Law Center News
Contract match-making and alternative lending are on the agenda for the 18th Annual Business and Procurement Conference
Over the past three years, the global pandemic shifted business contracts and opportunities. As society transitions to a new normal, entrepreneurs are, once again, regaining their footing within the business industry. To assist with this effort, Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension (SUAREC) has partnered with the Louisiana MBDA Business Center, Southern University Law Center, and the Louisiana Small Business Development Center at Southern University to host the 18th Annual Business and Procurement Conference scheduled for May 15-18, 2023 at L’Auberge Casino & Hotel Baton Rouge.
“The Southern University Ag Center has a rich and consistent history of enhancing the capacities of Louisiana’s small and rural businesses, as evidenced by the longevity of this conference,” said Dr. K. Allen, conference co-chair and FCS Program Leader and Assistant Specialist, Community and Economic Development (CED) for SUAREC. “This year, we are excited to partner with Southern University Law Center’s Louisiana MBDA Business Center, to expand our conference. We hope businesses join us to learn, grow and develop their businesses!”
The goal of the conference is to provide an opportunity for small business communities to network with larger companies and government agencies aimed at growing their businesses. It will be unique in that many of the sessions and contracting opportunities made available are a result of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. The $1.2 trillion appropriated in this bill is available to small businesses through procurement opportunities in federal, state, local, and even private businesses. Event sponsors include Entergy, B1 Bank Foundation, Chase Bank, Hope Credit Union, Pelican State Credit Union, Louisiana Economic Development (LED), and Apex Accelerator (formerly LA PTAC) from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Government partners include FEMA and the Department of Energy.
“This four-day conference will allow MBEs many opportunities to network with industry and grow their businesses -- from matchmaking with government and corporate entities to attending training and hands-on workshops designed to improve their business operations,” said Charletta Fortson, executive director of the Louisiana MBDA Business Center. “It is our goal to do more than just provide information but that all participants - especially our minority businesses walk away with tools, connections, and opportunities to scale."
“We are proud to be a sponsor,” said Will Campbell, Jr., director at b1 Bank Foundation and event sponsor. “We’re making a difference together.”
Entrepreneurs can expect contract matchmaking, networking, training, certifications, and more. In addition, learning paths are recommended for specialized session attendance. The conference is free and open to the public; however, registration is required.
To register and for more information, visit https://lasmallbizconference.vfairs.com/.
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