Intel is branching out into the governmental vertical with launch of the Intel Federal LLC, designed to help Intel work directly with the government and fuel the supercomputing needs of the nation. But is there room to play for the channel? Read on for the details …

Open to all branches of the government, Intel Federal will ensure supercomputing performance is unmatched and constantly evolving. Having Intel Federal will ensure a tighter relationship between Intel and the government sector, ensuring project collaboration is uniquely developed to meet governmental needs. Intel Federal offices will open in Oregon, California and Washington, D.C., and the company plans to eventually branch out.

Intel PR Rep Chuck Mulloy said thus far there are no channel implementation of Intel Federal, because “it’s [only] days old.” Intel’s motivation behind the LLC was to purposely create a channel of direct business with the federal government. “It’s initially set up as a business that’s in compliance with regulations in … dealing with the federal government. We could be using channel partners and we might be using OEMs, but right now we’re just getting process and procedures in place,” and Intel is still staffing the division, he said.

Bigger picture? If Intel thinks the government will need computing resources from the private sector, VARs should take a look at doing the same. The government vertical is a popular one, with many distribution companies offering unique programs to help VARs meet compliance and regulatory needs. Tech Data’s TechEDG and Avnet’s GovPath are available, and that’s just naming a few.