HAPPY NEW YEAR!  HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW AS FY’24 KICKS OFF: The government is open, at least for now.  The circumstances under which that was made possible may not be ideal, but it is a lot better than what most people thought would happen as late as Saturday morning.  Here are three things contractors need to know/do right now. 

1.  A Continuing Resolution (CR) Has Plusses and Minuses:  All government agencies are open and have money to keep previously started projects going until at least mid-November.  No new projects that require appropriated money can start until Congress passes final FY’24 appropriations, nor can annual maintenance or subscription agreements be signed.  Still, there is plenty of work that can be done on current projects.  Bonus:  federal officials can participate in conferences for the next six weeks.

2.  Make Sure You Attend Those Events:  This is prime conference time in the government contracting industry.  Conferences are not only great ways to learn about new projects and rules but are also ideal venues to network with both fellow contractors and government attendees.  Remember that this business is at least one-half relationship driven.  If you’re sitting behind your desk from now until mid-December, you will be at a competitive disadvantage against those who participate in key events.

3.  Keep an Eye On Congress:  The political tides may be shifting on Capitol Hill.  It’s way too early to tell whether this means that there may be a shutdown in mid-November or whether there’s a chance for appropriations to pass before Christmas (the best-case scenario).  When and if new projects can start is all up to Congress, so contractors should watch that space, even if it looks like a soap opera.   Welcome to FY’24