Strategic Growth Opportunities
Nonprofit & Government Business
Context
The City of New York spends hundreds of millions of dollars on food purchases every year. The city buys food directly from distributors and indirectly through contractors, such as nonprofits. Government contracting – whether directly or indirectly – is big business and a growth opportunity, especially for local businesses and minority and women owned enterprises, who benefit from contracting preferences.
Last year, nonprofit organizations spent more than $50 million on food purchases in connection with their city contracts for services like after school programs, shelters for families who are homeless and older adult centers. With well documented fiscal constraints, these organizations are often looking for opportunities to bring down costs through diversifying spending and increased competition in the marketplace. New business partners can improve a nonprofit’s bottom line, close gaps in funding and offer new supports for tired and overworked staff.
Consulting Engagement
Woolco Foods, Inc., a 30 year-old local food distributor, had historically served institutional clients – restaurants, bars, caterers and hotels. Identifying a growth opportunity in the nonprofit and government sectors, Woolco partnered with 1digit to establish in-house expertise in these consumer areas and develop a business expansion strategy. Through the collaboration, Woolco now understands the New York City nonprofit and government landscape, the ins and outs of doing business with government-funded nonprofits, and can search for, identify and bid on government contracts. Through a 1digit partnership, Woolco is poised for expansion and growth!
