The State of Oklahoma will host its fourth State Suppliers Expo on September 25-26, 2024, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. This event facilitates networking between local businesses and state leaders, offering opportunities to learn about state bidding and purchasing. Significant business has been generated from previous expos, emphasizing their importance in connecting local enterprises with government projects. Key features for 2024 include targeted breakout sessions and direct engagement opportunities with state contacts. Attendance is free with prior registration required until September 13.
The State of Oklahoma is set to host its fourth State Suppliers Expo, a premier government-business networking and educational event, scheduled for September 25-26 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. This event offers a unique opportunity for businesses to engage with state leaders across various government sectors, explore partnership prospects, become state bidders, and gain insights into the state purchasing process—all in one accessible venue. Amanda Otis, the state purchasing director, emphasized the significance of the expo, stating, “This event is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with local businesses and see how they can help us meet the needs of our state. Working closely with the private sector means the state can complete projects more efficiently and provide better services to Oklahomans, and the expo helps us find the best partners to make our community stronger and more successful.” Over the past three years, the State Suppliers Expo has successfully linked the State of Oklahoma with local businesses, fostering enduring relationships. Since participating in the previous expo, attendees have engaged in approximately $4.8 million worth of business with state agencies, of which $4.2 million was directed towards Oklahoma-based companies. To enhance the experience for 2024, the expo will introduce new features informed by past attendee feedback. The two-day event will include one day dedicated to networking, paired with a comprehensive lineup of breakout sessions on strategies for conducting business with state entities. Noteworthy segments will include a State of Construction Breakfast led by Nathan Wald, the administrator for Capital Assets Management, and a State of Technology Luncheon moderated by Joe McIntosh, the state chief information officer, addressing the effects of emerging technologies on health and human services. Additionally, a new segment, the Oklahoma Business Matchup, will offer the first 160 pre-registered companies the chance to engage directly with state contacts through pre-arranged 15-minute meetings. Furthermore, local small businesses will have the opportunity to attend an Oklahoma Small Business Contracting Opportunities breakout session facilitated by Oklahoma CareerTech’s APEX Accelerator program, and a National Contract Opportunities breakout session hosted by the National Association of State Procurement Officials will be accessible to all interested companies. David Crawford, CEO of TruCleanz Distribution, a Native American and veteran-owned enterprise, remarked on the value of the expo for small business owners. He stated, “This is a free event for you to bring your game face, visit several state agencies in the same room, and promote yourself all in one day. As a small business entrepreneur … I have a very small promotional budget, [and the State Suppliers Expo] gives me a chance to promote myself to many agencies at once without a large cost.” The State Suppliers Expo welcomes businesses of all sizes and sectors without charge, with pre-registration available until September 13. For further information and updates, please visit oklahoma.gov/stateyourbusiness.
The State Suppliers Expo serves as a vital link between the government and private sectors in Oklahoma, facilitating opportunities for local businesses to engage with state agencies. This gathering not only allows businesses to learn about state contracting processes but also fosters partnerships that enhance the delivery of services to the community. The expo has gained traction over the years, resulting in significant business conducted between attendees and state agencies, thereby contributing to the economic development of the state. Each year, organizers seek feedback to improve the event, ensuring that it remains a valuable resource for business development and State collaboration.
The upcoming State Suppliers Expo is poised to be a landmark event that bridges the gap between Oklahoma businesses and government opportunities. It promises to enhance networking possibilities, provide crucial insights into state purchasing processes, and create lasting partnerships. With no registration fee, it represents a unique avenue for businesses to promote themselves and explore lucrative opportunities, thereby contributing to the overall growth and success of the Oklahoma economy.
Original Source: journalrecord.com
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