In this episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Michelle Burnett, an influential figure in the world of government contracting and the executive director of the HUBZone Contractors National Council. With almost a decade devoted to advocating for the HUBZone program, Michelle shared invaluable insights to aid small businesses navigating the federal marketplace. Michelle’s expertise in the HUBZone program stems from years of commitment, both as a consultant for small businesses and as a contractor herself. Her dual roles as an advocate and a practitioner have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies within the government contracting landscape. Throughout our conversation, Michelle emphasized the importance of collaboration for small business owners. Her advice echoed the essence of partnership and collaboration as key components for success. "You cannot be good at everything," she noted. "Collaboration with other businesses is essential. Don’t limit your networking to target agencies; expand and connect with fellow businesses." Beyond her role as the executive director, Michelle is also the driving force behind PEPBURN LLC, her own company designed to support small businesses in navigating various government programs. Her multifaceted experience lends a unique perspective to her advocacy efforts and practical advice for thriving in the government contracting sphere. Tune in to this episode as Michelle Burnett shares her wealth of knowledge, offering insights and strategies crucial for small businesses aiming to excel in the federal marketplace and thrive within the HUBZone program. Join us in understanding the program's nuances and leveraging Burnette's expertise to propel your business forward in the competitive government contracting landscape.