TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, has opened applications for Cohort 2 of the BRIDGE Proposal Lab – a powerful, cohort-based training and advisory program designed to help socially- and economically-disadvantaged individuals (SEDIs) and very small businesses (VSBs) compete for and win federal contracts and grants. Building on the success of Cohort 1 and TEDCO’s SBIR/STTR Proposal Lab, the expanded program serves Maryland, Delaware, Washington D.C., and Virginia.
Why This Matters
Federal funding can transform a business – but many SEDI and VSB firms face systemic barriers to accessing it.
The BRIDGE Proposal Lab helps level the playing field by providing step-by-step proposal training, advisory support, and access to resources that have already produced win rates 2.5x the national average.
What You’ll Gain
Participants will receive:
In-Depth Training in Government Business Development (12 months):
- 310 hours of self-paced curriculum in OST’s LMS
- Training in BD, capture, and proposal management
- Progress dashboards and completion metrics
- Optional U.S. Department of Labor Certificate upon passing final exam
Hands-On Proposal Support:
- Budget and cost proposal preparation
- Contract compliance and reviewer training
- Outline development and compliance mapping
- Graphics, editing, and publishing support
- Access to AI-based tools and application portals
Alumni Networking:
- Ongoing mixers and teaming bulletin board
- Long-term peer-to-peer relationships that strengthen small business competitiveness
Mentorship Cycle: Participants complete one cohort and then help mentor the next.
Cohort Model: Collaborative learning, peer-to-peer feedback, and tailored advisory support.
Who Should Apply
Entrepreneurs and business owners who are:
- SEDI- or VSB-owned
- Located in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, or Washington D.C.
- Ready to pursue competitive federal funding opportunities
Impact at-a-Glance
- 490 businesses projected to win federal awards
- $49M+ in anticipated federal funding secured
- Supported by TEDCO’s 16-Point Investment and Scale Readiness Framework
How to Apply
Applying is a 2-step process:
- Register for BRIDGE Register for BRIDGE. TEDCO reviews eligibility.
- Receive the application link. TEDCO sends eligible applicants the full application link.
The BRIDGE Proposal Lab accepts two cohorts per year. Cohort 1 filled the program quickly – early application is encouraged.
Learn more about the program and apply at https://www.ostglobalsolutions.com/bridge-proposal-lab/
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0009 awarded to Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
