Security, Politics & Tech: How Firms Are Working with the Government, Not Against It

Due to the rise of “big tech”, the federal government has gotten more involved in the tech sector in recent years. Due to this shift, top tech companies are increasingly partnering with the government to not only further their own success but also the success of the United States.

By working together with the federal government, tech companies can help improve the U.S. government’s technology and security systems while securing additional revenue through government contracting opportunities.

Improving Government Technologies

Top tech companies routinely innovate to create new solutions and help improve existing ones. These innovations can help the federal government with technological development in a wide range of areas. In December 2021, President Joe Biden announced an executive order, which includes the goal of using technology to modernize government services, improving the user experience, and making services more accessible to all.

Sid Banerjee, Chief XM Strategy Officer of Qualtrics, believes that it is a great opportunity for companies, “There’s an opportunity to do this in the government space, to help… citizens — trying to get in and out of government agencies in an efficient way. So, there is a huge opportunity to do that, not in just the commercial space but even in the government space going forward.”

Advancing U.S. Security

As the U.S. is facing increased cybersecurity threats, it is important for the government to be able to keep up with advances in information security. By working with the federal government, tech companies can work to improve the national cybersecurity defense and help keep the country safe.

According to Leon Panetta, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, if the government and tech companies work together then, “America can present to the world a united front that I think can represent a kind of force we need in order to leapfrog technology into the future.”

Government Contracting Opportunities

The U.S. federal government is the world’s largest buyer of goods and services—spending more than $600 billion annually, with approximately one-quarter going to small businesses. All sizes of tech companies that specialize in cybersecurity, information technology, simulation, software, technical consulting, and more can compete for and leverage the vast array of related government contracting opportunities.

Looking to increase your odds of being awarded a government contract? Fairfax County businesses received $31 billion in federal contract awards in 2021. In addition, Fairfax County businesses receive 45% of contracts awarded in Virginia and 5% of all federal procurement contracts.

If you are looking to expand or relocate your business to an area with access to the federal government and a high level of government contract awards, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority is here to help. Fairfax County offers a network of companies and resources to bolster a successful future. To learn more about doing business in Northern Virginia, visit our website.

Editor’s Note: Qualtrics CEO quote was previously provided for the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority Commission, December 13, 2021.