Utilization of small business concerns is a top priority of the current administration. A plethora of new laws, policies, and changing strategies impact this important aspect of federal contracting. The Coalition is fortunate to have a membership that includes innovative businesses of all sizes. Important objectives of the Coalition include being an information conduit regarding matters affecting small business policies and providing a voice for our vibrant small business members. Two years ago the Coalition launched a Small Business Committee that serves as an open forum for members to discuss acquisition policy and compliance issues, as well as Federal contracting opportunities that are unique to small businesses. The committee creates opportunities for members to have access to federal and industry experts and to work together to understand and succeed in the federal market. We have also sought to provide opportunities for small and large businesses to jointly leverage their capabilities to foster success in the federal market.
Continuing these important objectives, on July 23, 2014 the Coalition will host a Small Business Forum—Hot Topics Impacting Small Businesses and their Large Business Partners. Presenters include outstanding representatives from the Hill, government agencies, and industry. The Keynote speaker is Emily Murphy, Senior Counsel, House Committee on Small Business. The forum will feature a panel on Contractor Teaming Arrangements and Joint Ventures.These tools are important to all businesses, but particularly allow small businesses to develop new strategies for tackling the federal market. Despite the potential, there are many questions about the risks and rewards of these new strategies. From formation to payment, the Small Business Forum will provide a venue to have your questions answered by an outstanding panel with real world experience. The panelists include:
- Kenneth Dodds, Director, SBA
- Joseph Hornyak, Partner, Holland and Knight, LLP
- Mark Lee, Deputy Director, GSA, Office of Government-wide Policy
- Marian Morley, Vice President Government Sales and Operations, Allsteel
Chairmen of the Coalition’s Small Business Committee will moderate this session.
- Jim Connal, Vice President, Contracts and Compliance, Red River Computing
- Tom Walker, Government Manager, Nucraft, Furniture
The Small Business Forum will also be a great opportunity to:
- Catch up on initiatives such as strategic sourcing, and find out what to expect next for small businesses in the federal acquisition arena, and
- Network with companies that offer opportunities for teaming and subcontracting relationships. Companies already registered include some of the most successful contractors on the professional services, furniture GSA IT schedules and GWACs.
We hope that you will be able to join us for this engaging small business discussion. For additional information, click here.
Correction: Last week’s Flash stated that Vicksburg surrendered to the Army of the Potomac. Actually, Vicksburg surrendered to the Army of the Tennessee. Thanks to all those who pointed this out to me.
Roger Waldron
President