Government Jobs May Prove Strong in 2008

The government sector may prove a viable option for window film dealers this year. While some areas of the economy are announcing spending cutbacks, purchasing officials at state, local and educational entities are indicating they plan to maintain or increase government spending.

“Our findings are good news for many businesses selling to the government,” says Michael Balsam, vice president of products and services at Onvia. “Government spending for infrastructure should continue to help compensate for the residential construction downturn.”

The findings Balsam refers to are those of the 2008 Onvia Government Procurement Outlook. Onvia produces research and provides actionable sales opportunities and information to businesses through coverage of government purchasing activity. Its 2008 report summarizes the findings of a January 2008 survey of 1,400 purchasing officials at state, local and educational entities.

According to the results, government infrastructure and construction procurement will grow and benefit businesses such as architects, engineers and companies providing building products and construction services. Overall, 41 percent of agencies plan to increase spending activity on infrastructure in 2008 and 38 percent plan to maintain current spending activity levels. The South-Central U.S. region anticipates the most growth in government spending activity, while New England expects more moderate growth rates.