TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, has launched 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 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:
Targeted Training in:
- Information Technology Services (cloud, cybersecurity, software development)
- Professional Services (management, financial, business services)
- Health Services and Health IT (clinical staffing, medical research, health analytics)
- Logistics & Facilities Support (transportation, base ops, maintenance)
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
Full OST Global Solutions Curriculum (~310 hours) through our LMS
Cohort Model: Collaborative learning, peer-to-peer feedback, and tailored advisory support
Mentorship Cycle: Participate in one full cohort and then mentor the next
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:
- Step 1 – Register for BRIDGE. TEDCO will review the registration form and confirm eligibility.
- Step 2 – Once eligibility is confirmed, TEDCO will notify potential applicants and provide an application link.
The BRIDGE Proposal Lab accepts two cohorts per year. Space is limited—early application is recommended.
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.
