On Saturday, March 14, the Macon-Bibb County Office of Small Business Affairs (OSBA) is inviting local entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses and compete for government contracts to the Vendor Readiness & Contracting Workshop. It will take place from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Macon Mall (3661 Eisenhower Parkway).
The free workshop is designed to help small businesses at every stage, from startups to established companies, better understand how to work with Macon-Bibb County and compete for County contracting opportunities. The workshop will be offered in both English and Spanish to ensure the information is accessible to more members of the community.
Participants will learn the basics of government contracting, including how the bidding process works, how to respond to RFQs and RFPs, and what resources and certifications may help their business compete more effectively. They will also receive guidance on financial readiness, marketing and networking, and opportunities specifically available for women and minority-owned businesses.
“At the Macon-Bibb Office of Small Business Affairs, we believe opportunity should never be limited by access to information,” says OSBA Director Charise Stephens-Merriweather. “That’s why we host training programs like this bilingual contractor workshop — to make sure every entrepreneur, every contractor, and every small business owner has the tools, knowledge, and confidence to compete and succeed. When we invest in training, we invest in stronger businesses, stronger families, and a stronger Macon-Bibb community.”
Presenters for the workshop include Ricardo Cordew, Charise Stephens-Merriweather, and Crystal Spellman, along with translators from NotiVision. They will walk participants through the county’s procurement process, including how to navigate the Macon-Bibb procurement website, where businesses can view active and closed bids.
Participants will also have the opportunity to begin the vendor registration process during the workshop and receive technical assistance completing the vendor form.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to bring a notepad, pen, and a laptop if available, though a laptop is not required.
For more information, call 336-708-6823 or email info@diligent4lifeglobal.com.