SBDC Co-Sponsors Business Procurement Fair May 12

SALISBURY, MD---Small businesses can compete with major corporations when bidding on government contracts. To help small business owners learn how to pursue business with state and local agencies, the Small Business Development Center at Salisbury University co-hosts "Business Growth Using Government Doors of Opportunity," a government procurement fair, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday, May 12, in the Wicomico Room of the Guerrieri University Center. Showcasing the wide variety of goods and services government agencies procure via contracts both large and small-from construction and creative services to painting and pens-the fair provides information on the procurement process for state and local agencies. Topics include information about necessary certifications and registrations, and procurement tips, strategies and marketing. Following informational presentations and workshops, those attending will have an opportunity to speak one-on-one with procurement officials from various agencies. Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele keynotes the fair's luncheon at noon, speaking on the event's procurement theme, including small and minority business opportunities. Other speakers include Maryland Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP) Director Greg Prouty and two of the Maryland Department of Transportation's (MDOT) most tenured procurement officials, Mark Pemberton and Brian McAllister. Sponsored by the SBDC, PTAP and MDOT, the cost is $25 per person, including lunch and all materials. Advance registration is required. For more information call Terry Cohen at 410-543-6516 or Jacqueline Jones at 1-888-713-1414, ext. 1180, or e-mail tecohen@salisbury.edu or jjones2@mdot.state.md.us.