Lessons from a Business Winning Government Work
I hope our Queensland readers are safe and recovering well after Cyclone Alfred. And yes, I know you’re probably sick of hearing about it by now, but events like these are a reminder of just how resilient business owners need to be, especially when facing uncertainty.
Speaking of resilience, let’s talk about securing government business. If you’re looking for long-term stability, landing government contracts isn’t just a “nice-to-have”, it’s a game-changer. Yet, so many businesses hesitate because they think the process is too complex or only for big players.
Here’s the reality: Winning government work isn’t about being the biggest, it’s about being prepared. It’s about knowing where to look, how to position your business, and understanding what decision-makers actually want. That’s where strategy and the right support makes all the difference.
In this newsletter, I’ll share the story of a Queensland business that’s successfully cracking the government code, take a look at whether the Australian Business Growth Fund is worth your time, and break down why engaging with government buyers the right way can make all the difference.
Cheers,
Tom Pollock
How Brand Hero Went from ‘Gov Curious’ to Winning Contracts
Twelve months ago, Brand Hero was like many businesses - interested in winning government contracts but unsure how to break in. They had the capability, the team, the track record, and almost 30 years’ experience in the private sector. What they didn’t have was a structured government engagement strategy.
That’s where Gov Ready stepped in. We developed a custom Government Engagement Plan (GEP), mapping out exactly what they needed to fix, improve, and focus on to become a standout supplier. Brand Hero powered through the recommendations made in their GEP, from refining their capability statement to sharpening their buyer outreach.
Fast forward to today, and they’re winning. They’ve secured local council contracts, proving their credibility in the government space. Even more exciting? They recently completed branding work for the Squash Australian Open, a project that came directly from the engagement model provided with their GEP.
Brand Hero’s long-term goal? Becoming a signage, print and design partner for the Queensland Government and the 2032 Olympics. And based on their momentum so far, they’re well on their way.
This is why we do what we do. Winning government business isn’t luck - it’s a process. And when you follow the right process, opportunities open up.
Want to see Brand Hero’s latest project? Check out their post here.
Some of Brand Hero’s recently completed branding work for the Squash Australian Open.
Developing Your Government Engagement Strategy
Discover how to position your business for success in the government sector with our upcoming webinar, Building Your Government Engagement Strategy. This session will guide you through a step-by-step approach to winning government business, helping you gain the clarity and confidence needed to engage effectively with government clients.
Who Should Attend:
Businesses looking to grow with government opportunities.
Business leaders seeking to enhance their growth strategies.
Sales and marketing leaders looking to expand into the government sector.
Based on our proven strategies for winning government business, this webinar will offer actionable insights and practical guidance to help your business thrive.
Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025 (this week!)
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (AEST)
Seats are limited. Register Here
Need Capital to Scale? The Australian Business Growth Fund Might Be Your Answer
For many small and medium businesses, securing the capital to scale, expand, or take on bigger opportunities can feel like a mountain that’s just too big and nasty to climb.
Banks want collateral.
Investors want control.
And loans come with strings attached.
But there’s a funding option that flies under the radar and I want more businesses to be aware of it – it’s called the Australian Business Growth Fund (ABGF).
Launched in 2020, ABGF is designed to help established SMEs grow without losing ownership. They invest between $5 million and $15 million in businesses with $2M-$100M annual revenue, taking only a minority stake (up to 49%). That means you keep control but get the capital and strategic backing to scale up faster.
So who’s actually benefiting? ABGF has already deployed over $180M into high-growth Australian businesses, backing companies like Modra Technology, a Victorian manufacturer of carpet production machinery. This funding is helping them expand, innovate, and win new markets—without the pressure of traditional private equity deals.
What’s in it for SMEs? Capital, connections, and credibility. Unlike standard bank loans, ABGF is in it for the long haul, offering growth support, expert guidance, and introductions to strategic networks.
Is it for everyone? No. But for ambitious, high-growth SMEs that need capital without giving up control, ABGF is worth looking into.
Interested? Find out more at abgf.com.au.
Short and Sweet!
2025 Forward Fest: Don't miss Forward Fest 2025, a five-day festival connecting over 1,500 world-class researchers, government entities, NFPs, small business owners, entrepreneurs, and higher degree students through networking and learning opportunities. Oh, and Gov Ready has been asked to present at Forward Fest as well, so come say hi!
Ignite+ Commercialisation and Growth Program: Drumroll, please! Advance Queensland’s Ignite+ Commercialisation and Growth Program has recently announced its new cohort. A massive congratulations to the 50 innovative Queensland businesses selected to receive tailored support, mentoring, and resources to accelerate their commercialisation efforts and drive business growth!
Government Support for Cyclone Alfred-Affected Businesses: The Queensland Government is offering financial assistance, including grants and loans, to businesses impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, aiding in recovery and continuity efforts. Click here for more info.
Ready to take the next step?
Start winning government business
We know from experience exactly what government decision-makers are looking for, and are eager to share this knowledge with you to give your business the best chance of success.
If you're serious about winning government business, but you're not sure where to start, we can help. Contact us.