Growth Opportunities for International Companies in 2010 Eliot Norman International Practice Group  [email_address] Williams Mullen, Washington, DC 202.833.9200 or Direct 804.783.6482 Stimulus Act Funding of Private and  Public Sector Projects  Strategic Use of  M&A and Joint Ventures Government Contracts
February 2009
February 2009
 
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) Signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009 Provides a total of $787 billion in funds Unprecedented level of funding designed to help create and save jobs, jumpstart the economy, and build the foundation for long-term economic growth
Result?
Practical Reaction of clients? Varied depending upon industry sector
Our  Agenda  1.  Whe re is the Money    being spent? Where are the new opportunities?  2. How Much has Been   Spent So far? 3. Can Foreign    Companies    participate in    Stimulus Act   Projects? 4. Steps for Success:    legal considerations    and practical    strategies
More Detailed Analysis of Those 4 Questions Where are the Stimulus Act Opportunities for  Public Sector Projects? Stimulus Act incentives: Direct Funding, Tax Credits/Loan Guarantees and Grants  “ Level Playing Field” For Foreign Companies?  Availability of Financing/Commercial Banking Services for Business Expansion Strategic Use of Acquisitions & Joint Ventures: Smart Approach in 2010? Government Contracts Strategies  Top 10 “Take-Away”  Points: Services Required and  Steps for Success
Topics #1 and #2: U.S. Stimulus Act  Follow the Money: Where   is it  being spent? What are the new opportunities?   How Much has Been   Spent So far? How Much remains to be allocated?
Follow the Money: U.S. Stimulus Act Allocations? “Shovel-ready jobs?” Roads and Bridges?
Follow the Money: U.S. Stimulus Act Allocations? “Shovel-ready jobs?” Roads and Bridges?
ARRA: Spending Provisions Funds designated to the following sectors: Energy and Environment: $98  billion Transportation: Rail, roads and bridges: $49 Billion .  Only 50% of Energy/Environment . Defense and Security: $16.448 billion Agriculture and Rural Development: $15.986 billion Biomedical research $10 billion
3 rd  Generation Photovoltaic Cells
How Much Has Been Spent? Small percentage spent  to date at federal, state or local levels Examples: Dept. of Energy: 5.1% of $35.1 billion; Commerce:17.7% of $2.9 billion; Transportation Dept.: 17.7% of $44.8 billion; EPA (Environmental) 10.8% of $6.8 billion. Much Federal Spending to date has been in grants to States and Cities who have yet to fund projects. Over $206.5 Billion has yet to be allocated for future spending.  This creates "sales opportunity.“ Governments are inviting proposals for projects. Conclusion:  it is not too late, it's still early in the game, even 11 months after passage of the legislation.
How Much Has Been Spent? Additional Considerations   New and expanded federal tax incentives and revolving loan programs will continue to drive sustainability and related efficiency projects. January 13, 2010 CEA Report confirms this analysis Green Building initiatives: not off the ground (WSJ Article)
The Match between  Converteam and Williams Mullen  Converteam:  Energy & Infrastructure  Williams Mullen: Energy Engineering Legal Practice  Focus of WM’s Project Development Work:  Assistance with Federal Grants/Loans/Procurements As project counsel, we have assisted clients with structuring and negotiating more than  100  large energy (conventional and new energy), infrastructure and industrial projects in the following representative roles: Contract Counsel: 89 Projects Energy Counsel: 64 Projects Environmental Counsel: 36 Projects Finance Counsel: 40 Projects Ownership Counsel: 51 Projects Project Coordinator: 18 Projects Project Planning: 66 Projects Real Estate/Land Use Counsel: 28 Projects Tax Counsel: 53 Projects
Why Partner with Williams Mullen?  Converteam Energy & Infrastructure R&D Recovery Act $ Public & Private Sector Projects  Teaming Arrangements Strategic M&A/Joint Ventures Williams Mullen Energy  & Infrastructure with Focus on Energy Engineering Legal Issues Project Development Experience  Contract Counsel:  Full range of  agreements related to the procurement, development, construction, joint venture, and operation and maintenance of energy and infrastructure facilities.
examples of representative projects  from Slides in october 2009
Public and Private Sector Opportunities  Public Projects Federal State local Private Projects PP3 (Public-Private Partnerships)
Where is the Money Going? What are the Opportunities  For International Companies?  Going to Many Sectors where Foreign companies are already market or technology leaders  Urban Transit and Rail Transportation  Water quality  and Wastewater Treatment Plants  Environmental, Natural Resources,  Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Smart Grid Medical Research, Biomedical Research, Medical Technologies particularly Health Care IT  ($19 Billion) Building out the Broadband Infrastructure  ($5 Billion)  Green Investments and Green Buildings ($46 Billion)  List is enormous and diverse, affecting nearly all sectors—from airport body scanners  to vaccines
Update on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 Business Opportunities by Industry Sector (A-Z) Thomas O. Mason August 20, 2009
ARRA:  Energy & Environmental $5 billion for the Weatherization Assistance Program $3.1 billion for the State Energy Program $2.73 billion for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants $2.0 billion for Advanced Battery Manufacturing Grants  $800 million for the Biomass Program  $454 million for Retrofit ramp-ups in energy efficiency  $400 million for the Geothermal Technologies Program  $400 million for Transportation Electrification  $346 million for Energy efficient building technologies  $256 million for the Industrial Technologies Program  $93 million for Wind energy projects  $50 million for Information and Communications technology  $41.9 million for Fuel Cell Markets
GREEN BUILDING Over $46.05 billion in funding for energy-efficiency retrofits and renewable energy projects $100 million for US Navy and Marine Corps facilities for energy conservation and alternative energy projects Expansion of homeowner tax credit program: Energy-efficiency improvement tax credit increase from 10% to 30% of the costs of the improvements up to $1500 per year in 2009 and 2010 $2.3 billion in New Clean Energy Manufacturing Tax Credits
ARRA:  Health Care $19 billion for Medicare and Medicaid to ensure widespread adoption and use of interoperable health information technology (IT) $24.7 billion to subsidize COBRA health insurance premiums (at 65% level for 9 months) for workers who have lost their jobs $10 billion to the National Institute of Health to conduct biomedical research  $1.1 billion for comparative effectiveness research to evaluate the relative effectiveness of different health care services and treatment options
ARRA:  Health Care  (cont’d) $2 billion for Health Information Technology (HIT) grants, training, infrastructure, dissemination of best practices, telemedicine, and clinical education $50 million for pandemic flu/BARDA $1 billion for prevention and wellness programs to fight preventable diseases and conditions
Telecommunications/Broadband
ARRA:  Technology and Communications $2.5 billion for the Department of Agriculture for distance learning, telemedicine, and programs that increase broadband access and usage $4.7 billion for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration  Broadband  Technology Opportunities Program for competitive grants to accelerate broadband deployment in unserved and underserved areas, with at least $200 million for competitive grants for expanding public computer center capacity and at least $250 million for competitive grants for innovative programs for sustainable broadband adoption
Public Sector: Examples of Stimulus Act Projects New Green Building Coast Guard HQ, Washington D.C. $493 million Add Solar Roof on Federal Courthouse, Richmond, VA  $1-5 million IT consulting, Social Security Administration $95 million Disposal of Nuclear Waste, Los Alamos National Laboratory, $10 million Architectural/Engineering Services, Waste Water Treatment Facilities $5 milion Smart Grid Power Distribution System, Philadelphia Steam Lines, Electrical Systems, $387 million, Dept. of Energy Geospatial Products and Services, Dept. of Interior, Denver, Colorado, $250 million Biomedical Research $5 billion in grants announced 09/30/09,
Private Sector: Examples of Stimulus Act Projects 1. Alstom (American Electric Power Co.), Clean coal technologies in West Virginia, $334 million 2. Iberdrola, Five wind farms (Texas, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Minnesota), $294 million 3. Saft, Factory to manufacture lithium ion cells and batteries, Jacksonville, FL, $95.5 million 4. Johnson Controls – Saft, Batteries for hybrid vehicles, Holland MI and Lebanon, OR, $299.2 million 5. ArcelorMittal, Blast furnace gas flare capture, East Chicago, IN, $31.6 million
Clean Energy:   Cameron Prell Sean King
The New (Green) Deal: Clean Energy and the Stimulus Bill “ The country that harnesses the power of clean, renewable energy will lead the 21 st  century.” U.S. President Barack Obama, February 24, 2009
ARRA Clean Energy Strategy  Spur innovative technology Reduce greenhouse gases Re-establish U.S. manufacturing capability focused on energy Reconstitute aging power and water infrastructure  International companies should be able to lead the way because of technological advances overseas
The old energy project
The new energy project
ARRA Clean Energy: Level of Funding  Direct appropriations for energy-related projects and technologies equal to approximately ($72 billion) Tax credits and other financial incentives for projects and energy equipment ($22 billion +)  The U.S. Treasury direct grant program equal to potentially 30% of total qualifying energy property investment  Expansion and “rapid deployment” of DOE loan guarantee program ($6 billion appropriation; $60 billion in loans) Expansion and establishment of new bond mechanisms ($4 billion for energy projects) Massive funding for state and local energy programs
ARRA Energy-Related Focus  Energy efficiency Green buildings Renewable energy projects “ Smart Grid” technology & infrastructure, including $11 billion for electrical grid projects  Clean coal deployment ($3.4 billion for Fossil Energy R&D) Advanced biofuels and green vehicles Cleantech
Examples of  Clean Energy Financial Incentives  Direct Investment Investment Tax Credit (“ITC”) Production Tax Credit (“PTC”) Federal Block Grants Advanced Energy Project Credits Clean Renewable Energy Bonds Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds Potential Carbon “Cap and Trade”, Carbon Management benefits
Funding State and Local Programs Not all the money is at the Federal Level Weatherization Financial Assistance Program ($5 billion) Green Building ($4.5 billion)  Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program ($3.2 billion) State Energy Funding Program (discretionary funding for “shovel ready” energy and water projects)
Advanced Energy Project Credits ARRA expands  30% Investment Tax Credit  for any Qualifying Advanced Energy Project that re-establishes, expands or constructs a manufacturing facility to produce the following equipment: Renewable energy systems (including solar, wind and geothermal) Fuel Cells Microturbines Electric/hybrid Cars, Batteries & Equipment Renewable Grids/Smart Grids Carbon Capture & Sequestration Renewable Fuels Refining or Blending Energy Conservation Technologies
Stimulus Act Case Study – Wind Energy Iberdrola Renovables (Spain)  World’s largest wind energy firm 2 nd  largest wind energy producer in U.S. Headquartered in Valencia, Spain Has formed U.S. subsidiary to import components and exploit its technology Expected to receive $400 to $500 million in ARRA (Stimulus Act)  grants for U.S. projects before the end of 2009  Has remained profitable despite downturn and falling fossil fuel prices
2008 Foreign Owners of U.S. Wind Energy Farms Stimulus Act has Accelerated Trend to Foreign Ownership  NextEra Energy Resources 6290.1 Iberdrola Renewables 2063.4 (Spain) MidAmerican Energy 1939.5 Horizon-EDP Renewables 1872.7 (Portugal) Invenergy 1276.5 Babcock & Brown 1118.8 Edison Mission Group 959.9 AES 956.7 E.On Climate and Renewables 726.9  (Germany) John Deere Wind 527.3 enXco 527.0 (affiliate of EDF Energies Nouvelles, a French Company) Shell Wind Energy 449.0 Puget Sound Energy 385.2 Terra-Gen Power 368.5 Duke Energy 321.5 AEP 310.5 Eurus 296.6 (Japan) Noble Environmental Power 282.0 Orion Energy Group 280.5 Enel North America 249.3 (Italy) Others 4167.1
Stimulus Act Tax Incentives Production Tax Credit Investment Tax Credit Note re: Rangel technical corrections re: ability to refund credits Grant in lieu of ITC
Other Inbound Investment Considerations: Tax and Treaty Eligibility .  Corporate vs. LLC form: Corporations do not have "flow through" tax treatment and hence are required to file tax returns.  Limited liability companies, on the other hand, have "flow-through" tax treatment and are not required to file income tax returns; rather their parent companies must file income tax returns in the United States.  Since most foreign companies do not want to file tax returns in the United States, the preferred form of entity for U.S. operations of foreign companies most often is the corporation.
Taxes Worldwide Income Taxation (subject to foreign tax credit regime)  Income Tax .  The revenue generated by the U.S. subsidiary or U.S. operations of a foreign business will be subject to taxation in the U.S.  This tax is assessed at the federal and state levels. Federal Tax .  Federal income tax rates are set depending upon many factors. Federal corporate tax rates range between 15% and 39%; the average tax rate is typically 35%. State Tax .  State income tax rates are set forth on a state by state basis.  The current rate for corporate income tax in North Carolina is 6.9%.  This is lower than many other states, including California (8.84%) and New York (7.5%-9%). Accounting considerations (FIN 48; permanent establishment, etc.)
International Tax Planning Permanent Establishment: initial assessment of taxable presence; Transfer pricing: Where to direct profit: Profit Drivers: Capital; Function; Know how (and other intangibles); Risk
International Tax Planning Financing: debt-to-equity considerations (including section 163(j) restrictions); Treasury Management – repatriation planning Where a treaty is absent LOB provisions and treaty “shopping” Holding company planning techniques
Topic # 3 “ Level Playing Field for Foreign Companies”?
The Level Playing Field
Can Foreign Companies Participate in ARRA Projects? Common Perception:   Given the purpose of ARRA, and its Buy American Provisions, Stimulus Projects must be  reserved for U.S. companies and U.S. manufactured products  ARRA states:  Any ”project for …public building or public work” can use Stimulus funds only if all the iron, steel and manufactured goods are produced in the United States.” Buy American? But ARRA also says that :  “This section shall be applied in a manner consistent with U.S. obligations under international agreements:”  WTO obligations apply.   Reality: Significant exceptions to Buy American Provisions  exist and can benefit  Foreign companies:  Buy American Act Provisions not a major issue Proof: Look no further than  Iberdrola Renovables or SAFT/Johnson Controls
 
  Application of “Buy American” provisions would contradict U.S. obligations under international agreements; The United States and the company’s foreign country are signatories to the WTO-GPA.  The WTO-GPA prohibits Application of the BUY AMERICAN ACT to Stimulus Act  procurements by Federal Agencies and 37 State or other government authorities “ Buy American” provisions affecting Stimulus Act public construction projects  do not prevent foreign company from being contractor  or supplier when:
Who Has Signed the WTO-GPA? Parties and Date of entry into Force/Accession:  Canada  1 January 1996  European Communities  with regard to its 27 member States:  Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom1 January 1996Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovak Republic and Slovenia 1 May 2004 Bulgaria and Romania 1 January 2007 Hong Kong , China  19 June 1997  Iceland  28 April 2001  Israel  1 January 1996  Japan  1 January 1996  Korea  1 January 1997  Liechtenstein 18 September 1997  the Netherlands with respect to Aruba 25 October 1996 Norway  1 January 1996  Singapore 20 October 1997  Switzerland 1 January 1996  Chinese Taipei  15 July 2009  United States  1 January 1996  
Result:  A Foreign WTO-GPA  company is eligible to bid , because Annex 1 to GPA lists U.S. Department of Transportation (but not Federal Aviation Administration) among covered central government entities.  Example 1:  U.S. Department of Transportation (but not Federal Aviation Administration) solicits bids for Stimulus Act  project.
Result:  A foreign WTO-GPA  company is eligible to bid ,   because Annex 2 to GPA lists Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (but not South Carolina  Department of Transportation) among covered sub-central government entities. Example 2:  Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (but not South Carolina  Department of Transportation) solicits bids for project.
WTO GPA (STATES (OMC-AMP ETATS)
Result:  A foreign WTO-GPA  company is eligible to bid ,  because Annex 3 to GPA lists Port of Baltimore (but not City of Charleston) among other covered entities. Example 3:  Port of Baltimore (but not City of Charleston) solicits bids for project.
Application would increase project’s overall cost by more than 25%. Application would contradict “the public interest.”;  or U.S. companies do not produce goods “in sufficient and reasonably available quantities” and of “satisfactory quality”;  or  Company Can Obtain WAIVERS  of Buy American Provisions in Stimulus Act  Additional Loopholes :  Buy American” provisions affecting stimulus-package public construction projects  do not prevent a foreign company from being contractor  when:
Between 7 April 2008 and 17 September 2009, 18 Federal Register notices from U.S. government entities including Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Commerce and Department of Agriculture have granted: -- 13 “unavailability” waivers; and  -- 5 “public interest” waivers. Remember:  “ International agreements” do not provide only exception to “Buy American” requirements.
Stimulus Act: Lets Assume That “Buy American” Provisions  Apply A Foreign  company can still participate in the procurement under the Stimulus Act if: There has been a “substantial transformation” of its products in the United States  into a new or different “manufactured good distinct from the materials from it was transformed.”  NOTE:  “ There is no requirement with regard to the origin of components or subcomponents in manufactured goods or products, as long as the manufacture of the goods occurs in the United States.” There are also  “De minimis” exceptions:Less than  5% of cost of materials for EPA funded projects  = Blanket Waivers  Summary: Each case has to be evaluated individually in terms of the products involved, the identity of the procuring agency,  whether the Buy American Act provisions apply, and whether exceptions or waivers to the Buy American Act provisions exist
Inflatable Patrol Boat from GSA Schedule 27' Extreme Patrol/SAR Aluminum-Hull Rigid Inflatable Boat (A-RIB) with a 42oz polyurethane collar or Foam Hybrid Collar. Set-up for inboard(s) or outboard(s) machinery package. Select center console or full cabin configuration. See option  Manufacturer: NORTHWIND MARINE INC.Contractor:  NORTHWIND MARINE, INC.   [GS-07F-0416N] ( s )  $113,622.00   EA 120 days delivered ARO
German Turbo-Generators for Waste-to-Energy Power Plants
Summary Topics 1-3 Broad Range  of Opportunities under Stimulus Act Special Incentives for Renewable Energy and GreenTech Projects (large and small, R&D and manufacturing) Money not yet  Spent Level Playing Field So you want to Play? Question Remains:  What are the Steps for Successful Participation?
A Break?
Topic # 4 Strategic Use of Acquisitions and Joint Ventures
M&A Considerations  Why Buy ? Why Now?  Defining Your Acquisition Strategy Valuation Issues Due Diligence, Negotiations and Closing the Deal Financing the M&A Deal  Cross-Cultural issues  Post-Acquisition Operations/Risk Management  The Joint Venture Alternative
M&A Considerations  Why Buy? Why Now Stimulus Act spending in 2010-2011: Economic rebound expected in 2010;  Euro strong versus US Dollar; Availability of middle market acquisition opportunities; flexibility of deal terms. Benefits of acquisitions or Joint Ventures. Case Studies and Examples. M&A activity: beginning to rebound from 2009: Favorable Legal/Regulatory considerations: antitrust; unions; immigration policies; attitudes of US administration and Congress.
M&A Considerations  2.   Defining Your Acquisition Strategy Your internal business strategy review process Understanding and applying your business goals Defining acquisition parameters Selecting your M&A advisors and legal team Financing: how best to present the deal to your investors
M&A Consideratons  3.  Acquisition Process and Valuation :  Identifying your target companies Approaching targets Valuation techniques and approaches Tax Issues  Stimulus Act impact on valuations Special considerations for U.S. targets: environmental issues, employment policies, non-competes and confidentiality agreements, goodwill/intangible assets. Is seller publicly traded corporation?
M&A Considerations  4.  Due Diligence, Negotiations and Closing the Deal  Negotiation tactics “à l’Americaine” Due diligence checklists Legal and fiscal issues: Stock versus Asset purchase; LLC or C corporation; tax considerations under U.S. and French law,  Stimulus Act tax incentives financing issues at closing Special issues: buying divisions/subsidiaries of U.S. publicly held companies How to protect against post-transaction risks
M&A Considerations  5.  Financing the M&A Transaction: Private equity, mezzanine, and venture capital;  seller and bank financing.  International Tax Issues.  Sources of capital overseas and in the United States.
M&A Considerations  6.  Bridging the Gap between Foreign and U.S. Corporate Cultures Cross-Cultural Issues and Questions : The importance of Communication and Leadership. Who manages and controls? Which culture(s) predominant?   How culture clashes can undo the merger Human resources: why human capital may be your most important asset Case examples
M&A Considerations  Successful Post-Acquisition Operations employment and immigration Intellectual property Marketing to customers Legal and tax considerations: minimizing risks Contracts and licensing  Other operational considerations Supply chain logistics  Status as government contractor or subcontractor
Joint Ventures: Alternate Strategy?  Often an excellent alternative to the M&A deal  Factors for success When and why does it not work?  How to structure: tax, legal issues  Use in Government Contracting? Use in private sector projects Case examples
Topic # 5 How to Best Position Your Foreign company for Government Contracts
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: Standard Competitive Bidding model may not always apply to government contracts or subcontracts  Alternatives:  Sole Sourcing IDIQ GSA Schedule Negotiated Procurements  Teaming Arrangements with a general contractor
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING:  What can  I do? Position your foreign company to avoid Requests for Proposals and competitive  bids, where possible (Federal projects) Use IDIQs Become a “GSA Schedule Contractor” Propose projects;  can sell to Contracting Officer Be Best Positioned and Pre-qualified Be Ready to Negotiate, Responsible (financially & technically)
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: Goal in Speaking to Contract Officer Sole Source Opportunities Most contracts <$750k can be awarded without formal competition Most contracts $750k-$1.5M can be awarded with limited competition Contracts >$1.5M will be awarded after competitive bidding in most cases. Thus, this is an area where Teaming Agreement with U.S. contractor may make sense.
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: Unsolicited Proposal Provides a vehicle to propose solutions to the Government’s requirements Mechanism to obtain work/define needs Mechanism to “shape” procurements Stimulus Act: government is looking for projects to justify spending the money
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: USE of I.D.I.Q. Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity contract (I.D.I.Q.) Multiple Award Contract Dollars are used to fund Task Orders Task Orders may or may not be open to competition  Award of Task Orders may be protested by competitors Williams Mullen services: position your company for IDIQ contracts and protect the procurement from protests
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: GSA Schedule Contracts  Catalogue for the Government to go shopping, like “Amazon.com or ebay.com Eliminates competitive bidding Williams Mullen Services: as part of feasibility audit or evaluation, , determine whether your company can qualify on the GSA schedule and how you can best sell to the government, just like any other commercial customer Advice re Teaming Arrangements;  Example: Inflatable Patrol Boat
Inflatable Boat from GSA Schedule 27' Extreme Patrol/SAR Aluminum-Hull Rigid Inflatable Boat (A-RIB) with a 42oz polyurethane collar or Foam Hybrid Collar. Set-up for inboard(s) or outboard(s) machinery package. Select center console or full cabin configuration. See option ...Manufacturer: NORTHWIND MARINE INC.Contractor:  NORTHWIND MARINE, INC.   [GS-07F-0416N] ( s )  $113,622.00   EA 120 days delivered ARO
After your Government Contract begins, what U.S. government laws and regulations will apply to your foreign business?  Topic 5:  Stimulus Act: Government Contracts (cont’d)
Government Contracts Issues for Foreign Companies  Provide a basic guide in these areas:  Federal Procurement Laws Federal Acquisition Regulations International Contracting Immigration, Labor and Employment Laws New E-Verify requirements to check identity/work authorization of  all new hires and all workers assigned to the contract Operation of U.S. Subsidiary as government contractor or subcontractor
Government contracts:  Areas of concern Government recordkeeping requirements Auditing by the government Ethics and Compliance mandate, 2009 Prevailing wage/CBA requirements Only deal with authorized agents of the U.S. Government  Increased civil and criminal penalties
Government Contracts:  Areas of Concern  (cont’d) Unique contracting issues:  The Disputes Clause Change orders in writing  Spend no more than the money you have been specifically allocated  Termination Clauses Prompt Payment Be careful of any Socio-Economic Program Requirements, affirmative action for minority workers
Federal Procurement Laws final areas of concern Government contracts are highly regulated  Laws applicable to government contracts are heavily enforced against both companies and individuals, alike Violations could result in:  Criminal proceedings resulting in substantial fines, restitution and even prison Civil fraud proceedings Suspension or disbarment Termination for default Contractual remedies
Steps for successful participation  and the  Panel’s “Top 10” Take-Away Points  Topic #6 Stimulus Act and other Opportunities for Business Expansion
Steps for Success: Stimulus Act  Public Sector   Projects  Feasibility Audit to best position your company Identification of  best opportunities under ARRA Teaming Arrangements, JV  or Strategic Acquisitions  to maximize your access to Stimulus Act Projects Legal guidance concerning application of WTO-GPA  Supply Chain planning to avoid Buy American Act issues; or  Representation of  foreign companies in obtaining waivers of Buy American Act Provisions Obtain advice after contract awards on compliance with  government contract laws and regulations Select advisory team to help your company finance, prepare for and close the deal if you are doing M&A, JV.  Consider support services for future business operations: financial; tax and accounting; legal; strategic.
Steps for Success: Stimulus Act  Private Sector   Projects  Feasibility Audit to assess your company’s technologies  and match opportunities under Stimulus Act  Advice on available tax credits, guaranteed loans, grants  and other financial incentives. If project is in the clean energy sector, consider potential impact of Carbon management, financing and “cap and trade”  Decide on use of Teaming Arrangements, JV  or Strategic Acquisitions Obtain advice on application of any Buy American Provisions tied to Stimulus Act incentives Formulate business growth strategy  Select advisory team to help your company finance, prepare for and close the deal if you are doing M&A, JV. Consider support services for future business operations: financial; tax and accounting; legal; strategic.
The Panel’s Top 10 Take-Away Points  Stimulus Act Level Playing Field: rules of the game  Teaming Arrangements and Teaming  Partners  Joint Ventures,  M&A Private Sector Financial Incentives Financing Deals or internal business growth Tax considerations Government Contracts The “Greening” of America?
Support Services to Ensure Soft Landing for Foreign Companies  Company formation: International Tax Help with Choices: LLC or C Corporation Cross-Border Transactions:  Immigration: using  L-1  Corporate Transfers and  E-2 Treaty Investor/Trade Visas  to your advantage Customs  Issues  Supply Chain Legal Logistics  Intellectual Property Other International Tax Advice
Support Services Compliance and Risk Management Employment policies,  Products Liability—reducing risks  Leverage Legal Advantages of  Virginia Location Government Contracts  Distribution and Licensing Agreements How to enhance market penetration Ensure long term growth Advice on Strategic M&A and Joint Ventures
Thank You Questions?  Eliot Norman,  Williams Mullen John Piret, Newbury Piret & Company Williams Mullen, 1666 K Street, N.W., Suite 1200 Washington, DC  20006 Telephone 202.833.9200 or Direct 804.783.6482  [email_address] www.williamsmullen.com

Growth Opportunities For International Companies In 2010

  • 1.
    Growth Opportunities forInternational Companies in 2010 Eliot Norman International Practice Group [email_address] Williams Mullen, Washington, DC 202.833.9200 or Direct 804.783.6482 Stimulus Act Funding of Private and Public Sector Projects Strategic Use of M&A and Joint Ventures Government Contracts
  • 2.
  • 3.
  • 4.
  • 5.
    American Recovery andReinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) Signed into law by President Obama on February 17, 2009 Provides a total of $787 billion in funds Unprecedented level of funding designed to help create and save jobs, jumpstart the economy, and build the foundation for long-term economic growth
  • 6.
  • 7.
    Practical Reaction ofclients? Varied depending upon industry sector
  • 8.
    Our Agenda 1. Whe re is the Money being spent? Where are the new opportunities? 2. How Much has Been Spent So far? 3. Can Foreign Companies participate in Stimulus Act Projects? 4. Steps for Success: legal considerations and practical strategies
  • 9.
    More Detailed Analysisof Those 4 Questions Where are the Stimulus Act Opportunities for Public Sector Projects? Stimulus Act incentives: Direct Funding, Tax Credits/Loan Guarantees and Grants “ Level Playing Field” For Foreign Companies? Availability of Financing/Commercial Banking Services for Business Expansion Strategic Use of Acquisitions & Joint Ventures: Smart Approach in 2010? Government Contracts Strategies Top 10 “Take-Away” Points: Services Required and Steps for Success
  • 10.
    Topics #1 and#2: U.S. Stimulus Act Follow the Money: Where is it being spent? What are the new opportunities? How Much has Been Spent So far? How Much remains to be allocated?
  • 11.
    Follow the Money:U.S. Stimulus Act Allocations? “Shovel-ready jobs?” Roads and Bridges?
  • 12.
    Follow the Money:U.S. Stimulus Act Allocations? “Shovel-ready jobs?” Roads and Bridges?
  • 13.
    ARRA: Spending ProvisionsFunds designated to the following sectors: Energy and Environment: $98 billion Transportation: Rail, roads and bridges: $49 Billion . Only 50% of Energy/Environment . Defense and Security: $16.448 billion Agriculture and Rural Development: $15.986 billion Biomedical research $10 billion
  • 14.
    3 rd Generation Photovoltaic Cells
  • 15.
    How Much HasBeen Spent? Small percentage spent to date at federal, state or local levels Examples: Dept. of Energy: 5.1% of $35.1 billion; Commerce:17.7% of $2.9 billion; Transportation Dept.: 17.7% of $44.8 billion; EPA (Environmental) 10.8% of $6.8 billion. Much Federal Spending to date has been in grants to States and Cities who have yet to fund projects. Over $206.5 Billion has yet to be allocated for future spending. This creates &quot;sales opportunity.“ Governments are inviting proposals for projects. Conclusion: it is not too late, it's still early in the game, even 11 months after passage of the legislation.
  • 16.
    How Much HasBeen Spent? Additional Considerations New and expanded federal tax incentives and revolving loan programs will continue to drive sustainability and related efficiency projects. January 13, 2010 CEA Report confirms this analysis Green Building initiatives: not off the ground (WSJ Article)
  • 17.
    The Match between Converteam and Williams Mullen Converteam: Energy & Infrastructure Williams Mullen: Energy Engineering Legal Practice Focus of WM’s Project Development Work: Assistance with Federal Grants/Loans/Procurements As project counsel, we have assisted clients with structuring and negotiating more than 100 large energy (conventional and new energy), infrastructure and industrial projects in the following representative roles: Contract Counsel: 89 Projects Energy Counsel: 64 Projects Environmental Counsel: 36 Projects Finance Counsel: 40 Projects Ownership Counsel: 51 Projects Project Coordinator: 18 Projects Project Planning: 66 Projects Real Estate/Land Use Counsel: 28 Projects Tax Counsel: 53 Projects
  • 18.
    Why Partner withWilliams Mullen? Converteam Energy & Infrastructure R&D Recovery Act $ Public & Private Sector Projects Teaming Arrangements Strategic M&A/Joint Ventures Williams Mullen Energy & Infrastructure with Focus on Energy Engineering Legal Issues Project Development Experience Contract Counsel: Full range of agreements related to the procurement, development, construction, joint venture, and operation and maintenance of energy and infrastructure facilities.
  • 19.
    examples of representativeprojects from Slides in october 2009
  • 20.
    Public and PrivateSector Opportunities Public Projects Federal State local Private Projects PP3 (Public-Private Partnerships)
  • 21.
    Where is theMoney Going? What are the Opportunities For International Companies? Going to Many Sectors where Foreign companies are already market or technology leaders Urban Transit and Rail Transportation Water quality and Wastewater Treatment Plants Environmental, Natural Resources, Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Smart Grid Medical Research, Biomedical Research, Medical Technologies particularly Health Care IT ($19 Billion) Building out the Broadband Infrastructure ($5 Billion) Green Investments and Green Buildings ($46 Billion) List is enormous and diverse, affecting nearly all sectors—from airport body scanners to vaccines
  • 22.
    Update on theAmerican Recovery and Reinvestment Act 2009 Business Opportunities by Industry Sector (A-Z) Thomas O. Mason August 20, 2009
  • 23.
    ARRA: Energy& Environmental $5 billion for the Weatherization Assistance Program $3.1 billion for the State Energy Program $2.73 billion for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants $2.0 billion for Advanced Battery Manufacturing Grants $800 million for the Biomass Program $454 million for Retrofit ramp-ups in energy efficiency $400 million for the Geothermal Technologies Program $400 million for Transportation Electrification $346 million for Energy efficient building technologies $256 million for the Industrial Technologies Program $93 million for Wind energy projects $50 million for Information and Communications technology $41.9 million for Fuel Cell Markets
  • 24.
    GREEN BUILDING Over$46.05 billion in funding for energy-efficiency retrofits and renewable energy projects $100 million for US Navy and Marine Corps facilities for energy conservation and alternative energy projects Expansion of homeowner tax credit program: Energy-efficiency improvement tax credit increase from 10% to 30% of the costs of the improvements up to $1500 per year in 2009 and 2010 $2.3 billion in New Clean Energy Manufacturing Tax Credits
  • 25.
    ARRA: HealthCare $19 billion for Medicare and Medicaid to ensure widespread adoption and use of interoperable health information technology (IT) $24.7 billion to subsidize COBRA health insurance premiums (at 65% level for 9 months) for workers who have lost their jobs $10 billion to the National Institute of Health to conduct biomedical research $1.1 billion for comparative effectiveness research to evaluate the relative effectiveness of different health care services and treatment options
  • 26.
    ARRA: HealthCare (cont’d) $2 billion for Health Information Technology (HIT) grants, training, infrastructure, dissemination of best practices, telemedicine, and clinical education $50 million for pandemic flu/BARDA $1 billion for prevention and wellness programs to fight preventable diseases and conditions
  • 27.
  • 28.
    ARRA: Technologyand Communications $2.5 billion for the Department of Agriculture for distance learning, telemedicine, and programs that increase broadband access and usage $4.7 billion for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Broadband Technology Opportunities Program for competitive grants to accelerate broadband deployment in unserved and underserved areas, with at least $200 million for competitive grants for expanding public computer center capacity and at least $250 million for competitive grants for innovative programs for sustainable broadband adoption
  • 29.
    Public Sector: Examplesof Stimulus Act Projects New Green Building Coast Guard HQ, Washington D.C. $493 million Add Solar Roof on Federal Courthouse, Richmond, VA $1-5 million IT consulting, Social Security Administration $95 million Disposal of Nuclear Waste, Los Alamos National Laboratory, $10 million Architectural/Engineering Services, Waste Water Treatment Facilities $5 milion Smart Grid Power Distribution System, Philadelphia Steam Lines, Electrical Systems, $387 million, Dept. of Energy Geospatial Products and Services, Dept. of Interior, Denver, Colorado, $250 million Biomedical Research $5 billion in grants announced 09/30/09,
  • 30.
    Private Sector: Examplesof Stimulus Act Projects 1. Alstom (American Electric Power Co.), Clean coal technologies in West Virginia, $334 million 2. Iberdrola, Five wind farms (Texas, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Minnesota), $294 million 3. Saft, Factory to manufacture lithium ion cells and batteries, Jacksonville, FL, $95.5 million 4. Johnson Controls – Saft, Batteries for hybrid vehicles, Holland MI and Lebanon, OR, $299.2 million 5. ArcelorMittal, Blast furnace gas flare capture, East Chicago, IN, $31.6 million
  • 31.
    Clean Energy: Cameron Prell Sean King
  • 32.
    The New (Green)Deal: Clean Energy and the Stimulus Bill “ The country that harnesses the power of clean, renewable energy will lead the 21 st century.” U.S. President Barack Obama, February 24, 2009
  • 33.
    ARRA Clean EnergyStrategy Spur innovative technology Reduce greenhouse gases Re-establish U.S. manufacturing capability focused on energy Reconstitute aging power and water infrastructure International companies should be able to lead the way because of technological advances overseas
  • 34.
  • 35.
  • 36.
    ARRA Clean Energy:Level of Funding Direct appropriations for energy-related projects and technologies equal to approximately ($72 billion) Tax credits and other financial incentives for projects and energy equipment ($22 billion +) The U.S. Treasury direct grant program equal to potentially 30% of total qualifying energy property investment Expansion and “rapid deployment” of DOE loan guarantee program ($6 billion appropriation; $60 billion in loans) Expansion and establishment of new bond mechanisms ($4 billion for energy projects) Massive funding for state and local energy programs
  • 37.
    ARRA Energy-Related Focus Energy efficiency Green buildings Renewable energy projects “ Smart Grid” technology & infrastructure, including $11 billion for electrical grid projects Clean coal deployment ($3.4 billion for Fossil Energy R&D) Advanced biofuels and green vehicles Cleantech
  • 38.
    Examples of Clean Energy Financial Incentives Direct Investment Investment Tax Credit (“ITC”) Production Tax Credit (“PTC”) Federal Block Grants Advanced Energy Project Credits Clean Renewable Energy Bonds Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds Potential Carbon “Cap and Trade”, Carbon Management benefits
  • 39.
    Funding State andLocal Programs Not all the money is at the Federal Level Weatherization Financial Assistance Program ($5 billion) Green Building ($4.5 billion) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program ($3.2 billion) State Energy Funding Program (discretionary funding for “shovel ready” energy and water projects)
  • 40.
    Advanced Energy ProjectCredits ARRA expands 30% Investment Tax Credit for any Qualifying Advanced Energy Project that re-establishes, expands or constructs a manufacturing facility to produce the following equipment: Renewable energy systems (including solar, wind and geothermal) Fuel Cells Microturbines Electric/hybrid Cars, Batteries & Equipment Renewable Grids/Smart Grids Carbon Capture & Sequestration Renewable Fuels Refining or Blending Energy Conservation Technologies
  • 41.
    Stimulus Act CaseStudy – Wind Energy Iberdrola Renovables (Spain) World’s largest wind energy firm 2 nd largest wind energy producer in U.S. Headquartered in Valencia, Spain Has formed U.S. subsidiary to import components and exploit its technology Expected to receive $400 to $500 million in ARRA (Stimulus Act) grants for U.S. projects before the end of 2009 Has remained profitable despite downturn and falling fossil fuel prices
  • 42.
    2008 Foreign Ownersof U.S. Wind Energy Farms Stimulus Act has Accelerated Trend to Foreign Ownership NextEra Energy Resources 6290.1 Iberdrola Renewables 2063.4 (Spain) MidAmerican Energy 1939.5 Horizon-EDP Renewables 1872.7 (Portugal) Invenergy 1276.5 Babcock & Brown 1118.8 Edison Mission Group 959.9 AES 956.7 E.On Climate and Renewables 726.9 (Germany) John Deere Wind 527.3 enXco 527.0 (affiliate of EDF Energies Nouvelles, a French Company) Shell Wind Energy 449.0 Puget Sound Energy 385.2 Terra-Gen Power 368.5 Duke Energy 321.5 AEP 310.5 Eurus 296.6 (Japan) Noble Environmental Power 282.0 Orion Energy Group 280.5 Enel North America 249.3 (Italy) Others 4167.1
  • 43.
    Stimulus Act TaxIncentives Production Tax Credit Investment Tax Credit Note re: Rangel technical corrections re: ability to refund credits Grant in lieu of ITC
  • 44.
    Other Inbound InvestmentConsiderations: Tax and Treaty Eligibility . Corporate vs. LLC form: Corporations do not have &quot;flow through&quot; tax treatment and hence are required to file tax returns. Limited liability companies, on the other hand, have &quot;flow-through&quot; tax treatment and are not required to file income tax returns; rather their parent companies must file income tax returns in the United States. Since most foreign companies do not want to file tax returns in the United States, the preferred form of entity for U.S. operations of foreign companies most often is the corporation.
  • 45.
    Taxes Worldwide IncomeTaxation (subject to foreign tax credit regime) Income Tax . The revenue generated by the U.S. subsidiary or U.S. operations of a foreign business will be subject to taxation in the U.S. This tax is assessed at the federal and state levels. Federal Tax . Federal income tax rates are set depending upon many factors. Federal corporate tax rates range between 15% and 39%; the average tax rate is typically 35%. State Tax . State income tax rates are set forth on a state by state basis. The current rate for corporate income tax in North Carolina is 6.9%. This is lower than many other states, including California (8.84%) and New York (7.5%-9%). Accounting considerations (FIN 48; permanent establishment, etc.)
  • 46.
    International Tax PlanningPermanent Establishment: initial assessment of taxable presence; Transfer pricing: Where to direct profit: Profit Drivers: Capital; Function; Know how (and other intangibles); Risk
  • 47.
    International Tax PlanningFinancing: debt-to-equity considerations (including section 163(j) restrictions); Treasury Management – repatriation planning Where a treaty is absent LOB provisions and treaty “shopping” Holding company planning techniques
  • 48.
    Topic # 3“ Level Playing Field for Foreign Companies”?
  • 49.
  • 50.
    Can Foreign CompaniesParticipate in ARRA Projects? Common Perception: Given the purpose of ARRA, and its Buy American Provisions, Stimulus Projects must be reserved for U.S. companies and U.S. manufactured products ARRA states: Any ”project for …public building or public work” can use Stimulus funds only if all the iron, steel and manufactured goods are produced in the United States.” Buy American? But ARRA also says that : “This section shall be applied in a manner consistent with U.S. obligations under international agreements:” WTO obligations apply. Reality: Significant exceptions to Buy American Provisions exist and can benefit Foreign companies: Buy American Act Provisions not a major issue Proof: Look no further than Iberdrola Renovables or SAFT/Johnson Controls
  • 51.
  • 52.
    Applicationof “Buy American” provisions would contradict U.S. obligations under international agreements; The United States and the company’s foreign country are signatories to the WTO-GPA. The WTO-GPA prohibits Application of the BUY AMERICAN ACT to Stimulus Act procurements by Federal Agencies and 37 State or other government authorities “ Buy American” provisions affecting Stimulus Act public construction projects do not prevent foreign company from being contractor or supplier when:
  • 53.
    Who Has Signedthe WTO-GPA? Parties and Date of entry into Force/Accession: Canada 1 January 1996 European Communities with regard to its 27 member States:  Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom1 January 1996Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovak Republic and Slovenia 1 May 2004 Bulgaria and Romania 1 January 2007 Hong Kong , China 19 June 1997 Iceland 28 April 2001 Israel 1 January 1996 Japan 1 January 1996 Korea 1 January 1997 Liechtenstein 18 September 1997 the Netherlands with respect to Aruba 25 October 1996 Norway 1 January 1996 Singapore 20 October 1997 Switzerland 1 January 1996 Chinese Taipei 15 July 2009 United States 1 January 1996  
  • 54.
    Result: AForeign WTO-GPA company is eligible to bid , because Annex 1 to GPA lists U.S. Department of Transportation (but not Federal Aviation Administration) among covered central government entities. Example 1: U.S. Department of Transportation (but not Federal Aviation Administration) solicits bids for Stimulus Act project.
  • 55.
    Result: Aforeign WTO-GPA company is eligible to bid , because Annex 2 to GPA lists Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (but not South Carolina Department of Transportation) among covered sub-central government entities. Example 2: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (but not South Carolina Department of Transportation) solicits bids for project.
  • 56.
    WTO GPA (STATES(OMC-AMP ETATS)
  • 57.
    Result: Aforeign WTO-GPA company is eligible to bid , because Annex 3 to GPA lists Port of Baltimore (but not City of Charleston) among other covered entities. Example 3: Port of Baltimore (but not City of Charleston) solicits bids for project.
  • 58.
    Application would increaseproject’s overall cost by more than 25%. Application would contradict “the public interest.”; or U.S. companies do not produce goods “in sufficient and reasonably available quantities” and of “satisfactory quality”; or Company Can Obtain WAIVERS of Buy American Provisions in Stimulus Act Additional Loopholes : Buy American” provisions affecting stimulus-package public construction projects do not prevent a foreign company from being contractor when:
  • 59.
    Between 7 April2008 and 17 September 2009, 18 Federal Register notices from U.S. government entities including Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Commerce and Department of Agriculture have granted: -- 13 “unavailability” waivers; and -- 5 “public interest” waivers. Remember: “ International agreements” do not provide only exception to “Buy American” requirements.
  • 60.
    Stimulus Act: LetsAssume That “Buy American” Provisions Apply A Foreign company can still participate in the procurement under the Stimulus Act if: There has been a “substantial transformation” of its products in the United States into a new or different “manufactured good distinct from the materials from it was transformed.” NOTE: “ There is no requirement with regard to the origin of components or subcomponents in manufactured goods or products, as long as the manufacture of the goods occurs in the United States.” There are also “De minimis” exceptions:Less than 5% of cost of materials for EPA funded projects = Blanket Waivers Summary: Each case has to be evaluated individually in terms of the products involved, the identity of the procuring agency, whether the Buy American Act provisions apply, and whether exceptions or waivers to the Buy American Act provisions exist
  • 61.
    Inflatable Patrol Boatfrom GSA Schedule 27' Extreme Patrol/SAR Aluminum-Hull Rigid Inflatable Boat (A-RIB) with a 42oz polyurethane collar or Foam Hybrid Collar. Set-up for inboard(s) or outboard(s) machinery package. Select center console or full cabin configuration. See option Manufacturer: NORTHWIND MARINE INC.Contractor:  NORTHWIND MARINE, INC.   [GS-07F-0416N] ( s ) $113,622.00 EA 120 days delivered ARO
  • 62.
    German Turbo-Generators forWaste-to-Energy Power Plants
  • 63.
    Summary Topics 1-3Broad Range of Opportunities under Stimulus Act Special Incentives for Renewable Energy and GreenTech Projects (large and small, R&D and manufacturing) Money not yet Spent Level Playing Field So you want to Play? Question Remains: What are the Steps for Successful Participation?
  • 64.
  • 65.
    Topic # 4Strategic Use of Acquisitions and Joint Ventures
  • 66.
    M&A Considerations Why Buy ? Why Now? Defining Your Acquisition Strategy Valuation Issues Due Diligence, Negotiations and Closing the Deal Financing the M&A Deal Cross-Cultural issues Post-Acquisition Operations/Risk Management The Joint Venture Alternative
  • 67.
    M&A Considerations Why Buy? Why Now Stimulus Act spending in 2010-2011: Economic rebound expected in 2010; Euro strong versus US Dollar; Availability of middle market acquisition opportunities; flexibility of deal terms. Benefits of acquisitions or Joint Ventures. Case Studies and Examples. M&A activity: beginning to rebound from 2009: Favorable Legal/Regulatory considerations: antitrust; unions; immigration policies; attitudes of US administration and Congress.
  • 68.
    M&A Considerations 2. Defining Your Acquisition Strategy Your internal business strategy review process Understanding and applying your business goals Defining acquisition parameters Selecting your M&A advisors and legal team Financing: how best to present the deal to your investors
  • 69.
    M&A Consideratons 3. Acquisition Process and Valuation : Identifying your target companies Approaching targets Valuation techniques and approaches Tax Issues Stimulus Act impact on valuations Special considerations for U.S. targets: environmental issues, employment policies, non-competes and confidentiality agreements, goodwill/intangible assets. Is seller publicly traded corporation?
  • 70.
    M&A Considerations 4. Due Diligence, Negotiations and Closing the Deal Negotiation tactics “à l’Americaine” Due diligence checklists Legal and fiscal issues: Stock versus Asset purchase; LLC or C corporation; tax considerations under U.S. and French law, Stimulus Act tax incentives financing issues at closing Special issues: buying divisions/subsidiaries of U.S. publicly held companies How to protect against post-transaction risks
  • 71.
    M&A Considerations 5. Financing the M&A Transaction: Private equity, mezzanine, and venture capital; seller and bank financing. International Tax Issues. Sources of capital overseas and in the United States.
  • 72.
    M&A Considerations 6. Bridging the Gap between Foreign and U.S. Corporate Cultures Cross-Cultural Issues and Questions : The importance of Communication and Leadership. Who manages and controls? Which culture(s) predominant? How culture clashes can undo the merger Human resources: why human capital may be your most important asset Case examples
  • 73.
    M&A Considerations Successful Post-Acquisition Operations employment and immigration Intellectual property Marketing to customers Legal and tax considerations: minimizing risks Contracts and licensing Other operational considerations Supply chain logistics Status as government contractor or subcontractor
  • 74.
    Joint Ventures: AlternateStrategy? Often an excellent alternative to the M&A deal Factors for success When and why does it not work? How to structure: tax, legal issues Use in Government Contracting? Use in private sector projects Case examples
  • 75.
    Topic # 5How to Best Position Your Foreign company for Government Contracts
  • 76.
    GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: StandardCompetitive Bidding model may not always apply to government contracts or subcontracts Alternatives: Sole Sourcing IDIQ GSA Schedule Negotiated Procurements Teaming Arrangements with a general contractor
  • 77.
    GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: What can I do? Position your foreign company to avoid Requests for Proposals and competitive bids, where possible (Federal projects) Use IDIQs Become a “GSA Schedule Contractor” Propose projects; can sell to Contracting Officer Be Best Positioned and Pre-qualified Be Ready to Negotiate, Responsible (financially & technically)
  • 78.
    GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: Goalin Speaking to Contract Officer Sole Source Opportunities Most contracts <$750k can be awarded without formal competition Most contracts $750k-$1.5M can be awarded with limited competition Contracts >$1.5M will be awarded after competitive bidding in most cases. Thus, this is an area where Teaming Agreement with U.S. contractor may make sense.
  • 79.
    GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: UnsolicitedProposal Provides a vehicle to propose solutions to the Government’s requirements Mechanism to obtain work/define needs Mechanism to “shape” procurements Stimulus Act: government is looking for projects to justify spending the money
  • 80.
    GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: USEof I.D.I.Q. Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity contract (I.D.I.Q.) Multiple Award Contract Dollars are used to fund Task Orders Task Orders may or may not be open to competition Award of Task Orders may be protested by competitors Williams Mullen services: position your company for IDIQ contracts and protect the procurement from protests
  • 81.
    GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING: GSASchedule Contracts Catalogue for the Government to go shopping, like “Amazon.com or ebay.com Eliminates competitive bidding Williams Mullen Services: as part of feasibility audit or evaluation, , determine whether your company can qualify on the GSA schedule and how you can best sell to the government, just like any other commercial customer Advice re Teaming Arrangements; Example: Inflatable Patrol Boat
  • 82.
    Inflatable Boat fromGSA Schedule 27' Extreme Patrol/SAR Aluminum-Hull Rigid Inflatable Boat (A-RIB) with a 42oz polyurethane collar or Foam Hybrid Collar. Set-up for inboard(s) or outboard(s) machinery package. Select center console or full cabin configuration. See option ...Manufacturer: NORTHWIND MARINE INC.Contractor:  NORTHWIND MARINE, INC.   [GS-07F-0416N] ( s ) $113,622.00 EA 120 days delivered ARO
  • 83.
    After your GovernmentContract begins, what U.S. government laws and regulations will apply to your foreign business? Topic 5: Stimulus Act: Government Contracts (cont’d)
  • 84.
    Government Contracts Issuesfor Foreign Companies Provide a basic guide in these areas: Federal Procurement Laws Federal Acquisition Regulations International Contracting Immigration, Labor and Employment Laws New E-Verify requirements to check identity/work authorization of all new hires and all workers assigned to the contract Operation of U.S. Subsidiary as government contractor or subcontractor
  • 85.
    Government contracts: Areas of concern Government recordkeeping requirements Auditing by the government Ethics and Compliance mandate, 2009 Prevailing wage/CBA requirements Only deal with authorized agents of the U.S. Government Increased civil and criminal penalties
  • 86.
    Government Contracts: Areas of Concern (cont’d) Unique contracting issues: The Disputes Clause Change orders in writing Spend no more than the money you have been specifically allocated Termination Clauses Prompt Payment Be careful of any Socio-Economic Program Requirements, affirmative action for minority workers
  • 87.
    Federal Procurement Lawsfinal areas of concern Government contracts are highly regulated Laws applicable to government contracts are heavily enforced against both companies and individuals, alike Violations could result in: Criminal proceedings resulting in substantial fines, restitution and even prison Civil fraud proceedings Suspension or disbarment Termination for default Contractual remedies
  • 88.
    Steps for successfulparticipation and the Panel’s “Top 10” Take-Away Points Topic #6 Stimulus Act and other Opportunities for Business Expansion
  • 89.
    Steps for Success:Stimulus Act Public Sector Projects Feasibility Audit to best position your company Identification of best opportunities under ARRA Teaming Arrangements, JV or Strategic Acquisitions to maximize your access to Stimulus Act Projects Legal guidance concerning application of WTO-GPA Supply Chain planning to avoid Buy American Act issues; or Representation of foreign companies in obtaining waivers of Buy American Act Provisions Obtain advice after contract awards on compliance with government contract laws and regulations Select advisory team to help your company finance, prepare for and close the deal if you are doing M&A, JV. Consider support services for future business operations: financial; tax and accounting; legal; strategic.
  • 90.
    Steps for Success:Stimulus Act Private Sector Projects Feasibility Audit to assess your company’s technologies and match opportunities under Stimulus Act Advice on available tax credits, guaranteed loans, grants and other financial incentives. If project is in the clean energy sector, consider potential impact of Carbon management, financing and “cap and trade” Decide on use of Teaming Arrangements, JV or Strategic Acquisitions Obtain advice on application of any Buy American Provisions tied to Stimulus Act incentives Formulate business growth strategy Select advisory team to help your company finance, prepare for and close the deal if you are doing M&A, JV. Consider support services for future business operations: financial; tax and accounting; legal; strategic.
  • 91.
    The Panel’s Top10 Take-Away Points Stimulus Act Level Playing Field: rules of the game Teaming Arrangements and Teaming Partners Joint Ventures, M&A Private Sector Financial Incentives Financing Deals or internal business growth Tax considerations Government Contracts The “Greening” of America?
  • 92.
    Support Services toEnsure Soft Landing for Foreign Companies Company formation: International Tax Help with Choices: LLC or C Corporation Cross-Border Transactions: Immigration: using L-1 Corporate Transfers and E-2 Treaty Investor/Trade Visas to your advantage Customs Issues Supply Chain Legal Logistics Intellectual Property Other International Tax Advice
  • 93.
    Support Services Complianceand Risk Management Employment policies, Products Liability—reducing risks Leverage Legal Advantages of Virginia Location Government Contracts Distribution and Licensing Agreements How to enhance market penetration Ensure long term growth Advice on Strategic M&A and Joint Ventures
  • 94.
    Thank You Questions? Eliot Norman, Williams Mullen John Piret, Newbury Piret & Company Williams Mullen, 1666 K Street, N.W., Suite 1200 Washington, DC 20006 Telephone 202.833.9200 or Direct 804.783.6482 [email_address] www.williamsmullen.com

Editor's Notes

  • #7 optimism practique national les clients commencing a deviner curieux vers juin sont serious cojmment y partiiper ou sont les projets? on est revenue vite a ses mots relancer l’econimie revitalisaiton re investment quelque chose ici autrement qque les japonais Marshall Plan mais en quelle direction
  • #8 notre pratique nationale: donner une description. non wall street. L’amerique moyenne. entreprises, soit industriel, erivices, super active, notre department des contrats gouvernmentaux. deivent tres active des Kansas City caolition raconte l’histoire: les entreprises etrangeres. d’autres fort interesses par les oportunities infrastructure environmentale usines de traitement des eaus usee secteur de defense comment vendre au gouvernment: depasse construction, ajouter le gouvernemnt commen un autre acheteur. construction de batiments masons : bricks et pierres : le secteur commercial s’est arrete mme Wal-mart, s’est arrete le marche etait en avance du gouvernement chaque nouveau programme gouvernmental l’argent pour les vielles voitures le mois d’aout!!
  • #93 notre pratique nationale: donner une description. non wall street. L’amerique moyenne. entreprises, soit industriel, erivices, super active, notre department des contrats gouvernmentaux. deivent tres active des Kansas City caolition raconte l’histoire: les entreprises etrangeres. d’autres fort interesses par les oportunities infrastructure environmentale usines de traitement des eaus usee secteur de defense comment vendre au gouvernment: depasse construction, ajouter le gouvernemnt commen un autre acheteur. construction de batiments masons : bricks et pierres : le secteur commercial s’est arrete mme Wal-mart, s’est arrete le marche etait en avance du gouvernement chaque nouveau programme gouvernmental l’argent pour les vielles voitures le mois d’aout!!
  • #94 notre pratique nationale: donner une description. non wall street. L’amerique moyenne. entreprises, soit industriel, erivices, super active, notre department des contrats gouvernmentaux. deivent tres active des Kansas City caolition raconte l’histoire: les entreprises etrangeres. d’autres fort interesses par les oportunities infrastructure environmentale usines de traitement des eaus usee secteur de defense comment vendre au gouvernment: depasse construction, ajouter le gouvernemnt commen un autre acheteur. construction de batiments masons : bricks et pierres : le secteur commercial s’est arrete mme Wal-mart, s’est arrete le marche etait en avance du gouvernement chaque nouveau programme gouvernmental l’argent pour les vielles voitures le mois d’aout!!