Margarita Howard and HX5: A Success Story in Government Contracting

 Margarita Howard’s journey as the founder and CEO of HX5 is a testament to her determination and
business acumen in the competitive field of government contracting. Established
in 2004, HX5 has become a trusted provider of professional mission support services to
federal space and defense government agencies. 

Howard’s motivation to start HX5 stemmed from her awareness of the socioeconomic set-aside
opportunities for veteran, woman-owned, small businesses. Having worked with
large businesses in the past, she understood the importance of both the small
business aspect and the competitive nature of government contracting. This
drove her to establish HX5, which was named after her family. 

One pivotal moment for HX5 was when Howard entered the Small Business Administration’s 8(a)
program. This nine-year training program provided mentorship and support
services to business owners who are socially and economically disadvantaged.
With the 8(a) accreditation, HX5 gained the ability to bid on and win contracts
up to several million dollars, which helped the company gain traction in the industry. 

However, Howard’s vision for HX5 went beyond relying solely on sole-source awards from the SBA.
She wanted to build a company that could compete independently and sustainably.
To achieve this, Howard made strategic investments in infrastructure, such as an
industry-recognized accounting system approved for government contracts. This
early investment paid off, making HX5 an attractive partner for large
businesses seeking to meet small business goals in government contracts. 

Competing for federal government contracts in 2024 requires a nuanced approach. Howard
recognized the importance of understanding specific federal agencies’ missions
and building relationships with key decision-makers. She also emphasized the
need to target opportunities that align with HX5’s core competencies and expertise. 

As a female CEO in a male-dominated industry, Margarita
Howard faced additional challenges. However, she overcame biases and established her
credibility through her competencies and professional approach. Under her
leadership, HX5 has prioritized diversity and promoted women to leadership
roles, with the majority of the management team being women. 

Looking ahead, Howard is focused on sustaining HX5’s current size while remaining committed to
its core values. Her strategic vision, resilience, and emphasis on teamwork
have positioned HX5 for continued success in the competitive landscape of government contracting. 

In conclusion, Margarita Howard’s journey with HX5 showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and
determination to build a company that competes and thrives in the government
contracting market. With a focus on strategic investments, building a talented
team, and prioritizing client missions, HX5 has established itself as a prime
contractor in a highly competitive industry. 

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Find more information about Howard on https://www.apnnews.com/margarita-howards-insight-into-hx5s-competitive-edge-in-government-contracting/