Small Business Fuels Big Growth Through Defense Contracting
How the Florida APEX Accelerator is helping 5FOLD Engineering master federal procurement
Since opening in 2021, 5FOLD Engineering has established itself as a trusted provider of precision-engineered solutions for the defense industry. Located in the City of Seminole, Florida, the small business operates with a team of nine, with plans to expand in the next six to eight months. Utilizing the services of Yolanda Goodloe at the Florida APEX Accelerator at Pinellas County Economic Development, 5FOLD has grown through collaborations with industry powerhouses like ARA and General Motors.
Aaron Griggs, 5FOLD Engineering Partner and Chief Engineer, explains, “Working with Yolanda has been instrumental to our mission of delivering high-quality engineering solutions. Her guidance in developing a comprehensive capabilities statement gave us the confidence to pursue contract opportunities, knowing our strengths and competencies were clearly showcased to potential clients.”
5FOLD Engineering’s business model emphasizes maximum productivity with minimal waste, enabling the company to deliver solutions that meet strict defense standards. The company’s core competencies span engineering, analysis and simulation, prototyping, CNC machining, welding, and sheet metal fabrication. These types of capabilities support a diverse range of products, including satellite communication components, military vehicle integrations, tactical power generation systems, and weapon support equipment.
Marketing those proficiencies to the defense industry is a logical step, but navigating the federal procurement process can be a challenge. “Small businesses like 5FOLD Engineering often lack the connections and resources to consistently identify and respond to contract bids,” says Goodloe. “That’s where the Florida APEX Accelerator plays a critical role: we equip companies with the tools to compete effectively and help them access the right procurement opportunities to accelerate their growth.”
Pinellas County Economic Development (PCED) partners with the Florida APEX Accelerator to provide on-site support to businesses looking to break into and succeed in the federal, state, and local government contracting marketplace. Services include consulting, training, and networking activities – all at no cost to clients. “Partnering with APEX provides our team with an extra set of tools to support small business in Pinellas County,” says PCED Director Dr. Cynthia Johnson. “5FOLD Engineering is an excellent example of how a small business can access new ways to grow when provided with expert guidance and support. “We’re committed to providing this level of assistance with excellence.”
Learn more about 5FOLD Engineering at www.fivefoldengineering.com.
To explore the full breadth of small business services provided by Pinellas County Economic Development, contact our office at (727) 464-7332, or visit www.PCED.ORG/SmallBiz.
About Pinellas County Economic Development
Pinellas County Economic Development (PCED) works with existing businesses to encourage expansion and seeks to attract new companies with high-wage careers to our community. Through investment tools, business classes, professional consulting services, trade missions to open new markets, and strategic partnerships, PCED fosters a pro-business environment and promotes the ideal business climate of Pinellas County, Florida. Learn more at www.pced.org.
