JOHNSON ANNOUNCES INCREASED PROCUREMENT FUNDS TO HELP OHIO BUSINESSES SECURE GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 30, 2004

Columbus, OH -- State Development Director Bruce Johnson today announced that the Ohio Department of Development’s (ODOD) Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) Network, which helps Ohio businesses secure government contracts, has been awarded a 65 percent increase in its federal grant funds from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).

“The DLA has recognized the strong operating results of the Ohio PTAC Network,” Johnson said. “This federal grant award will help the PTACs to further assist Ohio’s small businesses as they create a solid supply base leading to their success and a stronger economic climate in Ohio.”

Johnson made the announcement at the 2004 PTAC luncheon at the Cherry Valley Lodge in Newark, where PTAC Network’s local offices and Ohio businesses owners were recognized for their efforts in trying to secure government contracts. The PTAC luncheon is also a time to promote the PTAC program and an opportunity for business owners to meet with legislators, hosts and strategic partners.

The DLA funds will assist Ohio’s PTACs in mentoring and counseling qualified contractors in the government procurement arena. The previous award level of $300,000 per year will now reach $495,000 annually. This one-year contract, with four renewable options, could result in a maximum of $2.5 million over five years.

The Ohio PTAC network is operated as a joint venture of the ODOD, the DLA and local partners that assist Ohio businesses sell to federal, state and local government agencies. The Network includes seven local offices that are based in organizations that serve rural, suburban and urban businesses in all sectors of the economy. The PTAC network enjoys significant relationships with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Defense Supply Center, Columbus and NASA Glenn Research Center. For more information on Ohio’s PTAC program and local service centers visit www.ohioptac.org.