About the Tribe
ESPS, a subsidiary of Eastern Shawnee Companies (ESC), operates under the ownership of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma (ESTO).
The Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma is located in Wyandotte, Oklahoma. In addition to ESC, the Tribe operates Indigo Sky Casino & Resort, Outpost Casino, and Shawnee Skies Training Center & Shooting Complex. The Tribe is also the majority shareholder in People’s Bank of Seneca. The Tribe has approximately 3,800 enrolled members.
To learn more about the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, visit https://estoo-nsn.gov/.
CAPABILITY STATEMENT
8(a) Consulting Services
Eastern Shawnee Professional Services (ESPS) is a premier consulting firm specializing in guiding socially and economically disadvantaged businesses through the complexities of the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program. Leveraging our deep expertise and commitment to client success, we assist organizations in achieving certification, securing contracts, and fostering sustainable growth within the federal marketplace.
What is the 8(a) Program?
The 8(a) Business Development Program, administered by the SBA, is designed to help small, disadvantaged businesses gain access to federal contracting opportunities, including sole-source contracts.
Why Pursue 8(a) Certification?
• Access to sole-source federal contracts
• Business development assistance from the SBA
• Competitive advantages in government contracting
• Nine years of program benefits
How Do You Qualify?
• Must be a small business
• At least 51% owned & controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals or a qualifying Tribal entity
• Demonstrate good character and financial capacity
The Eastern Shawnee Professional Services team has the same passion as I do - to create positive change in Indian Country. Their hands-on experience with navigating tribal business in the federal market is a rare find.
Michael Channell
Apex Accelerator - Project Manager
Where Do You Start?
Eastern Shawnee Professional Services provides a structured, step-by-step approach to successfully achieving and leveraging your 8(a) certification.
Our Six-Phase Approach
Our six-phase process ensures your business is strategically positioned for 8(a) certification and long-term success.
Phase 1: Defining Your Business Strategy
• Establish clear business goals and vision
• Align with Tribal stakeholders and community objectives
• Develop a strategic roadmap for growth
Phase 2: Structuring for Success
• Establish a compliant legal and governance structure
• Ensure SBA eligibility requirements are met
• Strengthen financial and operational frameworks
Phase 3: Building Your Market Presence
• Develop branding and outreach strategies
• Craft compelling government proposals
• Position your business for federal contracting
Phase 4: Expanding Business Development
• Identify key government agencies and contract opportunities
• Develop relationships with federal buyers
• Create a sustainable business pipeline
Phase 5: Preparing for 8(a) Certification
• Gather and organize necessary documentation
• Navigate the SBA application process
• Ensure readiness for a successful submission
Phase 6: Achieving & Leveraging Certification
• Finalize and submit the 8(a) application
• Address SBA feedback and compliance requirements
• Develop a long-term strategy for securing 8(a) contracts
Ongoing Support Beyond Certification
• Ensure continued compliance with 8(a) regulations
• Optimize business development strategies
• Maximize opportunities for growth and expansion
With deep expertise in federal contracting and Tribal business development, we guide you through every step to achieve and maximize your 8(a) certification.
