Illinois APEX Accelerator

at the Joseph Center®

The Illinois APEX Accelerator (formerly the Procurement Technical Assistance Center – PTAC) at The Joseph Center® is a portal for small businesses looking to enter the world of government contracting.

We are a part of a statewide network of procurement professionals dedicated to help local businesses compete successfully in the government marketplace. Funded under the Defense Logistics Agency’s Procurement Technical Assistance Program through cooperative agreements with state and local governments and non-profit organizations, APEX Accelerators are the bridge between buyer and supplier, bringing to bear our knowledge of both government contracting and the capabilities of contractors to maximize fast, reliable service to our government with better quality and at lower costs.

Our center provides technical information, marketing assistance and training to new and existing businesses interested in selling their goods and services to local, state, and/or federal government agencies.

Services Include:

  • No-cost, one-on-one advising tailored to your specific business needs

  • Workshops and seminars
  • Introduction to government contracting
  • Assistance in targeting the right certifications for your business

  • Access to government specifications and standards
  • Bid Match and Solicitation Finder

  • System for Award Management (SAM) Assistance
  • Teaming arrangements, joint ventures, mentor/protégé and subcontracting
  • Marketing and market research

Chris Hollingsworth

Director, Illinois APEX Accelerator at The Joseph Center®

Office: +1.708.697.6142

More About Chris

Marcus Streeter

Procurement Advisor, Illinois APEX Accelerator at The Joseph Center®

Office: +1.708.697.6111

More About Marcus

Looking for training?

Our center offers a variety of coursework that is designed to increase your business acumen and set you on the path for success. With instructor led webinars and workshops, as well as on-demand courses, our training options are designed to provide knowledge that is pertinent to business growth and sustainability.

view training and workshops

The Illinois APEX Accelerator at The Joseph Center® is provided through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense (DoD). Program support is made possible by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and The Joseph Center®.