Intergovernmental support agreements continue to evolve as installations look to enhance operations, save money and partner with their nearby communities. In 2023, Sourcewell, a self-funded government organization, signed a nationwide IGSA to procure services and goods for the Army, then expanded the model to other parts of the military. We asked CEO Chad Coauette how its partnerships work and what Sourcewell has learned.

ADC: How are Sourcewell’s IGSA agreements with the Army, Navy and Army Reserve driving cost savings and operational efficiencies?

Coauette: Sourcewell’s IGSAs provide military installations with fast, cost-effective access to cooperative contracts covering facility maintenance and repairs, small-scale construction, and operations supplies such as office supplies, maintenance tools and personal protective equipment. Installations can also procure equipment, including trailers, grounds maintenance equipment and material handling equipment like forklifts.

Sourcewell’s Installation Support Program team includes professionals with military experience who understand the unique needs of military operations. Their expertise in navigating procurement complexities reduces acquisition timelines and supports the efficient use of funding and assets, allowing installations to focus on mission-critical priorities.

ADC: How do these agreements help strengthen partnerships between military installations and local communities?

Coauette: Sourcewell is uniquely positioned to support both military installations and local government agencies. More than 50,000 government and education agencies nationwide use Sourcewell’s cooperative contracts to simplify procurement and achieve cost savings.

Sourcewell’s IGSA framework strengthens local vendor engagement while also providing installations with access to national cooperative purchasing power. In FY24, 55% of suppliers used through the Army-Sourcewell IGSA were small businesses, reinforcing a strong commitment to supporting local economies. This model complements existing local agency and defense community relationships.

ADC: What lessons has Sourcewell learned that can help other installations and defense communities maximize the benefits of government-government partnerships?

Coauette: A key takeaway is the importance of providing tailored solutions that meet each installation’s unique needs. Sourcewell’s dedicated team of experts works closely with installations to develop customized solutions that enhance readiness and efficiency.

Sourcewell’s IGSA agreements provide an additional pathway for installations to access mission-critical goods and services efficiently, reinforcing military readiness and operational effectiveness while focusing on their core mission—defending the nation.