Jeff Anderson's journey from Marine Corps officer to federal prime contractor demonstrates exactly how the SBA Contracting Guide can transform a small business. His company, ATEK Distribution, provides a perfect roadmap for businesses under $1M looking to break into government contracting.
The Starting Point: Industry Experience Meets Opportunity
Jeff Anderson, President and Co-Founder of ATEK Distribution, started his business in 2018 after more than 24 years in electrical manufacturing and distribution. Just six years later, ATEK Distribution has seen significant growth through leveraging SBA resources, including official status as a PRIME Contractor with the United States Government.
Anderson's background provided technical expertise, but his military service gave him something equally valuable: Prior to starting his entrepreneurial journey, Anderson served as an Officer in the United States Marine Corps, where he attributes learning the value of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to accomplishing the mission. Those tenants serve as the building blocks for ATEK Distribution.
2018-2021: Building Foundation and Weathering Crisis
Anderson launched ATEK Distribution during a period that would test many small businesses. This was especially critical during 2020, where after just a couple years in business, there was major disruption in manufacturing and distribution. Anderson was able to pivot and start distributing PPE, which turned a challenge into an opportunity, as ATEK deepened current partnerships, and established new relationships.
This adaptability, supported by SBA resources, kept the business afloat: ATEK Distribution received a COVID EIDL loan and has since recovered from the impacts of the pandemic.
Spring 2021: The SBA Guide in Action
Anderson's real breakthrough came through systematic application of SBA resources and guidance. In spring of 2021, Anderson connected with APEX Accelerators, an SBA resource partner, who assisted him in obtaining Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) certification.
This certification opened specific opportunities: SDVOSB certification makes businesses eligible to compete for sole-source and set-aside contracts. At least 5% of all federal contracting dollars each year are set aside for SDVOSB's, and SBA and APEX Accelerators procurement assistance has played a vital role in ATEK securing several government contracts, and obtaining status as a PRIME U.S. Government contractor.
2023-2024: Systematic Growth and Recognition
Anderson didn't stop with certification. He invested in comprehensive business development through SBA programs: Alongside contracting technical assistance, Anderson also participated in the 2023 cohort of SBA's T.H.R.I.V.E Emerging Leaders program. Each year, the Minnesota District Office offers the executive-level training series intended to give ambitious small business leaders a challenging opportunity to accelerate their growth through targeted training.
The culmination came in September when ATEK Distribution secured their place on the GSA schedule, representing a major milestone for accessing federal contracts.
Anderson continued his professional development in 2024: On June 13, 2024, ATEK Distribution LLC was one of 51 businesses from 19 states to graduate from the Veteran Institute for Procurement (VIP) START Program.
Current Operations and Market Position
Today, ATEK Distribution operates in a market where opportunities continue to expand. In fiscal year 2024, small businesses received more than $183 billion in prime contracts from the federal government – 28.8% of all federal contracting dollars, representing the market Anderson now competes in as a prime contractor.
Key Success Factors From Anderson's Journey
- Systematic Certification Process: Following SBA guidance for SDVOSB certification
- Continuous Learning: Participating in multiple SBA training programs
- Strategic Partnerships: Working with APEX Accelerators and maintaining SCORE mentorship
- Market Timing: Leveraging disruption (COVID-19) as opportunity
- Professional Development: Ongoing education through VIP START and other programs
Lessons for Other Small Businesses
Anderson's success wasn't based on revolutionary innovation or unique market position. Anderson has a SCORE Mentor, who provides a second opinion on ATEK Distribution's growth plans. ATEK has also received several SBA Loans to aid and support the expansion of his business.
Instead, systematic application of available resources and structured approaches created sustainable competitive advantages. The future of ATEK Distribution is bright, with overarching goals to continue focusing on government contracting for sustained growth.
Replication Strategy for Small Businesses
Anderson's path provides a clear replication model:
- Start with solid industry experience and technical capabilities
- Obtain relevant certifications through SBA partner organizations
- Participate in SBA training and development programs
- Build relationships with prime contractors while developing direct capabilities
- Leverage crisis situations as growth opportunities
- Maintain continuous learning and professional development
The foundation Anderson built using SBA resources now supports continued growth in an expanding market, proving that systematic application of the contracting guide creates measurable, sustainable results.