B.I.D. Academy – Businesses In Development

The Road to Government Contracting starts here.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level?
Are you interested in expanding your income by acquiring the skills necessary to secure government contracts?Are you ready to invest in you and your business through a 9 session, 9 week, in person training that will start you on the path to government contracts?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, then the B.I.D. Academy is designed for you.

About the B.I.D. Academy

The B.I.D. (Businesses In Development) Academy, powered by the Community Economic Development Unit at Prairie View A&M University, is a FREE 9-session training program that equips small businesses with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to compete in government contracting.

The B.I.D. Academy is more than just a training — it’s a roadmap to make your business stronger, more competitive, and ready for government contracting. In partnership with the Texas Comptroller’s Purchasing Division, our mission is to increase participation in state and localcontracting opportunities and help business owners like you access millions of dollars in potential revenue through the statewide bidding process.

By joining the B.I.D. Academy, you will:

• Gain insider knowledge of how to work with state agencies, universities, school districts, and large industries.
• Learn practical business skills that strengthen your overall operations.
• Develop a clear roadmap to become the state of Texas certified.
• Build a competitive edge by creating a winning bid proposals.

What You’ll Learn – Core Training Sessions include:

The B.I.D. Academy curriculum covers the essential skills every small business needs to compete for government contracts:

1. Program Overview – Introduction to government contracting and the statewide bidding process.
2. Bookkeeping & Accounting – Financial management practices that prepare your business for growth.
3. Business Planning & Marketing – How to build a strong foundation and promote your services effectively.
4. Subcontracting Opportunities – Learn how to partner with larger firms to get started in contracting.
5. Nontraditional Financing – Explore alternative funding sources to support your business growth.
6. Bid Proposals – Guidance on crafting competitive bids.
7. Graduation & Networking – Showcase your business readiness and connect with potential partners.

Who Should Enroll?

The B.I.D. Academy is ideal for:

• Existing small businesses ready to pursue government contracting opportunities.
• Business owners who fit the HUB criteria looking to leverage HUB certification.
• Any business owner who wants to expand their revenue and credibility through contracting.
• Business owner looking to commit to the 9 sessions.

Certification & Commitment

• The program is delivered in person in a classroom format at various CED counties throughout the state.
• Attendance at all 9 sessions is required to earn your B.I.D. Academy Certificate of Completion.
• Each course includes presentations, assignments, hands-on activities, and a final exam to ensure participants are prepared for real-world success.

Upon graduation, you will walk away with not only a certificate but also a clear contracting strategy that positions your business for long-term growth.

Apply here
Small Business Needs Assessment