On today’s Daily Windup, I dive into the Community Care Network (CCN) and how it transformed the way the VA delivers care to veterans nationwide. My guest Lori Smith shares her journey from stepping in to support Region 4—spanning 14 Western states—to managing a staggering $128 billion healthcare contract portfolio that covers everything from IVF and dental to home health services. Today, through her work with AccuEligent, Lori is on a mission to help small, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses not only win contracts but also survive and thrive by understanding compliance, navigating payment delays, and preparing the right way. This episode unpacks what it really takes to serve the VA while avoiding the costly pitfalls that sink unprepared firms.

Key topics covered:

• How the VA’s Community Care Network reshaped veteran healthcare with a $128B contract portfolio.

• Lori Smith’s transition from managing CCN Region 4 to educating and supporting small businesses through AccuEligent.

• Common pitfalls contractors face—payment delays, compliance hurdles, and proposal fine print—and how to avoid them.

Learn more: https://govcongiants.org/