customer service and solutions. Based in Statesville, North Carolina, we provide complete supply chain management services and a true partnership that allows you to focus on growing your core business.
For more on Lou Schwartz’s services, please visit loujswz.com or contact him directly at lou@loujswz.com or 706-332-6005.
Mark Kleinhenz
President & CEO
MWK Ventures, LLC and Holland Logistics
2227 Salisbury Hwy, Statesville, NC 28677
[Website](https://www.hollandlogistics.com/ )
SAM.gov UIC: WSZZCPZUWNU4 CAGE: 9VU38
A Picture is Worth 1000 Words
We are starting to get a lot of traction around helping founders show potential customers their organizations are being run in accordance with Federal and State legal, financial and business requirements through the awarding of federal certifications. They also demonstrate there past affiliation with the US Armed Services and there pride in the tradition of service and professionalism the Armed Services represent.
They realize as do customers that Federal Certification offered through the GSA have intrinsic values beyond the ability to open another channel for them. Let me help you see that as well.
We want to partner with you and help your organization have an additional tool to be successful. We work to make our services affordable and a true benefit to you.
We would love to help you. Lou Schwartz, founder
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Acworth, GA, March 21, 2024] – Maples Staffing Group LLC (MSG LLC), a distinguished veteran-owned small business renowned for its two decades of excellence in personal staffing and talent acquisition, proudly announces its achievement of Federal Recognized certification from the Small Business Administration (SBA) as a Veteran Owned Business.
Specializing in NAICS codes 561320 and 561330 that cover Talent Acquisition, MSG LLC has solidified its position as a trusted partner for local, state, and federal government agencies. With a client-centric approach, MSG LLC ensures seamless alignment between individual expertise and organizational requirements, setting a benchmark for excellence in staffing solutions.
This recognition not only positions MSG LLC for federal contracting opportunities but also serves as a “foot in the door” for both clients and talent in their search for meaningful opportunities. It opens pathways for collaboration that foster growth and success, benefiting organizations and individuals alike.
With over two decades of proven expertise, MSG LLC remains committed to delivering superior talent solutions that drive organizational success.
For inquiries or further information, please contact Robert Maples, President, and CEO of Maples Staffing Group LLC, at (678) 852-0413 or rmaples@maplesstaffing.com.
1720 Mars Hill Rd; Suite 124 – PMB – 321 Acworth, GA 30101
Please Contact Lou Schwartz, lou@loujswz.com 706-332-6005 http://www.loujswz.com for assistance to get your business Federally certified.
Today We Received the News
After dedicating several weeks preparing all the necessary documentation to validate my status as a service-disabled veteran and to establish my business as a legitimate small enterprise, we have successfully obtained our certification as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). Throughout this process, we have garnered invaluable insights and experiences, all of which have presented us with another avenue to offer our professional services to other organizations seeking to explore additional work opportunities.
Both Sherri and I eagerly anticipate the prospects that this designation will bring, along with the sense of pride associated with being recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration. We are excited to embark on new ventures and hope to make substantial contributions in our field of expertise.
