MULLAN — Contrary to what is shown in movies and television, contracting with the government isn’t just for weapons and vehicle manufacturers.

In fact, thanks in part to the Idaho Procurement Technical Assistance Center, it’s easier than ever for local business owners to find the government agency that needs their product or service.

In an effort to enlighten Silver Valley businesses owners about this possibly lucrative opportunity, PTAC is hosting a “Doing Business with the Government” half-day workshop on Thursday, March 5 at the Mullan City Hall, located at 112 Terrill Loop, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

PTAC program analyst Lee Velten will be on hand with representatives from the Idaho Department of Transportation, U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Forest Service to detail out what is needed to secure a government contract.

“Doing business with the government is something that I feel like a lot of Shoshone County businesses and residents probably don’t understand that they have an opportunity for,” said Colleen Rosson, Silver Valley Economic Development Corporation coordinator.

Both Rosson and Velten stress that this event is a must-go for those who could offer their product or service to an agency in the region.

From something as complex as construction or plumbing to something as simple as signworks and promotional materials creation, your product or service could be exactly what a government entity is looking for.

“You would be amazed with what the government will contract for,” Velten said. “This workshop is for anyone looking to do business with the government.”

The workshop is designed to help attendees navigate the lengthy process of doing government contracting and finding the one that fits your product or service.

An added bonus for local businesses bidding for a government contract is the leg-up they get just for being based in the Silver Valley.

“If you are contracted through this program, funding is set aside for small, rural communities to receive preferential treatment on these contracts,” Rosson explained. “This equates to billions of dollars that is allocated to small communities like the Silver Valley.”

For more information on the event and to register to attend, visit https://bit.ly/2I5wbus.

The workshop must meet a certain number of registrations by Tuesday, March 3 or it will be canceled due to lack of participation.