From Layoff to Launch: Turning Setbacks into Contracts

The wave of layoffs impacting thousands of Black women, especially within federal agencies and government-funded organizations, has been an emotional and economic disruption, leaving many to wonder, “What’s next for me?”

The SOFEI Group believes that when systems shift, like changes in government policies, organizational restructuring, or technological advancements, this is an opportunity for redirection, not rejection. This season can be your turning point to reinvent yourself professionally to become a federal contractor or consultant for your previous employer.

Reframe Your Layoff as a Business Opportunity

As an employee, you possess what most business owners dream of: insider knowledge of industry operations. You are intimately familiar with the systems, protocols, and challenges. Your prior work experience is your power. Instead of seeking another job, consider a contracting or consulting opportunity as a 1099 consultant, virtual support provider, trainer, or project specialist.

Government agencies regularly hire former employees through contracting vehicles, micro-purchase programs, and professional service agreements.

Your Job Is Your First Client

Your former employer isn’t just your past; they can be your first client.

You are familiar with the organization’s challenges and goals, making you an ideal candidate for consulting or contracting work.

Instead of viewing your separation as an end, see it as a new beginning, a renewed partnership on your own terms.

Ask yourself:

• What daily problems did I solve that my agency still faces?
• How can I repackage those solutions as a paid service?
• Who within that agency could authorize a micro-contract or consulting engagement?

Your insider perspective is your competitive advantage. You’re not starting from zero, but from experience.

Identify Your Transferable Skills

Start by listing what you’ve mastered:

• Program Management
• Budget or grant administration
• Technical writing or policy documentation
• HR, Communications, IT, or Compliance

These “skills” are services agencies buy every day. If you know how to deliver value, learn how to invoice it.

Register and Reintroduce Yourself

To pivot into government contracting:

1. Register your business with your state.
2. Obtain a TIN from IRS.gov.
3. Register your business at SAM.gov.
4. Obtain a UEI number and business bank account.
5. Identify your NAICS codes (service classifications).
6. Create a capability statement (i.e., your business résumé).

Start Small, Then Scale

Begin by offering consulting services to your former department, professional network, or nonprofit partners that rely on federal funds. You can also explore micro-contracts under $10,000 that don’t require competitive bids.

Train Her Forward

The SOFEI Group’s Train Her Forward Initiative is designed for women ready to rebuild through entrepreneurship and government contracting. You’ll gain access to training, mentorship, and resources that help you:

• Structure your business.
• Develop a professional brand.
• Understand the contracting process.
• Build relationships with government buyers.

Because when women build sustainable businesses, they rebuild communities.

Closing Thought

You don’t have to wait for another opportunity; create it.
This moment is not your setback; it’s your setup.
Your job was never your identity, but your classroom.
Now, it’s time to become the business your former employer needs to hire next.