(June 12, 2024) — Eastern Shawnee Professional Services (ESPS), an Eastern Shawnee Companies (ESC) subsidiary and wholly owned by the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma (ESTO), proudly announces its successful attainment of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program certification. This notable achievement marks a significant milestone for the company and opens doors to a plethora of growth opportunities in the government contracting arena.
“Attaining recognition as a participant in the SBA’s Business Development Program marks a crucial juncture in the progression of Eastern Shawnee Companies,” stated Matt Metcalf, CEO of Eastern Shawnee Companies. “The 8(a) certification grants our business the ability to vie for and secure set-aside and sole-source contracts directly from the federal government.”
The Small Business Administration’s 8(a) certification is a prestigious designation reserved for small businesses that demonstrate potential for success, growth, and contribution to the economy. With this certification, ESPS is poised to broaden its reach and enhance its competitiveness in securing government contracts across various industries. It provides access to specialized business training, counseling, marketing assistance, and access to sole-source government contracts, thereby facilitating the development and expansion of participating businesses.
The benefits of the 8(a) certification extend beyond ESPS, as it will foster economic development within the ESTO community. By leveraging this certification, the company aims to further strengthen its position as a leading provider of professional services while contributing to the prosperity and well-being of the ESTO.
ESTO Chief Glenna Wallace emphasized the importance of ESPS to qualify for the SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program. “I celebrate this achievement as a major milestone for the Tribe, foreseeing its potential to diversify the business portfolio, bolster the economy, foster job creation, and fortify intertribal relations in the long run. Attaining 8(a) status has been a long-time goal of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. It is with great pride and exhilaration that we announce this achievement, and we look forward to more future successes.”
About the Eastern Shawnee Companies
Eastern Shawnee Companies, LLC (ESC), is a board-governed holding company that proudly represents a collection of tribally owned small businesses providing professional and construction services. As a wholly owned subsidiary of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, ESC is deeply committed to enhancing and supporting tribal sovereignty while delivering sustainable solutions for our diverse range of tribal, federal, government, and private clients. To learn more about the Eastern Shawnee Companies, visit www.easternshawneecompanies.com.
About the Tribe
The Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma is located in northeast Oklahoma. The Tribe operates Indigo Sky Casino & Resort, Outpost Casino, and Shawnee Skies Training Center & Shooting Complex. In addition, the Tribe is the majority shareholder in People’s Bank of Seneca. The Tribe has approximately 3,800 enrolled members. To learn more about the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, visit https://estoo-nsn.gov/.