The presentation will provide a review of past experiences of achievements, challenges, and lessons learned in working with small to medium sized companies within the Federal Contracting marketplace whom were preparing for successful achievement of a CMMI Maturity Rating. Discussion will focus on: 1. Common business initiatives to becoming competitive and qualified to do business within the Federal market 2. The approach and establishment of value added processes that are lean and in-line with strategic missions and business objectives. 3. Focus on examples of infrastructure architecture, resource management, business principles, and tool capabilities that support growth and improvement.