Native and tribally owned 8(a) organizations can create federal contracting paths that many manufacturers, dealers, and reps do not fully understand. While “Super 8(a)” is an informal Catalyst term rather than an official SBA designation, these entity-owned businesses can have contracting capabilities that differ significantly from a traditional 8(a).

This month’s Catalyst Conversation goes beyond 8(a) basics to focus on the real opportunity: how manufacturers and dealers can strategically work with Native and tribally owned organizations to pursue federal business. We’ll explore what each partner brings to the relationship, why federal customers may value these procurement paths, and why successful partnerships need to begin before an opportunity appears.

Joining Michelle is Karl Schrumpf, who has experienced these relationships from multiple sides. He has worked with manufacturers including Kimball and Herman Miller/MillerKnoll and inside Flatwater, a tribally owned organization. His experience gives him a practical perspective on how manufacturers, dealers, and tribal entities can work together to create federal opportunities.