FTBA FDOT District 1 Fall Contractor Meeting
2024-10-01 13:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | FDOT District 1 Headquarters (Conference Center), 801-A N. Broadway Avenue, Bartow, FL, 33830, United States

FTBA FDOT District 5 Fall Contractor Meeting
2024-10-02 09:00 - 12:00 | Wayne G. Sanborn Activity Center, 815 S Alabama Ave, DeLand, FL, 32724, United States

Verdex Construction Subcontractor Outreach and Job Fair
2024-10-02 16:30 - 18:30 | The Park West Palm, 7301 Georgia Avenue, West Palm Beach, Florida, 33405
For….West Palm Beach Based S/M/WBE Subcontractors
Certified S/M/WBE Subcontractors:

Verdex is looking to hire S/M/WBE Subcontractors for all trades
Work on a notable project in your “backyard”
To be eligible you MUST show a current West Palm Beach business license and S/M/WBE Subcontractors certificate

Project Location: 8111 S. Dixie – Mixed Use Construction Project
For more information call: Melanie Perazzo @ 561-970-5014

MBE Input Committee Meeting
2024-10-03 08:00 - 09:00 | FL
The MBE Input Committee represents the interests of Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council’s (FSMSDC) MBEs and works with the Council’s board, staff and president. The committee supports and develops strategies and initiatives that serves FSMSDC’s mission of “advancing business opportunities for certified MBEs and connecting them with corporate members,” and doing so in ways that create value and deliver economic and social impact for all stakeholders.
This meeting is OPEN TO ALL FSMSDC Certified MBEs

Register Now >

Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) MCO Means Business
2024-10-04 08:00 - 14:00 | Hilton Orlando, 6001 Destination Parkway, Orlando, FL, 32819
Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s (GOAA) Small Business Development Department is excited to host “MCO Means Business,” a premier networking event. This event provides small business attendees with an opportunity to meet GOAA decision makers, as well as prime contractors, consultants, vendors, and concessionaires working at the Airport. Join us to explore ideas and strategies on how small businesses can Celebrate, Collaborate and Soar!

Hosted by the Small Business Development Department
When: Friday, October 4th (8:00 a.m – 2:00 p.m.)
Where: Hilton Orlando, 6001 Destination Parkway, Orlando 32819 (Off of International Drive)
MCO Means Business” connects the small business community with one of the region’s largest economic engines. This one-day event has grown to become the leading event for small businesses seeking to learn about airport opportunities. In addition to aviation industry representatives, the program will include city and county government agencies, and community organizations, offering resources to small businesses. We encourage the participation of Small, Minority, Women and Local and Veteran-Owned businesses that are part of the Authority’s longstanding relationship with the Central Florida community. This is the annual event all small businesses must attend!

What is the dress code?

Business casual attire. Comfortable shoes encouraged.

Will breakfast be provided?

Yes

Will lunch be provided?

Yes

University of Florida - Doing Business with UF! | Division of Student Life
2024-10-08 | FL
Tuesday, September 10th
Doing Business with UF! is a hybrid workshop series intended to offer suppliers insight and knowledge on how to do business with the institution. Every month, UF departments will have the opportunity to discuss key information about their department to help suppliers learn how to do business with them.
Register Here – https://sbsd.admin.ufl.edu/initiatives/doing-business-with-uf/workshop-registration/
REMAINING 2024 SCHEDULE
Tuesday, October 8th – UF Bookstores

University of Florida - Doing Business with UF! | UF Bookstores
2024-10-08 | FL
Tuesday, October 8th
Doing Business with UF! is a hybrid workshop series intended to offer suppliers insight and knowledge on how to do business with the institution. Every month, UF departments will have the opportunity to discuss key information about their department to help suppliers learn how to do business with them.
Register Here – https://sbsd.admin.ufl.edu/initiatives/doing-business-with-uf/workshop-registration/

Jackson Health System - Meet Our Engineering Team
2024-10-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Are you a small or diverse vendor that wants to do business with Jackson Health System?

Details about upcoming repair and renovations projects
Introduce your products/ services to our team
Learn tips on winning and keeping the work
Find out what buyers are looking for

Representatives from Jackson Health System will be available to answer questions live.

Broward County FY25 Capital Projects & Contracting Opportunities
2024-10-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Broward County Government Center – Comission Chamber 422, 115 S. Andrews Avenue Room 422, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33301
A Broward County MUST ATTEND workshop for current and future primes, certified firms and vendors

This is the event for anyone interested in working with Broward County government. The Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development (OESBD) – Community Relations and Outreach (CRO) section – hosts this annual event in collaboration with various Broward County government agencies.
Come and get informed about upcoming projects and network with key representatives from County agencies and colleagues within the South Florida business community.
INVITED agencies include:

Aviation Department
Parks and Recreation
Port Everglades
Public Works
Purchasing Division
Transportation
MAP Broward
and more

Pre-registration is strongly recommended. Event is subject to change.

2024 NMSDC Annual Conference & Exchange and MBDA National MED Week
2024-10-20 - 2024-10-23 | Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA, 30313, United States
Join the Conversation. Define Tomorrow’s Norms. Secure Equity Today.

As we transition from the resounding success of the 2023 NMSDC Annual Conference & Exchange and MBDA National MED Week in Baltimore, where we focused on closing the equity gap, we now pivot towards Defining New Norms. In light of recent assaults on diversity, equity, and inclusion, it’s imperative that we set a course to champion the future of minority business enterprises (MBEs).
The stakes are high. In a world where every voice matters, it’s crucial for you to be in the room when we define new norms. This isn’t just about being at the table; it’s about pulling up a chair, sharing experiences, and collectively shaping the landscape for MBEs and corporations alike. Let’s pave the way forward, together.
Join us at the 2024 NMSDC Annual Conference & Exchange and MBDA National MED Week in Atlanta, October 20-23, 2024, where we’ll continue marching towards our ambitious goal to reach $1 trillion in NMSDC-certified MBE annual revenue by 2030. Help us rewrite the rules and propel us toward a future of inclusivity, prosperity, and equity!
NMSDC’s Annual Conference & Exchange programming will take place at the Georgia World Congress Center and features a diverse range of opportunities for growth and advancement. Join us for four days of dynamic content and networking, and make each moment count towards shaping your future success
Forge Connections, Accelerate Growth
Our mission centers on forging strategic partnerships that foster growth opportunities for emerging businesses and untapped markets, empowering them to redefine industry norms.
Don’t miss our Matchmaker event—an unparalleled opportunity to connect with prospective buyers and MBEs, explore lucrative business ventures, seek expert guidance, and secure essential capital for your journey towards success.

SBA’s Empower to Grow (E2G) Program - Navigating AI for Beginners: Understanding the Basics and Unlocking Opportunities
2024-10-22 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we live and work but getting started can feel overwhelming. This beginner-friendly webinar is designed to demystify AI and help you understand how it can benefit your business or career. We’ll cover the fundamental concepts of AI, real-world applications, and simple ways to integrate AI tools into your daily operations. Whether you’re curious about how AI works or want to explore how it can be applied in your industry, this webinar will provide you with a solid foundation to start your AI journey.
Key Takeaways:

Understanding the basics of AI and how it works
Real-world examples of AI applications across different industries
Introduction to common AI tools and how to use them
Tips for identifying opportunities to leverage AI in your business or career

This webinar is perfect for beginners, business professionals, and anyone interested in learning more about AI without the technical jargon. Join us to unlock the potential of AI and take the first step in navigating this exciting technology!

FTBA FDOT District 4/6/TPK Fall Contractor Meeting
2024-10-24 08:30 - 11:30 | FDOT D4 Auditorium, 3400 W Commercial Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33309, United States

SBA’s Empower to Grow (E2G) Program - Getting to Know the GSA: An Overview of the General Services Administration
2024-10-24 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Discover how the General Services Administration (GSA) can be a valuable resource for businesses seeking government contracting opportunities. In this webinar, we’ll provide a comprehensive introduction to the GSA, its mission, and how it serves as a central procurement hub for the federal government. You will learn about the GSA Schedule Program, the process of becoming a GSA-approved vendor, and the various services and solutions the GSA offers to government agencies. This session is designed to help you understand the benefits and opportunities of partnering with the GSA and how your business can tap into this essential market.
Key Takeaways:

Understanding the role and mission of the GSA in government procurement
An introduction to the GSA Schedule Program and how it works
Steps to becoming a GSA-approved contractor
Benefits and opportunities for businesses working with the GSA

This webinar is ideal for businesses interested in federal contracting, procurement professionals, and anyone looking to explore government sales opportunities through the GSA.

FTBA FDOT District 7 Fall Contractor Meeting
2024-10-29 09:30 - 12:30 | FDOT District 7 Auditorium, 11201 North McKinley Dr., Tampa, FL, 33612, United States

34th Annual Toyota Opportunity Exchange
2024-10-30 09:00 - 16:00 | Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI, 48374
This year, Toyota celebrates the 34th Annual Opportunity Exchange, reflecting its commitment to providing diverse businesses with a platform to discover the benefits of becoming a Toyota supplier. With access to over 150 of Toyota’s suppliers, educational seminars, guest speakers, networking sessions, and a dynamic tradeshow, the event offers everything Certified Diverse Suppliers need to take their business to the next level.
Since 1990, Opportunity Exchange has been a forum for MBEs and WBEs to build relationships and discuss opportunities for business growth. Over the years, millions of dollars in diverse supplier contracts have been generated as a direct result of connections made at Opportunity Exchange. It is a benchmark for supplier development within and outside the automotive industry, and its impact is immeasurable.
Let’s Move, Build, & Lead…TOGETHER
2024 KEY EVENT DETAILS:
EVENT: Opportunity Exchange
DATE: Wednesday, October 30th
LOCATION: Novi, Michigan
VENUE & DIRECTIONS: Suburban Collection Showplace
TIME:
9:30 am – 4 pm EST
Tradeshow: 1-4 pm EST

USDOT OSDBU - Connections MarketPlace: Buyer Side Chat - From Innovation to Execution: Best Practices and Lessons Learned in AI
2024-10-30 13:00 - 15:30 | Virtual
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) in collaboration with USDOT’s Highly Automated System Safety Center of Excellence (HASS COE) is organizing an industry webinar on Thursday, October 30, 2024 at 1:00pm ET. The virtual webinar aims to facilitate an informational exchange on bridging the gap between innovation and execution for small businesses that are contemplating competing for contracts to develop Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications to support automated transportation systems and transportation industry stakeholders.
What you will learn:

How to understanding the procurement landscape for AI
What elements to use in setting up your business to successfully compete for AI contracts
Why working with key stakeholders is important for growing your AI business

For any questions, please contact our office at 202-366-1930 or email us at dot-osdbu@dot.gov. Visit our website to find more about OSDBU, upcoming events, and available technical assistance.

FTBA FDOT District 2 Fall Contractor Meeting
2024-10-31 09:00 - 12:00 | FDOT District 2 Jacksonville Training Facility, 2198 Edison Ave, Jacksonville, FL, 32204, United States

SBA’s Empower to Grow (E2G) Program - Accelerating Growth: Strategies and Best Practices for Business Development
2024-10-31 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Are you looking to drive growth and expand your business opportunities? Join us for this comprehensive webinar, where we’ll explore the core principles of successful business development and share proven strategies to help you identify new markets, build strong partnerships, and boost revenue. Our experts will guide you through the process of creating an effective business development plan, mastering the art of networking, and leveraging tools that can take your organization to the next level.
Key Takeaways:

Understanding the fundamentals of business development and its role in growth
Strategies for identifying and pursuing new market opportunities
Tips for building and nurturing profitable business relationships
Best practices for creating a sustainable business development plan

This webinar is ideal for entrepreneurs, business owners, sales professionals, and anyone responsible for driving growth and expanding market reach. Don’t miss this chance to gain insights that can help you accelerate your business development efforts!
