I am exploring a tech startup business idea that would provide a data service to the federal government. In order to validate the concept, I need to understand, in some detail, a particular function of a specific government agency. I would like to speak with someone who has previously held a specific role at the agency (ideally in the past couple of years). The role is neither executive management nor entry-level -- somewhere in between. I estimate that there are several hundred people currently with this role and perhaps a thousand people who have previously held the role. The government agency would be a major target customer for my business. Depending on how the agency operates, it could have significant ramifications for how I build my product. It could even render the business model invalid. Before building a prototype and getting in front of the right decision maker, I would like to confirm that the prototype would be worthwhile and solve a real need. Do any of the expert networks like GLG, AlphaSights, etc. specialize in government? I have tried LinkedIn but nobody in my network can introduce me to someone who has held this particular role at this agency. How could I get connected with this person?
I've worked on large civilian and defense projects for the Federal Government while working for two top-tier management/technology consulting firms and one smaller technology consulting firm. Have you considered approaching some of the big management/technology consulting firms that do most of their work with the federal government? I'm thinking about companies like Booz Allen Hamilton, CSC and SAIC.
I'm pretty sure these companies have the contacts within the federal government agency you'd like to speak to about your project. The Partners at these companies usually have a pretty good idea what the agencies are looking for, so you may want to think about validating the idea through the companies, leveraging their network of connections. Many of the Partners have come from the Federal government.
If the companies see your product as a valuable service, they can then help you get in front of the right people at the federal government agency to speak to about it.
I have a pretty strong network within companies like this and would be happy to discuss further on a call. Either way, best of luck to you!
Answered 9 years ago
Access 20,000+ Startup Experts, 650+ masterclass videos, 1,000+ in-depth guides, and all the software tools you need to launch and grow quickly.
Already a member? Sign in