Contract and Bid Opportunities

Contracting Opportunities

2011-03-03T17:55:00.001-06:00

Event Name: Research Services
Company Name: Research Buyer
Close Date: 23 Dec 2011	Project amount: $0.01 to $0.02USD (Est.)
Commodity: Market research on location surveys, Market research telephone surveys, Market research one on one interviews, Preparation of commodity market surveys, Internet based market research	Sales Territories: Australia, Hong Kong, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Chile, Brazil, Spain, Italy, Japan, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, United States, Portugal, India

You can now introduce yourself to buyers in an active purchasing cycle with Ariba Discovery eIntros. You get the opportunity to introduce your organization before a buyer moves forward with their existing suppliers. Information is kept anonymous until the buyer decides to contact you. If you feel you are qualified, you can respond to the eIntro.

New eIntros


Company Name: Ariba Discovery Buyer
Close Date: 28 Mar 2011	Project amount: $10K USD or less
Commodity: Marketing analysis, Market intelligence or competitive analysis, Marketing plans	Sales Territories: Australia, India, Japan, Turkey, United Kingdom, Brazil, United States, Peru

Company Name: Ariba Discovery Buyer
Close Date: 7 Mar 2011	Project amount: $10K USD or less
Commodity: Computer vocational training services, Computer hardware maintenance or support, Wide area network WAN maintenance or support, Technical support or help desk services, Local area network LAN maintenance or support, Computer or network or internet security	Sales Territories: United States

Company Name: Ariba Discovery Buyer
Close Date: 16 Mar 2011	Project amount: $10K USD or less
Commodity: Information technology consultation services	Sales Territories: China, United States

Company Name: Ariba Discovery Buyer
Close Date: 30 Mar 2011	Project amount: $10K USD or less
Commodity: Business intelligence consulting services	Sales Territories: United States

Company Name: Ariba Discovery Buyer
Close Date: 21 Mar 2011	Project amount: $10K USD or less
Commodity: Information technology consultation services	Sales Territories: United States

Internet http://www.ibsa-inc.org | Click to receive bid notifications by email

39 Rainbow Phase 1 Bid Package #1

2011-03-01T12:53:00.001-06:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Deryl Sarver <dsarver@crosslandconstruction.com>

Attached is an invitation to bid site grading, erosion control and storm sewer work for a project in Kansas City, Kansas. The job is located at the corner of Rainbow Blvd & Marty Ave. on the south side of the intersection and will bid March 15, 2011 @ 2:00 pm. The attached has bidding instruction, and locations where persons can obtain plans. As well as the listed plan holders, persons can obtain electronic plans from the below link. If you have any questions please contact me at the below.

ftp://files.crosslandconstruction.com

username: rainbow

password: 39

Thank You,

Deryl Sarver

Project Manager

833 S. East Ave, P.O. Box 45

Columbus, KS 66725

Phone: 620-429-1414 Fax: 620-429-3405

Cell: 620-762-2676

dsarver@crosslandconstruction.com

website: www.crosslandconstruction.com

Internet http://www.ibsa-inc.org | Click to receive bid notifications by email

Join Us On Facebook: www.facebook.com/ibsainc

COLUMBUS NAACP OFFERS NEW CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITES

2011-02-20T12:01:00.000-06:00

-----Original Message-----

From: "Columbus NAACP" [columbusnaacp1@juno.com]

Date: 02/17/2011 08:21 AM

HILTON WORLDWIDE

COLUMBUS CONVENTION CENTER

Match Maker Mixer

CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITES

Tuesday,March 15,2011

When: March 15th at 6:00pm until 8:00 pm.

Where: The Greater Columbus Convention Center

Room C-120 to 122 North Facility

Parking: West Garage located on the corner of Vine and High St.

Click Image Below To View Video of Hilton Columbus Downtown

THE PERFECT MATCH

Building Destinations. Creating Opportunities.

The Columbus NAACP has partnered with the

Greater Columbus Convention Center and Hilton Hotels to create new opportunities for economic development and empowerment for this community.

MIXER HIGHLIGHTS

Prime contractors to network with MBE/WBE/EDGE sub-contractors on bid opportunities.

Bid Package #5 include:

Sinage

Case/Countertops

Flooring, Painting / Wall Covering

Landscaping

BID DATE: March 25, 2011

TO R.S.V.P.

Log onto: http://diversityinclusionpartners.com

Email: columbusnaacp1@att.net

Call the NAACP at 614-464-1108

DON'T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO

JOIN THE VISION

Refreshments will be served.

This is a Business Branding Blast from Urban Trendsetters Media, LLC

6172 Busch Blvd., Suite 2054 • Columbus, Ohio 43229 • Phone: 866-970-4887

www.urbantrendsetters.com

Click to receive bid notifications by email

U.S. DOE - 12th Annual Small Business Conference & Expo

2011-02-17T09:56:00.001-06:00

From: Donnetta.Cole@modot.mo.gov

http://smallbusinessconference.energy.gov/index.php/register-for-small-business-conference

This is the link for registration to the DOE's page for the upcoming:

U.S. Department of Energy
12th Annual Small Business Conference & Expo
May 10th - 12th - Kansas City, MO
Kansas City Convention Center

Attendee Registration Rates
Early Bird Registration (until 2/28/2011): $275.00
Regular Registration (3/1/2011 to 5/8/2011): $350.00
Onsite Registration (5/9/2011 to 5/12/2011): $400.00

Join us on Facebook

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Promote Your Business Online

US Small Biz Directory

KS Small Biz Directory

OK Small Biz Directory

ACDBE / DBE / WBE / MBE / OBE - San Diego Airport RFP - Concession Opportunities - High Flying Foods

2011-02-15T17:38:00.001-06:00

If you are not certified through the California Unified Certification Program, contact them at http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/bep/ucp.htm regarding a reciprocated/expedited certification process for DBEs or SBA certified firms. You must be certified in your home state to qualify for the reciprocated/expedited process.

From: Alexandra Haynes [mailto:alexandra.haynes

High Flying Foods has opportunities available for contractors and

concessionaires.

Please view the opportunities below and if you are interested, please

complete the attached response form and send (fax / email / scan / mail) it

to their office.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

OPPORTUNITY NUMBER 1

High Flying Foods is a California-based, leading boutique food and

beverage operator that is redefining airport dining. High Flying Foods is

seeking entrepreneurs* interested in subleasing and/or partnering in food

and beverage concessions at San Diego International Airport (SAN), as

part of High Flying Foods' proposal for the upcoming Request for Proposals

for the San Diego airport's eight (8) food and beverage concessions

program.

This opportunity is for ACDBE, DBE, MBE, WBE, or OBE operators with

relevant food and beverage experience within airport food and beverage

locations and/or other food and beverage locations.

If you are interested in receiving further information, please complete the

enclosed response form and send (fax / email / scan / mail) it to our office.

* Respondent must be certified in the State of California as an ACDBE,

DBE, MBE, WBE, or OBE by the California Unified Certification Program

pursuant to Federal Regulation 49 CFR Part 23 & 26 OR must have

submitted a complete certification application by May 2, 2011.

Please email Jason Wilk at Jason or call

(415) 243.8908 for further information.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

OPPORTUNITY NUMBER 2

High Flying Foods is a California-based, leading boutique food and

beverage operator that is redefining airport dining. High Flying Foods is

seeking (contractors, sub-contractors, and/or Vendors*) vendors for the

upcoming food and beverage concession opportunities at San Diego

International Airport, as part of the Request for Proposal for Food Service

concessions, including eight (8) food and beverage packages.

This opportunity is for ACDBE, DBE, MBE, WBE, or OBE operators with

relevant construction, contracting/trades, and/or vendors related to

restaurant experience within airport locations and/or other locations.

If you are interested in receiving further information, please complete the

enclosed response form and send (fax / email / scan / mail) it to our office

by Friday, February 18, 2011.

* Respondent must be certified in the State of California as an ACDBE,

DBE, MBE, WBE, or OBE by the California Unified Certification Program

pursuant to Federal Regulation 49 CFR Part 23 & 26 OR must have

submitted a complete certification application by May 2, 2011.

Please email Jason Wilk at Jason or call (415) 243.8908 for further information.

High Flying Foods - San Diego Airport RFP - Concession Outreach - Food and Beverage Operators.pdf (http://ibsacontracting.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/high-flying-foods-san-diego-airport-rfp-concession-outreach-food-and-beverage-operators.pdf)

High Flying Foods - San Diego Airport RFP - Response Form - Food and Beverage Operators.xlsx (http://ibsacontracting.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/high-flying-foods-san-diego-airport-rfp-response-form-food-and-beverage-operators.xlsx)

High Flying Foods - San Diego Airport RFP - Concession Outreach - Contractors, Sub-contractors, and Vendors.pdf (http://ibsacontracting.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/high-flying-foods-san-diego-airport-rfp-concession-outreach-contractors-sub-contractors-and-vendors.pdf)

High Flying Foods - San Diego Airport RFP - Response Form - Contractors, Subcontractors and Vendors.xlsx (http://ibsacontracting.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/high-flying-foods-san-diego-airport-rfp-response-form-contractors-subcontractors-and-vendors.xlsx)

Contracting Program for Women-Owned Small Businesses Goes Live Friday

2011-02-09T17:14:00.000-06:00

SBA Announces Contracting Program
For Women-Owned Small Businesses

First Contracts Expected to be Awarded through WOSB Program
By Critical Fourth Quarter of Fiscal Year 2011

****************

Release Date: February 1, 2011
Contact: Tiffani Clements (202) 401-0035
Release Number: 11-09
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news

****************

WASHINGTON – Women-owned small businesses can begin taking steps to participate in a new federal contracting program on Friday, Feb. 4, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced today. The new Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract Program will be fully implemented over the next several months, with the first contracts expected to be awarded by the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2011.

"Implementing the Women-Owned Small Business contracting rule has been a top priority for the Obama Administration and SBA," said Administrator Karen Mills. "Women-owned businesses are one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy. As we continue to look to small businesses to grow, create jobs and lead America into the future, women-owned businesses will play a key role. That's why providing them with all the tools necessary to compete for and win federal contracts is so important. Federal contracts can provide women-owned small businesses with the oxygen they need to take their business to the next level."

The WOSB Federal Contract Program will provide greater access to federal contracting opportunities for WOSBs and economically-disadvantaged women-owned small businesses (EDWOSBs). The Program allows contracting officers, for the first time, to set aside specific contracts for certified WOSBs and EDWOSBs and will help federal agencies achieve the existing statutory goal of five percent of federal contracting dollars being awarded to WOSBs.

On Feb. 4, SBA will release instructions on how to participate in the program, as well as launch the secure, online data repository for WOSBs to upload required documents, on its website: www.sba.gov/wosb (http://www.sba.gov/wosb) . SBA will also release an application to become an SBA-approved third party certifier for this program on that date. This will be the first version of the application. SBA welcomes comments and suggestions on this first version of the application.

During the ramp up period over the next several months, SBA is encouraging small business owners to review program requirements and ensure their required documents are uploaded to the repository. WOSBs also will need to update their status in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) and the Online Representation and Certification Application (ORCA) to indicate to contracting officers that they are eligible to participate. The General Services Administration is currently updating these systems and they are expected to be completed in April, 2011.

Similarly, the WOSB rule in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), which is the companion to the SBA rule, is now going through final review, and is also expected to be issued by April. With these pieces in place, SBA expects to see the first contracts awarded through the program by the all-important fourth quarter, when the largest percent of federal contracts are awarded.

Every firm that wishes to participate in the WOSB program must meet the eligibility requirements and either self-certify or obtain third party certification. At this time, SBA has not approved any third party certifiers. Regardless of their certification method, WOSBs must also upload required documents proving their eligibility to a secure online data repository developed and maintained by SBA.

To qualify as a WOSB, a firm must be at least fifty-one percent owned and controlled by one or more women, and primarily managed by one or more women. The women must be U.S. citizens and the firm must be considered small according to SBA size standards. To be deemed "economically disadvantaged", a firm's owners must meet specific financial requirements set forth in the program regulations.

The WOSB Program identifies eighty-three four-digit North American Industry Classification Systems (NAICS) codes where WOSBs are underrepresented or substantially underrepresented. Contracting officers may set aside contracts in these industries if the contract can be awarded at a fair and reasonable price, the contracting officer has a reasonable expectation that two or more WOSBs or EDWOSBs will submit offers for the contract and the anticipated contract price is not greater than $5 million for manufacturing contracts and $3 million for other contracts.

Each stage of implementation is part of SBA's mission to make the Program efficient and user-friendly, and to ensure its benefits go only to qualifying WOSBs. SBA is excited to launch this new program to provide WOSBs with increased opportunities to compete for and win federal contracts, ultimately helping WOSBs create and retain more jobs.

For more information on the Women-Owned Small Business Program or to access the instructions, applications or database, please visit www.sba.gov/wosb (http://www.sba.gov/wosb) .

# # #

Certification News: - February 2011

2011-02-03T16:14:00.001-06:00

MBE/WBE: To Certify or Not to Certify?

At KCSourceLink, we have clients who need help to certify their businesses as minority-owned or women-owned businesses. However, certifying your business as a MBE/WBE is not a benefit for all businesses. See if it's worth your business's time and effort to certify your business as a women-owned or minority-owned business.

New Certification for Small Business

The City of Kansas City, Missouri offers a new certification for small business. The SLBE (Small Local Business Enterprise) certification is open to small, for-profit businesses in Cass, Clay, Jackson, Johnson, Platte, Wyandotte, and Leavenworth counties.

To learn more, download the SLBE certification application or call the Human Relations Department at 816-513-1836.

Register for Chicago Dept. of Aviation Concessions Open House

2011-01-31T09:47:00.001-06:00

Chicago Department of Aviation

The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) will host a Concessions Open House event for operators interested in responding to an upcoming RFP relating to food and beverage concessions at Midway International Airport along with ATM, Foreign Currency and Banking Services at both O'Hare and Midway International Airports.

Multiple in-line locations will be available for lease in 2011 and 2012 in the above categories.

The Concessions Open House event will take place on the following date:

Thursday, February 10, 2011
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Malcolm X College
1900 West Van Buren St
Chicago, IL 60612

City of Chicago departments will be on site to answer questions about the City's certification, licensing and small business programs.

Space is limited. Online registration for the Concessions Open House is available at www.flychicago.com/concessionsopenhouse

CORPORATE REPRODUCTION and MAIL CENTER

2011-01-24T18:12:00.001-06:00

Title	CORPORATE REPRODUCTION and MAIL CENTER
Project Amount	$100K to $1M USD
End Date	Wednesday 26 Jan 2011 11:59 PM PST
Commodity	Temporary production staffing needs Temporary technician staffing needs Permanent professional staff
Company Name	Convenience Store
Sales Territories	United States Massachusetts (United States)

Remember, business opportunities can close early or be cancelled. Respond now!

What should you do next?

Click here to view the details

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DENVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Concession Opportunity Outreach Session

2011-01-24T17:40:00.001-06:00

DENVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Concession Opportunity Outreach Session

February 8, 2011, 9:00 a.m.11:00 a.m.
Wellington E. Webb Bldg., Room 4.F.
6201 W. Colfax Avenue
Denver, Colorado

Those interested in learning how to do business at an airport are invited to attend an informational outreach session presented by Denver International Airport beginning at 9:00 a.m. on February 8, 2011 for seven upcoming opportunities; two retail and five food and beverage. The specifics of these opportunities are not yet available but will be released in March 2011.This session will cover the following topics:

· Doing business at airports.
· Explanation of the Request for Proposal process
· Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprises
· Financing and amortization of your business

Next steps:
To reserve a seat, you must RSVP by February 4with your name and company to concessions .

For those who are unable to attend, the PowerPoint presentation will be posted online by February 9, 2011

Alex Haynes
Membership Development Manager

Airport Minority Advisory Council
318 Kelsey Blvd
Charleston, SC 29492
Phone: 703-414-2622
Mobile: 843-323-0172
Fax: 843-377-8065
www.amac-org.com (http://www.amac-org.com/) website

AMAC's Mission: To create success for minorities and women in the airport industry

UPCOMING AMAC EVENTS:
2011 AMAC/FAA Airport Business Diversity Conference, June 4-7, 2011, Fort Worth, TX

(http://amac-org.com/annualconference.html)

2012 AMAC/FAA Airport Business Diversity Conference, June 9-12, 2012, St. Louis, MO

The Airport Minority Advisory Council

Since its inception more than 25 years ago, AMAC has been at the forefront of nearly every national policy initiative impacting the participation of minority, women, and disadvantaged business enterprises in airport contracting. AMAC works consistently with Congress, the Federal Government, aviation trade associations and others as a resource for information, education and guidance on business and employment matters. For more information or to join AMAC, please visit www.amac-org.com (http://www.amac-org.com/) .
(See attached file: 20110124110716.pdf)

(http://ibsacontracting.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/20110124110716.pdf)

Add a comment to this post: http://ibsacontracting.wordpress.com/2011/01/24/denver-international-airport-concession-opportunity-outreach-session/#respond

Turner School of Construction Management Classes - Kansas City Kansas

2011-01-19T17:08:00.001-06:00

-----Original Message-----
Date: 01/18/2011 04:06 PM

Please see the attached document for information on classes for the Turner School of Construction Management. For the first time the classes will be held in Kansas City, KS.

These classes are designed to enhance the technical and managerial skills of small minority and women-owned businesses, in order to make a profit and build a reputation of efficiently managing a construction contract. The skills learned from the classes will help promote future work and increase your ability to be competitive. The program assists firms in obtaining certification from the City, as well as Turner Subcontractor Certification.

How will participants be selected?

• Businesses should be in the construction industry and/or a construction related field.

• Your firm should be a growing M/W/DBE firm.

• Space is limited to

40 participants.

• No more than two people per company are able to attend the classes due to demand.

• You will be notified if you have been selected to participate in the 2011 class.

Upon completion of this program you will be able to:

• Describe necessary elements for being a contractor

• Identify challenges of being a contractor

• Describe fundamentals of estimating

• Define construction management

• Describe effective methods for locating, managing and scheduling work

• Explain key concepts of contract management

• Locate resources within the construction industry

• Describe Turner's expectations of contractors

How much do the classes cost?

Turner, along with our sponsors, will pick up the entire cost of the program; there is

NO fee or tuition for the participants.

Program:

March 2

nd - April 20th

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday evenings for 8 weeks

Location:

YWCA of Greater Kansas City

1017 N. 6th Street

Kansas City, KS 66101

913.371.1105

Kick-off Luncheon - February 24

Wednesday, February 24
th, 2011
Jack Reardon Center

520 Minnesota Avenue

Kansas City, KS 66101

11:30 a.m. -1:00 p.m.

Registration is 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Lunch is 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people. - Eleanor Roosevelt

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New Regional Administrator in SBA Region VII

2011-01-12T15:24:00.001-06:00

Patricia Brown-Dixon Appointed
Administrator for SBA Region VII

******************
Release Date: 1/12/11
Contact: June Teasley (816) 426-4845
Release Number: 11-05
Internet Address: http://www.sba.gov/news****************** WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration announced the appointment of Patricia Brown-Dixon to be Regional Administrator for Region VII, which encompasses Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. Brown-Dixon has worked for the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) for more than 25 years. Currently, she serves as Director of the Heartland Office of Small Business Utilization. In that role, she is responsible for managing the agency's efforts to support small businesses in the region. "Pat has worked with and supported small businesses throughout her public service career," said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. "I'm pleased that as Region VII Administrator, she will be able to draw on her strong ties to the region and a wealth of experience providing tools and resources to small businesses so they can grow and create jobs." "I'm excited to be joining Administrator Mills, and the SBA staff here in the region and throughout the country," said Brown-Dixon. "I look forward to helping implement the Small Business Jobs Act and supporting the small businesses in Region VII that are the engine of our economy." Brown-Dixon has spent her career working alongside the small businesses in the four-state region, as well as across the country. She serves as the Chairperson of the Small Business Committee of the Greater Kansas City Federal Executive Board. She has won numerous awards for small business advocacy, including the SBA Kansas City District Office's 1995 Minority Business Advocate of the Year award. In 2007, she received the Excellence in Partnership Award from the Coalition of Government Procurement, and in 2009, she was named Advocate of the Year by the Greater Kansas City Minority Enterprise Development Week Committee. Just recently she was selected as a 2011 Woman of Influence by the Kansas City Business Magazine. Brown-Dixon has a Bachelor's Degree in Business and Education from Philander Smith College, in Little Rock, Ark., and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo. She has one son. As Region VII Administrator, Brown-Dixon will oversee SBA operations throughout its district offices in Des Moines, Iowa; St. Louis and Kansas City, Mo.; Omaha, Neb.; and Wichita, Kan.

Course development for Major Information Company

2011-01-07T13:34:00.001-06:00

Title	Course development for Major Information Company
Project Amount	$1.00 to $500,000.00USD (Est.)
ID	1480701
Start Date	Friday 7 Jan 2011 8:54 AM PST
End Date	Friday 14 Jan 2011 11:59 PM PST
Commodity	Specialized Educational Services Employee Education
Company Name	Major Information Services Company
Sales Territories	Any Territories
Description	A major information company will be conducting an upcoming RFP related to creating a suite of training material for internal use. The objective is to locate a supplier for educational content creation and course development for a global ERP initiative. The strategic partner will need to supply an end-to-end solution and must include both instructor led and web based materials. The initiative will require approximately 20 different courses for a target audience of 1500 employees. This RFP is being issued via the Ariba eSourcing tool and all communications (questions, etc.) shall be addressed via the tool. Questions asked through other sources will not be answered. If interested in participating in this RFP, please respond with your contact information and website. Please provide descriptions of similar projects you have completed in the past. Responses to the RFP will be due no later than Friday, January 14, 2011.</p>

What should you do next?

Click here to view the details

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Solicitation for GSA Construction Management Services IDIQ Small Business Set-Aside Contract for Kansas City closes January 10, 2011

2010-12-22T16:32:00.001-06:00

Small businesses interested in bidding on the GSA Construction Management
Services IDIQ Contract for the Kansas City SMSA should log on to
www.fbo.gov and enter the solicitation number, GS06P10GZC0009 for further
information..

Pat Brown-Dixon
General Services Administration
Office Phone 816-926-7203
Office of Small Business Utilization (6ADB)
http://www.gsa.gov/r6smallbusiness

Assessment of HR Administrative Functions

2010-12-22T11:11:00.001-06:00

Title	Assessment of HR Administrative Functions
Project Amount	$50K to $100K USD
ID	1471535
Start Date	Wednesday 22 Dec 2010 7:21 AM PST
End Date	Friday 31 Dec 2010 11:59 PM PST
Commodity	Information technology consultation services Business intelligence consulting services Business and corporate management consultation services Organizational structure consultation Strategic planning consultation services
Company Name	Global Fashion Retailer
Sales Territories	United States Canada
Description	* This is not an RFP, we are just collecting supplier information. We are a leading global retailer and are interested in reviewing capabilities of suppliers that can provide an assessment of our HR Administrative Capabilities in North America. Retail industry experience is required. Please provide us with the following by Friday, December 31: - Your annual revenue - An overview of your company's services and capabilities - Geographic coverage of service - Current retail companies you work with ** Please do not submit attachments with your response. We will contact you for additional information if needed.

What should you do next?

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SBA Unveils New Website and Launches SBA Direct

2010-12-21T12:46:00.001-06:00

SBA Unveils New Website and Launches SBA Direct - A New Tool Delivering Personalized and Targeted Resources

SBA.gov Demonstrates Agency's Commitment to Transformation – Giving Small Business Owners Quick and Easy Access to the Resources they need to Succeed and Create Jobs

****************

SBA NEWS RELEASE
Release Date: December 21, 2010
Contact: Carol Chastang (202) 205-6987
Release Number: 10-73
Internet Address: carol.chastang@sba.gov

****************

WASHINGTON – As part of the U.S. Small Business Administration's mission to ensure that small business owners and entrepreneurs have access to accurate, timely and helpful information, SBA Administrator Karen Mills today unveiled a newly re-designed SBA website. The new site also features the launch of SBA Direct, a dynamic new web tool with a variety of personalization features that will help small businesses start-up, succeed and grow.

"With the launch of the new SBA.gov, we have reached a significant milestone in how the agency has evolved in using interactive web tools, social media and blogs to engage with, and better meet the needs of small business owners," said SBA Administrator, Karen Mills. "While the SBA website has traditionally been an information-rich site, we wanted to make it easier for small business owners to navigate. With the new improved SBA.gov, business owners can access the answers they need, specific to their business profile, in an instant – it truly presents the face of the future of SBA."

While the site features a variety of enhancements including a full re-design, new content, and improved navigation, the centerpiece is a dynamic new web tool called SBA Direct.

SBA Direct allows visitors to personalize their browsing experience according to their business type, geography and needs. SBA Direct then delivers relevant and targeted information on all aspects of running a business such as the steps involved in getting started, business growth strategies, and how to stay compliant with current laws and regulations. SBA Direct also provides information on the available SBA programs that can help businesses succeed, such as financial assistance, exporting and government contracting opportunities, counseling and training.

"Transforming the SBA into a proactive, responsive and 'customer-centric' organization that better serves the needs of the nation's more than 29 million small businesses is an exciting, yet enormous effort," said Mills. "We've made significant progress, and the new SBA.gov is just one example among many, including record growth capital financing, expedited loan approvals and the acceleration of disaster assistance resources and funds of how SBA has, and will continue to support the growth of small businesses and job creation."

Other new features to the web site include:
• SBA's small business search that improves the accuracy and relevancy of search results —saving time and frustration.
• Improved navigation that gives users one-click access to the information they need. Combined with the personalization features of SBA Direct, users no longer have to mine through pages of information to find answers.
• Integration of Business.gov content including a variety of guides and tools that collate information from across government agencies to help business owners comply with laws and regulations, and take advantage of government programs.
• Interactive location-based maps that allow users to quickly find small business resources in their area, including local SBA offices, and other sources of training and support.
• User-rated content gives visitors to the site direct control in determining the most useful and relevant information to feature by small business topic.

SBA's commitment to using web services to provide small businesses with greater access to the pool of government resources available began in 2006 with the launch of the award-winning Business.gov website, and later with the Business.gov Community initiative in 2009 (the first government-sponsored online community built specifically for small businesses), and more recently with SBA's own social media presence on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

The new SBA.gov built on these achievements and best practices as a driver for its transformation. The project is also a flagship for the agency's Open Government Plan, with the goal of building an online presence for SBA that is transparent, participatory and collaborative.

###

Keywords: SBA, Small Business Administration, open government, Gov 2.0, Business.gov, social media, Karen Mills, entrepreneurs, lending programs, social networks, government website, open gov, collaboration, transparency, small business loans, disaster assistance.

Type of Vendor Opportunities with the Kansas Hollywood Casino @ the Speedway

2010-12-17T14:06:00.001-06:00

Operations Contracting opportunities

Accounting Firm/Auditor

Advertising

Apparel Retail

Arcade Supplies

Art/Artwork

Audio/Visual Equipment

Aviation Supplies/Services

Bakery/Pastry Goods

Baking Supplies

Bank/Financial Institution

Banquet Equipment

Banquet Furniture

Bar Supplies

Bathroom Fixtures

Beer/Wine/Liquor

Beverage Equipment

Bowling supplies

Building Contractor

Building Materials

Cards/Chips/Dice

Cart R&M

Casino Equipment

Catering/Foodservice

Chemical Supplies

China

Cleaning Equipment

Cleaning Services

Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning/Repairs Maintenance

Coin Equipment

College/Education Institution

Computer Equipment

Computer Software

Consulting Services

Contract Services

Cosmetics/Makeup/Skin Care

Courier/Mail Services

Dairy

Donations Non-profit/Charity

Employee

Employment Services

Entertainment/Entertainers Fees

Equipment Miscellaneous

F & B Disposables

F & B Operating Equipment

Facilities/Engineering R&M

Facilities/Engineering/MRO

Fire Safety Equipment

Fitness Equipment

Fitness Supplies

Fixtures Miscellaneous

Floor Coverings

Flowers/Floral Arrangements

Forms/Printing/ Stationery

Frozen Foods

Fuels

Furniture Hotel Room

Furniture Office

Furniture Public Area

Gaming Supplies

Gaming Tables/Equipment/Furniture

Gifts/Gift Baskets

Glassware

Golf Equipment

Golf/Country Club

Government/Agency

Groceries/Dry Goods

Guest Amenities/Guest Supplies

Hospital/Clinic Services

Hotel/Lodging

Housekeeping Supplies

HVAC

Insurance Products

Insurance Services

Intercompany Expenses

Investigative/Inspection Services

Jewelry

Kitchen Equipment

Kitchen Supplies

Kitchen Utensils

Labor/Temporary Services

Landscaping Services

Laundry Equipment

Laundry Supplies

Laundry/Linen/Dry Cleaning Services

Leased Land/Space

Legal Services

Light Bulbs

Lighting Fixtures

Linens

Maintenance Contracts

Marine Parts/Supply/Service

Meat

Medical Supplies/Services

Memberships/Associations

Menus

MRO Operating Supplies

Office Equipment

Office Supplies

Oil/Grease/Additives

Operating Equipment

Operating Supplies

Paint/Paint Supplies

Party/Decoration Supplies

Patron

Periodicals/Newspapers/Subscriptions

Pest Control

Photography Supplies/Services

Pool Services

Pool Supplies

Pool/Patio/Beach Furniture

Postage/Express Mail

Poultry

Produce

Professional Services

Promotional/Logo Items

Publications/Books

Racing Animal Services

Racing Animal Supplies

Racing Equipment/Supplies

Racing OTB

Racing Services

Radio/Television Services

Recycle Service

Rental Services

Restaurant/Bar/Retail Furn/Equip

Retail Supplies

Safety/Security Equipment

Seafood

Sewage/Water Treatment

Signage

Silver/Flatware

Slot Supplies

Slot/Video Machines

Soda/Bottled Water/Mixes

Software Maintenance Agreements

Sound/Communication Equipment

Spa Fixtures/Equipment

Spa Supplies

Special Events/Banquet/Convention

Sponsorship

Stage Equipment & Supplies

Steward Supplies

Stewarding Equipment

Sundries

Tabletop

Telecommunications Services

Telecommunications Equipment

Telephone Equipment

Televisions/DVD/Stereos/Radios

Tent/Canopies/Port Bldgs

Tobacco Products

Tools

Tours

Trade Show

Training/Services/Education

Transportation Services

Travel

Trophies/Awards/Badges

Uniforms/Uniform Supplies

Upholstery Supplies

Utilities

Vehicle R&M

Vehicles

Vending/Concession

Wall Coverings

Warehouse Supplies

Waste Removal

Water Features R&M

Web Services

Window Cleaning

Window Coverings

CSI- Communications

CSI- Concrete

CSI- Conveying Equipment

CSI- Earthwork

CSI- Electrical

CSI- Electrical Power Generation

CSI- Electronic Safety & Security

CSI- Equipment

CSI- Existing Conditions

CSI- Exterior Improvements

CSI- Finishes

CSI- Fire Suppression

CSI- Furnishings

CSI- General Requirements

CSI- HVAC

CSI- Industry Specific Mfg. Equipment

CSI- Integrated Automation

CSI- Masonry

CSI- Material Processing & Handling Equip.

CSI- Metals

CSI- Openings

CSI- Plumbing

CSI- Pollution Control Equipment

CSI- Process Gas & Liquid Handling, Purification & Storage Equip.

CSI- Process Heating, Cooling, Drying Equip.

CSI- Process Integration

CSI- Special Construction

CSI- Specialties

CSI- Thermal & Moisture Protection

CSI- Transportation

CSI- Utilities

CSI- Waterway & Marine

CSI- Wood, Plastics, Composites

Procurement Policies

A solid financial standing
A proven track record
References
Competitive with quality & pricing
Timely price quotes
Consistent on-time deliveries

Vendor Registration

http://www.hollywoodcasinokansas.com/vendor.html

Follow us to receive bid opportunities via email

Need help registering, want to stay informed on Kansas Hollywood Casino opportunities, Need help obtaining certification or getting your paperwork in order?

Email us at: admin@ibsa-inc.org

Re: Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway Announcement

2010-12-17T12:26:00.001-06:00

To whom it may concern:

Penn National Gaming and the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/ Kansas City, Kansas would like to inform you that bid packages for the Operations portion of the Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway project will be going out beginning in mid-2011. In order to be informed about these opportunities you must be a registered vendor with Penn National Gaming. If you are interested in any of the upcoming opportunities please take a moment to visit Penn National Gaming's website and get registered!

http://www.hollywoodcasinokansas.com/vendor.html

Please refer any questions regarding registration or bid process to purchasing@pngaming.com

IBSA, Inc.

629 SE Quincy, Suite 102, Topeka, KS 66603-3921

(: 785.422.0761 (office) | ( 913.735.4272 (KC Metro) | *: admin@ibsa-inc.org

Internet http://www.ibsa-inc.org

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HIPAA Privacy Statement Email Confidentiality Statement: This message and accompanying documents are covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C. 2510-2521, and contain information intended for the specified individual(s) only. This information is confidential. If you are not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, copying, or the taking of any action based on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by E-mail, and delete the original message.

SBA Announces Two New Programs to Boost Lending to Underserved Markets

2010-12-15T12:39:00.001-06:00

SBA Announces New Initiatives Aimed at Increasing Lending in Underserved Communities

Mills names Hughes to chair new council to advise agency on
expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs in underserved communities

**************

SBA Press Office
EST, Dec. 15, 2010
Contact: David J. Hall (202) 205-6697
**************

WASHINGTON – With small business owners and entrepreneurs in traditionally underserved communities continuing to face challenges accessing capital, the U.S. Small Business Administration today announced two new initiatives aimed at increasing SBA-backed loans to small businesses in these markets.

SBA Administrator Karen Mills also today named Catherine L. Hughes, chairperson and founder of Radio One, Inc., and a former SBA borrower, to chair the agency's new Advisory Council on Underserved Communities.

SBA and U.S. Department of Commerce studies have shown the importance of lower-dollar loans to small business formation and growth in underserved communities. With that in mind, the two new loan initiatives – Small Loan Advantage and Community Advantage – are aimed at increasing the number of lower-dollar SBA 7(a) loans going to small businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved communities. The agency's most popular loan product, 7(a) government-guaranteed loans can be used for variety of general business purposes, including working capital and purchases of equipment and real estate.

In conjunction with the implementation of these two new Advantage loan initiatives by March 15, the agency will end its existing Community Express pilot loan program on April 30.

"Over the last two years, we've seen lending to all small businesses tighten up, and that tightening has been even greater in traditionally underserved communities, including among minorities, women and in rural areas," SBA Administrator Karen Mills said. "These new Advantage initiatives are aimed directly at getting more loans into these markets so these small business owners can get the capital they need to start or grow their business and create good paying jobs in local communities across the country."

Built on what the agency refers to as its "Advantage" platform, both Small Loan Advantage and Community Advantage will offer a streamlined application process for SBA-guaranteed 7(a) loans up to $250,000. These loans will come with the regular 7(a) government guarantee, 85 percent for loans up to $150,000 and 75 percent for those greater than $150,000.

Small Loan Advantage will be available to the 630 financial institutions across the country in the agency's Preferred Lender Program (PLP). Under PLP, which includes most of the agency's highest volume lenders, SBA delegates the final credit decisions to lenders.

With Community Advantage, the agency will expand the points of access small business owners have for getting loans by opening SBA's 7(a) loan program to "mission-focused" financial institutions, including Community Development Financial Institutions, Certified Development Companies and non-profit microlending intermediaries. Community Advantage will leverage the experience these institutions already have in lending to minority, women-owned and start-up companies in economically challenged markets, along with their management and technical assistance expertise, to help make their borrowers successful.

"These two new loan initiatives tackle a couple of factors we know exist when it comes to the challenges small business owners face," Mills said. "First, to add more incentive for lower-dollar loans in these communities, we are providing a streamlined process for lenders along with the regular 7(a) government guarantee. Second, we are taking steps that will increase the number of places small business owners in underserved communities can go to get loans. And also, with Community Advantage, we are making sure that the additional assistance some borrowers may need through counseling and technical assistance will be available."

Mills added that the new loan initiatives are in line with the agency's core mission of supporting small business growth and job creation, and goals of the new Advisory Council on Underserved Communities, announced today. The Council will provide input, advice and recommendations on how SBA through its programs can help strengthen competiveness and sustainability for small businesses in underserved communities.

"Many entrepreneurs and small business owners across the country have enormous potential to drive economic growth and create good-paying jobs in their local communities, but too often they face barriers in fulfilling that potential," said Hughes, who will chair the council. "I'm excited to be a part of this effort to strengthen the link between these entrepreneurs and the SBA's wide variety of resources. SBA assistance played a critical role in my success, and I'm eager to do all I can to help make sure others have access to these same opportunities."

The agency's new Advisory Council on Underserved Communities will consist of 20 members from across the country. Over the next few weeks, the SBA will accept nominations for members to serve on the CUC. Members will provide a critical link between SBA and small businesses in traditionally underserved communities. It is anticipated that members will reflect a variety of key sectors, including business owners, banking and finance, community development, nonprofit and academia. Member nominations can be emailed to underservedcouncil@sba.gov.

A Nebraska native, Hughes began a career in radio in 1969 at KOWH, a small black-owned radio station in Omaha. She came to Washington, D.C., as a lecturer at Howard University's School of Communications, and worked at several local radio stations before she and then her husband purchased a small D.C. station and turned it into Radio One. Later, Hughes bought out her husband and became sole owner, at one point moving into the station to make ends meet. Today, Radio One owns 52 radio stations in major markets across the country, making the company the largest black-owned radio chain in the nation. In January of 2004, Hughes launched TV One, a cable television channel targeted at the African American community.

Expo for DBEs to attend KC - Power Generation for Small Businesses

2010-12-15T11:50:00.000-06:00

12th Annual U.S. Department of Energy Small Business Conference & Expo

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, is

proud to present The 12th Annual DOE Small Business Conference & Expo, at the Kansas City

Convention Center, Kansas City, Missouri, on May 10-12, 2011.

The event will feature plenaries, educational workshops, an Exhibit Hall with 200+ exhibitors &

sponsors, as well as matchmaking sessions. Over 1,600 attendees will represent all levels of federal,

state, and local government agencies, large/prime contractors, small businesses and more!

The largest civilian contracting agency within the Federal government, DOE spent over $25 billion

incontracts in FY 2010. The 12th Annual DOE Small Business Conference & Expo is a great opportunity

for Small Business owners and large companies alike to network and partner.

Registration for the event will open December 2010.

For more information check the event web site, or email us at: InfoDOE@aetherquest.com

http://oa.mo.gov/oeo/pdf-files/saveTheDate.pdf

Sheila N. Williams, DBE Program Mgr
City of Kansas City - Aviation Dept.
601 Brasilia Ave
Kansas City, MO 64153
Voice: 816-243-3108
Fax: 816-243-3207

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SBA Renews Patriot Express Loan Initiative for Three More Years

2010-12-10T21:04:00.001-06:00

Popular SBA Patriot Express Loan Initiative Renewed for Three More Years Effort focuses on Increasing Opportunities for Vets and Military Community *************** SBA News Release Release Date: December 10, 2010 Contact: Dennis Byrne (202) 205-6567 Release Number: 10-70 Internet Address:http://www.sba.gov/newsWASHINGTON – A very popular initiative that in just three-and-a-half years has provided more than $560 million in loan guarantees to nearly 7,000 veterans to start or expand their small businesses is being renewed for three more years, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Patriot Express, a streamlined pilot loan product based on the agency's SBA Express program, offers an enhanced guaranty and interest rate on loans to small businesses owned by veterans, reservists and their spouses. Over the past two years, due in part to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, loan volume increased dramatically. "America's veterans have the leadership skills and experience to become successful entrepreneurs and small business owners," said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. "The impact of this program over the last three-and-a-half years has meant thousands of veterans and their families have had the resources to pursue their dreams as entrepreneurs, and at the same time create jobs and drive economic growth at a critical time for our country. Renewing it means we can continue to fulfill our sacred commitment to the men and women who serve our country by giving them every opportunity for success." Patriot Express was launched June 28, 2007, to expand upon the more than $1 billion in loans SBA guarantees annually for veteran-owned businesses across all its loan programs. SBA also offers counseling assistance and procurement support each year to more than 200,000 veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists and members of the National Guard and their spouses. Patriot Express loans are offered by SBA's network of participating lenders nationwide and feature one of SBA's fastest turnaround times for loan approvals. Patriot Express loans are available for up to $500,000. The Patriot Express loan can be used for most business purposes, including start-up, expansion, equipment purchases, working capital, inventory or business-occupied real-estate purchases. Local SBA district offices can provide lists of Patriot Express lenders in their areas. Details on the initiative can be found at www.sba.gov/patriotexpress. To learn more about additional opportunities for veterans available through the SBA, please visit the website at www.sba.gov/vets. # # #

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SBA's New Rule Expands Access to Federal Contracting Opportunities for Women-Owned Small Businesses

2010-12-02T17:10:00.001-06:00

On October 7, 2010, the U.S. Small Business Administration published a final rule effective February 4, 2011, aimed at expanding federal contracting opportunities for women-owned small businesses (WOSBs).

The rule is part of the Obama Administration's overall commitment to expanding opportunities for small businesses to compete for federal contracts, in particular those owned by women, socially and economically disadvantaged persons and veterans. This rule identifies 83 industries in which WOSBs are under-represented or substantially under-represented in the federal contract marketplace. In addition to opening up more opportunities for WOSBs, the rule is also another tool to help achieve the statutory goal that 5 percent of federal contracting dollars go to women-owned small businesses.

With implementation expected to take several months, the agency expects that federal agencies' contracting officers will be able to start making contracts available to WOSBs under the program in early 2011. To learn more, visit SBA Releases Final Women-Owned Small Business Rule to Expand Access to Federal Contracting Opportunities:

http://www.sba.gov/idc/groups/public/documents/sba_homepage/news_release_10-55.pdf?utm_source=SourceLink&utm_campaign=791574e7f6-KCSL_DEC_Nwslter12_2_2010&utm_medium=email

Vendor Outreach Workshop for Women Owned Small Businesses in the National Capitol Region & Other GOOD INFO for any small business re: Gov't contracting OPPS Dept. of Interior

2010-11-22T12:24:00.000-06:00

[Federal Register: November 22, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 224)]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Office of the Secretary

Vendor Outreach Workshop for Women Owned Small Businesses in the
National Capitol Region of the United States

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Interior.

ACTION: Notice.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization of
the Department of the Interior is hosting a Vendor Outreach Workshop
for women owned small businesses in the National Capitol region of the
United States that are interested in doing business with the
Department. This outreach workshop will review market contracting
opportunities for the attendees. Business owners will be able to share
their individual perspectives with Contracting Officers, Program
Managers and Small Business Specialists from the Department.

DATES: The workshop will be held on January 21, 2011, from 8:30 a.m. to
1:30 p.m.

ADDRESSES: The workshop will be held at the U.S. Department of the
Interior Main Auditorium, 1849 C Street, NW., Washington, DC 20240.
Register online at: http://www.doi.gov/osdbu.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mark Oliver, Director, Office of Small
and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, 1951 Constitution Ave., NW.,
MS-320

[[Page 71138]]

SIB, Washington, DC 20240, telephone 1-877-375-9927 (Toll-Free).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In accordance with the Small Business Act,
as amended by Public Law 95-507, the Department has the responsibility
to promote the use of small and small disadvantaged business for its
acquisition of goods and services. The Department is proud of its
accomplishments in meeting its business goals for small, small
disadvantaged, 8(a), woman-owned, HUBZone, and service-disabled
veteran-owned businesses. In Fiscal Year 2010, the Department awarded
50 per cent of its $2.6 billion in contracts to small businesses.
This fiscal year, the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business
Utilization is reaching out to our internal stakeholders and the
Department's small business community by conducting several vendor
outreach workshops. The Department's presenters will focus on
contracting and subcontracting opportunities and how small businesses
can better market services and products. Over 3,000 small businesses
have been targeted for this event. If you are a small business
interested in working with the Department, we urge you to register
online at: http://www.doi.gov/osdbu and attend the workshop.
These outreach events are a new and exciting opportunity for the
Department's bureaus and offices to improve their support for small
business. Additional scheduled events are posted on the Office of Small
and Disadvantaged Business Utilization Web site at http://www.doi.gov/
osdbu.

Mark Oliver,
Director, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization.
[FR Doc. 2010-29369 Filed 11-19-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4210-RK-P

National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility GMP #2 - Invitation to Information Session

2010-11-16T15:43:00.000-06:00

-----Original Message-----
From: "McCarthy Mortenson" [pdiekamp@mccarthy.com]
Date: 11/12/2010 04:16 PM
Subject: National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility GMP #2 - Invitation to Information Session

If this link does not work, please go to https://secure.smartbidnet.com/ and log in with:
Username: ibsa@myway.com and Password: IY2OW39U

You are being invited by
		From: Paulita Diekamp Phone: (314) 919-2210 Fax: (314) 968-0032
Click here to learn more about our plan room service

ATTN: Lazone Grays (or Estimating Department) Company Name: IBSA, Inc. (Topeka, KS) Address: 629 SE Quincy Suite 102 Topeka, KS - 66603-3921		Fax: Phone: (785) 232-4272 Trade Codes: 01 01 01

INVITATION TO INFORMATION SESSION

	Title: National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility GMP #2		Location: - Manhattan, KS

Contact:
Dan Oneal

Phone:
(314) 919-2322

Fax:
(314) 968-0032

Architect:
NDP

Owner:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Bid Project Status:
Upcoming

Project Description:

NATIONAL BIO and AGRO DEFENSE FACILITY (NBAF)
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
MANHATTAN, KANSAS

GMP #2 - Central Utility Plant (CUP)

McCarthy/Mortenson NBAF Joint Venture (McM) has formed to build the National Bio and Agro Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, KS for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

NBAF will be a state-of-the-art biocontainment facility for the study of foreign animal, emerging, and zoonotic (transmitted from animals to humans) diseases that threaten U.S. animal agriculture and public health.

You are cordially invited to attend a Subcontractor and Supplier Information Session to learn about the project. Please see attached invitation or visit www.mcmjv.com for details.

We encourage you to begin the pre-qualification process. Attached are instructions to pre-qualify. This information is also available at www.mcmjv.com.

If you do not want to receive further communications about this project, click on 'unsubscribe' below.

PLEASE LOGIN USING THE INFORMATION ABOVE TO ACCEPT/DECLINE THE INVITATION.

Click to receive bid notifications by email

KCATA / Unified Government TIGER Transportation Grant

2010-11-16T15:41:00.000-06:00

-----Original Message-----
From: purchase@wycokck.org
Date: 11/16/2010 09:49 AM
CC: contractcompliance@wycokck.org
Subject: KCATA / Unified Government TIGER Transportation Grant

Good afternoon,

The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and the Unified Government of Wyandotte County / Kansas City, KS (UG) are seeking a qualified Architectural and Engineering (A/E) firm or team to design and prepare construction documents for the State Avenue Transit Improvement Corridor project funded by the federal TIGER grant program. A team made up of representatives of KCATA and UG will oversee design and construction of this project.

The selected A/E firm's project staff must include professionals who have demonstrated qualifications and experience in the specific engineering, architectural and transit planning areas identified in the RFQ.

This RFQ/P will be posted to KCATA's web site at kcata.org under Business Opportunities; Proposal and Proposal Opportunities, reference RFQ 10-7059-39.

Please do not reply to this communication. This email is being sent per your registration in the Unified Government Supplier Database. All interested A/E firms and construction subcontractors may refer to the instructions located on the KCATA site. Thank you.

Click to receive bid notifications by email

GREEN JOBS TRAINING (in the field of energy efficiency) - UPCOMING CLASSES: Kansas City

2010-11-03T17:58:00.000-05:00

KNOW ANYONE INTERESTED IN GREEN JOBS TRAINING IN THE FIELD OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY? (WEATHERIZATION AND ENERGY AUDITING)

IF SO, PLEASE PASS THIS EMAIL ON TO THEM, THANKS -- WE APPRECIATE YOU HELPING US GET THE WORD OUT!!

PLEASE CHECK THE WEBSITE OFTEN FOR UPDATES, PRICES AND MORE COMPLETE CLASS INFORMATION -- OR TO REGISTER/PAY TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT IN CLASS!

http://eetckc.com/course_catalog
UPCOMING CLASSES:

Please check out our website for a full list of classes with detailed descriptions (prices/times) OR to REGISTER/PAY:
www.EETCKC.com

REM for HUG and Efficiency Kansas
November 6 and 8 (Saturday day & Monday eve): Learn the skills to enter building data, utility information, create libraries, and do an Improvement Analysis. You will also learn how to convert the Improvement Analysis Report to a work order, a scope of work, and an Energy Conservation Plan. This course will be a full Saturday and a Monday evening for those of us that can't take off work. Completion of this course is worth 7.5 BPI CEU credits

EETC Energy Auditor Certification training
November 8-12 (Mon-Fri): (This class/certification is given in partnership with the Metropolitan Energy Center). Qualifies auditors for states of Kansas and Missouri.

Supplemental CAZ/Furnace training
Nov 11:(for auditors with RESNET/HERS certification who wish to perform Efficiency Kansas audits and audits for Missouri programs --Completion of this course is worth 2.75 BPI CEU credits

Supplemental REM training
Nov 9-10-12: (for BPI certified who wish to upgrade to EETC Energy Auditor Certification) Building information entry, utilities, libraries, improvement analysis, homework building entry, improvement analysis, and scope writing necessary for incentive programs. Completion of this course is worth 7.5 BPI CEU credits

Efficiency Kansas Requirements Supplemental Training Prerequisite: BPI Building Analyst or EETC Energy Auditor CertificationThis class will review the following requirements for the Efficiency Kansas Program:: REM improvement analysis and how to incorporate that into a project scope of work required for the Energy Conservation Plan - Additional combustion appliance testing required - Checklist and submittal package and procedures

AND ... GET READY FOR GOLD STAR AND THE NEW PACE & ENERGIZE MISSOURI PROGRAMS IN MISSOURI:

BPI Building Analyst Certification training

November 8-12:The BPI (Building Performance Institute) Building Analyst certification is a nationally recognized standard for contractors in weatherization and home energy analysis. This training provides a thorough understanding of Building Science, including weatherization materials and techniques, as well as health, safety and air quality testing in homes. 4 days of classroom and field training, followed by BPI certification exams on the 5th day.
(BPI certification testing alone is also available, for more information, call Linda at 913-787-1724

BPI Envelope Specialist Certification training
Prerequisite: BPI Building Analyst Certification Training
BPI Envelope Specialist furthers the Building Analyst's knowledge of the building thermal boundary and it's relation to building sciences and energy use. You will learn about the different components of the building shell including: Insulation types, uses, and advantages and disadvantages - Air and moisture barriers - Attic walls and vault ceilings. You will also learn advanced techniques in building diagnostics including: Zonal pressure differentials, Blower door, duct blaster, and pressure pan diagnostics, and Additional CAZ and equipment inspections. Completion of this course is worth 7.5 BPI CEU credits Completion of this course is worth 8.5 BPI CEU credits

OSHA 10-Hour Training for Construction
Nov 17-18 (Wed-Thurs): This is a great basic Safety and Health course for anyone in the construction and weatherization trades, (including Home Energy Auditors) -- and satisfies the OSHA portion of the requirements to bid/work in the KCMO low income weatherization program, (and many other state and local programs). Completion of course results in: OSHA 10 CARD for Construction Safety and Health

Lead for Renovators
Nov 19 (Friday): (This certification is required by EPA for all weatherization and construction contractors). This hands-on one-day class is fast-paced and receives very high reviews! Completion of this course is worth 4.5 BPI CEU credits

(Please check out our website for a full list of classes, prices, detailed descriptions and to REGISTER: www.EETCKC.com )

Questions? Please call 913-371-8800 or visit the website for more information

energytrainingcenter@gmail.com

USAspending.gov - Sign-up for updates

2010-11-03T17:52:00.001-05:00

USAspending.gov has the capability to inform you of new updates, information, etc.

To sign up for these updates, please go to http://www.USAspending.gov, enter your email under the 'What's new' section and click on 'Sign Up'.

Additionally, to view documentation regarding the new sub-award requirements (to report sub-contract, sub-grant and executive compensation per the Transparency Act) the following links contain additional information:

1. http://www.USAspending.gov/sub-award-documents

2. http://www.USAspending.gov/learn?tab=FAQ.

Taking Supplier Diversity to the Next Level

2010-11-03T12:31:00.000-05:00

Best Practice No. 1: Have Top-Down Commitment

Key to supplier-diversity success is unwavering leadership commitment. Among The DiversityInc Top 10 Companies for Supplier Diversity, all:

Have CEOs who personally sign off on supplier-diversity goals and metrics, compared with 86 percent of the DiversityInc Top 50 companies
Audit their supplier-diversity numbers
Mandate that supplier-diversity metrics be included in every request for proposal (RFP)

These leaders also spend an average of 13 percent of their Tier I (direct contractor) spend with minority-owned business enterprises (MBEs) and 11 percent with women-owned business enterprises (WBEs).

http://www.diversityinc.com/article/7988/Taking-Supplier-Diversity-to-the-Next-Level/

Bid Opportunities

Contracting News & Updates

STEPS TO SUCCESS - - - in case you missed the Workshop during Med Week 2010

2010-10-11T18:02:00.001-05:00

Sheila N. Williams, DBE Program Mgr
City of Kansas City - Aviation Dept.
601 Brasilia Ave
Kansas City, MO 64153
Voice: 816-243-3108
Fax: 816-243-3207

MED WEEK - Buyer/Supplier Forum Wrap Up Notes

1. Stay focused
2. Don't look at your business as a minority business but simply as a business. The differentiator is not diversity but how your business fits into the company. The fact that you are an MBE is the cherry on top.
3. Be competitive in pricing
4. Use the mirror method. Are you professional? Is your team professional….they represent your business.
5. Bump Ideas off other business owners
6. Have a Strategic Business Plan and revisit it periodically
7. Reinvest
8. Take continuing education classes
9. Grow your customer base-diversify not only geographically but your products & services
10. Come to the table with ideas on how your business can help the corporate client.
11. Know how to properly decline an RFP.
12. Use a scorecard. This is a tool that is another mechanism to evaluate your success & your improvements for both the corporation and business owner.
13. Have open communication! You must keep the project manager abreast on any changes, delay etc.
14. Do your homework about companies you want to do business with.
15. Find a mentorship program. What areas do you need assistance in? Scalability? Growth?

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SBA Implements Larger Loan limits Established Under Jobs Bill

2010-10-08T12:03:00.001-05:00

Sheila N. Williams, DBE Program Mgr
City of Kansas City - Aviation Dept.
601 Brasilia Ave
Kansas City, MO 64153
Voice: 816-243-3108
Fax: 816-243-3207

Please respond to
SBA Press Office <press_office@SBA.GOV>

SBA Implements Higher Maximum Loan Sizes Made Possible by Small Business Jobs Act ************ News Release SBA PRESS OFFICE ************ Release Date: October 8, 2010 Contact: Mike Stamler (202) 205-6919 Release Number: 10-59 Internet Address:http://www.sba.gov/news************ WASHINGTON – On the heels of completing final approvals of loans to nearly 2,000 firms that has been in its loan queue waiting for final approval of the Small Business Jobs Act, the U.S. Small Business Administration has finished implementation of another major element of the bill: increasing maximum sizes in several of its loan programs. The changes – effective today – are permanent for general small business loans under SBA's 7(a) guaranteed loan program, fixed asset loans through the 504 Certified Development Company program, Microloans, and International Trade, Export Working Capital and Export Express loans. A temporary increase for SBA Express loans is good for one year. "Across the country, there are small businesses owners who are in a position to take that next step to grow and create jobs, and these larger loan sizes provide another tool to help them do just that," SBA Administrator Karen Mills said. "Whether they're in the start-up phase and could use a microloan or are looking to take advantage of lower real estate prices and interest rates to buy a new building to expand, SBA loans can now be an even greater resource to help entrepreneurs and small business owners get the capital they need. "Additionally, temporarily increasing the cap on SBA Express loans from $350,000 to $1 million will allow more small businesses to take advantage of the streamlined approval process for working lines of credit and other capital they need," Mills said. Under the Jobs Act provisions, SBA has permanently increased 7(a) and 504 limits from $2 million to $5 million, and for manufacturers and certain energy- related projects seeking 504 loans, to $5.5 million. The maximum for International Trade and Export Working Capital loans also has been increased from $2 million to $5 million. SBA also permanently increased microloan limits from $35,000 to $50,000, helping larger entrepreneurs with start-up costs and small business owners in underserved communities. It also raised the limit on Export Express loans, from $250,000 to $500,000, and made the program permanent. SBA Express loan limits have been temporarily raised from $350,000 to $1 million for one year. These loans offer a streamlined application process with reduced paperwork and approval often in a matter of days. Unlike traditional 7(a) loans, SBA Express loans carry a 50 percent guarantee and can be used as revolving lines of credit – to help restock inventories and support larger revenue sales – which are particularly critical for small businesses as they emerge out of the recession. SBA's own trends show increasing demand for larger loans. The percentage of lending volume for guaranteed loans greater than $1.5 million has grown, from 13 percent of total dollars approved in fiscal year 2005 to 21 percent in fiscal year 2010, with many loans actually at the $2 million maximum. In the 504 program, the percentage of loan volume committed to loans greater than $1.5 million also has grown, from 15 percent of total dollars approved in fiscal year 2005 to 25 percent in fiscal year 2010. SBA has already put in place the alternate size standard that expands eligibility for SBA-backed loans that was included in the Jobs Act, increasing the alternate size standard to include those small businesses with less than $15 million in net worth and $5 million in average net income. Additionally, Administrator Mills announced on Tuesday that all loan applications placed in the SBA's loan queue by small business borrowers had received final approval, amounting to 1,939 loans for nearly $970 million. The loans were able to make use of loan guarantees up to 90 percent and reduced fees extended under the Jobs Act. Many of the loans had been in the queue waiting for the extension since May. The bill provided the agency with enough funding to support an estimated $14 billion in lending to small businesses with the extension of higher guarantees and reduced fees in the top two loan programs, first implemented as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The Jobs Act also includes additional resources to help increase lending to small businesses, including the State Small Business Credit Initiative announced today by the Department of Treasury that will support $15 billion in lending through local programs and the Small Business Lending Fund, which will provide capital to local, community banks to increase their lending to small businesses. Additionally, the new law contains $12 billion in tax credits targeted to small businesses, including higher deductions for investing in new machines and equipment, zero capital gains for those who buy and hold small business stocks for five years, and a doubling of the maximum deduction for startups to $10,000. It also allows self-employed Americans to completely deduct health insurance costs for themselves and their families. -- Join Me On Facebook: www.facebook.com/ibsainc US Small Business Directory Kansas Small Business Directory Oklahoma Small Business Directory

SBA Releases Final Women-Owned Small Business Rule to Expand Access to Federal Contracting Opportunities

2010-10-04T14:05:00.000-05:00

Sheila N. Williams, DBE Program Mgr
City of Kansas City - Aviation Dept.
601 Brasilia Ave
Kansas City, MO 64153
Voice: 816-243-3108
Fax: 816-243-3207

Please respond to
Mike Stamler <press_office@SBA.GOV>

*********************************************** U.S. Small Business Administration -- News Release -- *********************************************** Release Date: October 4, 2010 Contact: Hayley Matz (202) 205-6948 Release Number: 10-55 Internet Address:http://www.sba.gov/newsSBA Releases Final Women-Owned Small Business Rule to Expand Access to Federal Contracting Opportunities --- New program will be available in early 2011 for small, women-owned firms WASHINGTON – With the publication today of a final rule in the Federal Register, the U.S. Small Business Administration will begin implementation of its women-owned small business (WOSB) contracting program. The agency expects the program to be available for WOSBs in early 2011. The rule is part of the Obama Administration's overall commitment to expanding opportunities for small businesses to compete for federal contracts, in particular those owned by women, socially and economically disadvantaged persons and veterans. This rule identifies 83 industries in which WOSBs are under-represented or substantially under-represented in the federal contract marketplace. In addition to opening up more opportunities for WOSBs, the rule is also another tool to help achieve the statutory goal that 5 percent of federal contracting dollars go to women-owned small businesses. "Women-owned businesses are one of the fastest growing sectors of our nation's economy, and even during the economic downturn of the last few years, have been one of the key job creation engines in communities across the country," SBA Administrator Karen Mills said. "Federal contracts provide critical opportunities for owners of small firms to take their business to the next level and create good-paying jobs," Mills added. "Despite their growth and the fact that women lead some of the strongest and most innovative companies, women-owned firms continue to be under-represented in the federal contracting marketplace. This rule will be a platform for changing that by providing greater opportunities for women-owned small businesses to compete for and win federal contracts." With the publication today of the final rule, SBA, in conjunction with the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council, will begin a 120-day implementation of the WOSB contracting program, including building the technology and program infrastructure to support the certification process and ongoing oversight. With implementation expected to take several months, the agency expects that federal agencies' contracting officers will be able to start making contracts available to WOSBs under the program in early 2011. The creation of a rule to increase federal contracting opportunities for WOSBs was authorized by Congress in 2000. Since that time, SBA took a number of steps to study and analyze the market, including looking at participation by women-owned small businesses across all industries. Various draft rules were made available for public comment in prior years, but shortly after taking office the Obama Administration drafted a new, comprehensive rule, based on the analysis of the prior studies and on all the questions and comments previously received. The proposed rule was published for public comment on March 2, 2010 for 60 days. SBA received over 1,000 comments during that time. Some of the components of the Women-Owned Small Business rule include: • To be eligible, a firm must be 51 percent owned and controlled by one or more women, and primarily managed by one or more women. The women must be U.S. citizens. The firm must be "small" in its primary industry in accordance with SBA's size standards for that industry. In order for a WOSB to be deemed "economically disadvantaged," its owners must demonstrate economic disadvantage in accordance with the requirements set forth in the final rule. • Based upon the analysis in a study commissioned by the SBA from the Kauffman-RAND Foundation, the final rule identifies 83 industries (identified by "NAICS" codes) in which women-owned small businesses are under- represented or substantially under-represented in federal procurements. o The SBA has identified eligible industries based upon the combination of both the "share of contracting dollars" analysis, as well as the "share of number of contracts awarded" analysis used in the RAND study. This differs from an earlier proposed version of the rule which identified only four industries in which women-owned small businesses were under-represented. This earlier version proposed to identify eligible industries based solely on the "share of contracting dollars" analysis used in the RAND study. • In accordance with the statute, the final rule authorizes a set-aside of federal contracts for WOSBs where the anticipated contract price does not exceed $5 million in the case of manufacturing contracts and $3 million in the case of other contracts. Contracts with values in excess of these limits are not subject to set-aside under this program. • The final rule removes the requirement, set forth in a prior proposed version, that each federal agency certify that it had engaged in discrimination against women-owned small businesses in order for the program to apply to contracting by that agency. • The proposed rule allows women-owned small businesses to self- certify as "WOSBs" or to be certified by third-party certifiers, including government entities and private certification groups. o The final rule requires WOSBs which self-certify to submit a robust certification verification, to complete the certifications at the federal Online Representation and Certification Application ("ORCA") Web site, and also to submit a core set of eligibility-related documents to an online "document repository" to be maintained by the SBA. Each agency's contracting officers will have full access to this repository. o The SBA intends to engage in a significant number of program examinations to confirm eligibility of individual WOSBs. o In the event of a contract protest or program review, the SBA has the authority to request substantial additional documentation from the WOSB to establish eligibility. o SBA intends to pursue vigorously punitive action against ineligible firms which seek to take advantage of this program and in so doing to deny its benefits to the intended legitimate WOSBs. ###
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Invitation to Bid: Zeolyst International - Kansas City, KS Expansion VIII

2010-09-11T14:23:00.000-05:00

Zeolyst International - Kansas City, KS Expansion VIII
Calciner Building Foundations


Contact:	Steve Houser	Company:	Crossland Construction
PreBid Date:	09/15/2010 9:00 AM CST	Bid Date:	09/24/2010
PreBid Information:	A pre-bid meeting will be held at the plant on Thursday, September 15, 2010 at 9:00 A.M. cst. Mr John (Jacks) Flash at 864-497-1509 will be your contat at the plant. Contrators must attend the meeting or their bid will not be considered
Bid Information:	Crossland Construction Co Inc ATTN: Steve Houser 833 S East Ave Columbus , KS 66725 Phone: (620) 429-1414 Fax: (620) 429-1412 Email: shouser@crosslandconstruction.com Contractor bids due no later than September 24, 2010 and should be emailed to Jeff Epting, jeffrey.epting@pgcorp.com

Bid/Contracting Opportunities:

http://ibsacontracting.wordpress.com/

Invitation to Bid: Fort Leavenworth Building 427 Renovation

2010-09-09T17:14:00.000-05:00

Fort Leavenworth Building 427 Renovation

Renovations and Addition

Project Location:	Leavenworth, Kansas
Contact:	Noel Gardner	Company:	McTech Corp
PreBid Date:	Not Furnished	Bid Date:	09/17/2010 1:00 PM (CST)
PreBid Information:	There is no Pre Bid Meeting scheduled at this time.
Bid Information:	Mctech Corp. would like to announce its interest in accepting bids for the following project: Fort Leavenworth Historical Renovation of Building 427 at Leavenworth, Kansas in Leavenworth County, Kansas. Please fax all bids to 816-471-3751 by Friday, September 17, 2010 by 1:00 PM(CST). Please direct all scope related questions to Noel Gardner or Greg Wienberg: ngardner@mctechreadymix.com , gwienberg@mctechreadymix.com , or call 816-471-2039. Scope of Work: The work includes whole building renovations and modifications for adaptive re use as office space of Fort Leavenworth Building 427 (the historic Riverside Apartments), including upgrades necessary to meet requirements of current building codes, accessibility standards and LEED certification. Included in this scope of work will be the repair of adjacent gazebo and retaining wall. The scope will also include a new parking lot, new utilities, and incidental related work.

MBE to assist me in a financial audit for a large organization in California

2010-09-06T10:02:00.000-05:00

I need a MBE to assist me in a financial audit for a large organization in California. Please see information below.

Baker Tilly, LLP is looking for a MBE/WBE subcontractor to assist in an opportunity to provide services for annual financial auditing of financial statements and Perform Related Services. If you are interested in reviewing the proposal and potentially submitting a bid with Baker Tilly, please contact us not later than ...September 30, 2010. Bids are due to us no later than October 7, 2010. Please contact Najla Mamou at najla.mamou@bakertilly.com To learn more about our team at Baker Tilly, please visit http://www.bakertilly.com/Energy-Utilities.

Fort Leavenworth Renovation Building 427

2010-08-25T11:39:00.002-05:00

Fort Leavenworth Renovation Building 427
Renovations and Addition

	Project Location:	Leavenworth, Kansas
Contact:	William Bondurant	Company:	US Army Corp of Engineers
PreBid Date:	Not Furnished	Bid Date:	09/17/2010 1:00 PM
PreBid Information:	There is no Pre Bid Meeting scheduled at this time.
Bid Information:	The US Army Corps of Engineers in Kansas City, Missouri announces its interest in taking Bids for the following project: Fort Leavenworth Historical Renovation of Building 427 at Leavenworth, Kansas in Leavenworth County, Kansas. Sealed offers in original and 5 copies to perform the work required are due at USACE, Kansas City Federal Building PM E, Room 632, 601 E 12th Street Kansas City, MO. 64116-2896 by 1:00 PM local time on September 17, 2010. Offers will be publicly opened at that time. Sealed envelopes containing offers shall be marked to show the offerors name and address, the solicitation number, and the date and time offers are due. Any questions please contact William Bondurant at 816.389.2303

Bid/Contracting Opportunities:

http://ibsacontracting.blogspot.com/

Fort Leavenworth Renovation Building 467

2010-08-23T12:44:00.000-05:00

Fort Leavenworth Renovation Building 467
Buliding 467

Project Location:	Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
Contact:	David Slovikoski	Company:	JE Dunn Construction
PreBid Date:	Not Furnished	Bid Date:	09/16/2010 1:00 PM (CST)
Bid Information:	JE DUNN would like to announce its interest in accepting bids for the following project: Renovate Building 467 at Fort Leavenworth. All bids must be submitted by Thursday, September 16, 2010 by 1:00 PM (CST). Please fax your bids to 816-581-3344. For further questions or more information please call David Slovikoski at 816-292-8682.

Renovate Building 466 at Fort Leavenworth

2010-08-23T12:33:00.001-05:00

Fort Leavenworth Renovation Building 466
Building 466

	Project Location:	Fort Leavenworth, Kansas
Contact:	David Slovikoski	Company:	JE Dunn Construction
PreBid Date:	Not Furnished	Bid Date:	09/16/2010 1:00 PM (CST)
Bid Information:	JE DUNN would like to announce its interest in accepting bids for the following project: Renovate Building 466 at Fort Leavenworth. All bids must be submitted by Thursday, September 16, 2010 by 1:00 PM (CST). Please fax your bids to 816-581-3344. For further questions or more information please call David Slovikoski at 816-292-8682

Project Outreach Meeting - Zeolyst International

2010-08-20T10:15:00.000-05:00

Wyandotte Economic Development Council

Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City

Presents

Subcontractor - Professional Services

Community Outreach Program

September 1, 2010

2:00 - 3:00pm

Please RSVP to Chris May by Monday, August 30th

at 913-371-3198 or cmay@wycokck.org

Agenda:

Zeolyst International, Expansion VIII, and Design Team Introductions

Project Overview

Overall Schedule

Construction Bidding Opportunities, Bid Packages, and Notification

MBE/WBE/LBE: Goals and Prequalification

Communication and Contacts

Questions & Answers

Follow Us To Stay Infomred About Contracting Opportunities

First U.S. Global Construction Program for Minority-Owned Firms

2010-08-16T10:07:00.001-05:00

MBDA Unveils First U.S. Global Construction Program for Minority-Owned Firms

Program to provide minority-owned firms with education, mentoring and ability to compete for $1 billion in global construction procurement opportunities

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--U.S. Commerce Deputy Secretary Dennis Hightower, the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), the International Trade Administration (ITA), the Tutor Perini Corporation, and the University of Southern California's School of Policy, Planning and Development today announced the nation's first program created to globalize the U.S. minority-owned construction industry by providing education, mentoring and procurement opportunities to minority-owned firms. Firms that complete the program will have the opportunity to compete for a minimum of $1 billion in Tutor Perini contracts, primarily international contracts, over a four year period.

"By bringing Tutor Perini and USC into this program, we have created a new model for increasing the growth of minority-owned firms"

"This program could not be more relevant in today's economy, where global competition is tougher than ever before," said Hightower. "President Obama has set a goal of doubling exports over the next five years though his National Export Initiative and we need every stakeholder in America actively engaged in re-building our economy to create new jobs."

An unprecedented public-private program, spearheaded by the MBDA, the Global Construction Program will prepare 150 high capacity, minority-owned and operated general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers to compete for construction opportunities worldwide. Participating firms will receive training, education and mentoring, as well as a new, broader source of contracting opportunities. Tutor Perini Corporation is one of the nation's largest global construction conglomerates and a leader in supplier diversity within the construction industry.

"The Global Construction Program is designed to provide minority-owned firms with access to relationships, technical training, and skills to compete in the construction industry worldwide," MBDA National Director David A. Hinson said. "This is the first time in history that minority businesses will have access to global construction opportunities. Under the Obama administration we intend to support job growth by expanding export capability and by leveraging economic benefits of the minority business community - a community that adds $1 trillion in economic output to the nation. This program is the first of a series of programs designed to increase employment and capacity in the minority business sector."

"At the Tutor Perini Corporation, we pride ourselves on being a leader in diversity initiatives and truly believe this partnership will be a win-win for minority-owned construction firms and for us," said Richard Rizzo, Executive Vice President of the Tutor Perini Corporation. "For years we have developed a series of programs to foster the growth and success of minority-owned firms. This program provides the next level of support by helping these firms go global."

Included in the program are comprehensive quantitative and qualitative needs assessments, classroom training and distance learning, including: webinars and online self-study through USC; field and on-the-job training provided through Tutor Perini; and training on federal certifications that will allow participants to work on U.S. government-supported construction projects internationally.

"This partnership between USC, private business and the federal government will create thousands of new jobs within minority-owned construction companies by providing instruction, access and opportunity," said Tom Sayles, USC's vice president of government and community relations. "This program will create a path to compete for an estimated $1 billion in contracts all over the world in the next four years."

In addition, Next Level Diversity, LLC will provide the administration of this program, Ralph G. Moore & Associates will conduct the needs assessments and the International Trade Administration will provide training on its global services and the global construction industry.

The program is specifically tailored for minority general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. Federal sector global contracts traditionally have an entry point eluding to even the best minority-owned firms. The cost of the program is $10,000 for general contractors and $7,500 for subcontractors and suppliers. The first class is scheduled to begin Oct. 3, 2010.

To participate in the Global Construction Program, applicant firms must be:

Minority-owned (more than 50 percent) and operated, and certified as a minority enterprise or similar designation by NMSDC or have other recognized certifications, such as an SBA 8(a), program signed letter of enrollment, or a similar state-level minority enterprise certification;
Willing to complete a business needs assessment;
Operating an active construction or construction supply business and have been in this business for five years or more immediately preceding the submission of the application; and
Performing and/or have performed at least $5 million on a single project if a trade subcontractor, or performed at least $10 million on a single project if a general contractor.

There is significant growth in infrastructure projects globally – from building roads and airports to commercial and public buildings. Through this program, MBDA will further support the growth of minority-owned firms in the international construction arena.

"By bringing Tutor Perini and USC into this program, we have created a new model for increasing the growth of minority-owned firms," Hinson said.

To apply, minority-owned firms should send an e-mail to Prequalification@periniwest.com with Global Construction program in the subject line.

When e-mailing firms should include:

Company name
Contact name
Scope of Work (please include CSI code)
Telephone Number
Fax Number
Physical address
E-mail address
Website address

For more information, visit www.periniwest.com.

About the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)

The U.S. Commerce Department's Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) serves minority entrepreneurs across America who are building and growing businesses. For the last 40 years, MBDA has promoted the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned firms. These firms are then better equipped to create jobs, impact local economies and compete successfully in domestic and global marketplaces. With a nationwide network of nearly 50 business centers and strategic partners, MBDA assists minority entrepreneurs and business owners with consulting services, contract and financing opportunities, bonding and certification services, building business-to-business alliances and executive training.

Contacts

Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)
News Media Contact:
Lahne Mattas-Curry, 202-482-4690
lmattascurry@mbda.gov

Permalink: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20100810006298/en/MBDA-Unveils-U.S.-Global-Construction-Program-Minority-Owned

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Business Owners and Resource Providers

2010-07-12T16:31:00.001-05:00

Procurement & Contract

Compliance Department

M. Jason Banks, Contract Compliance Manager

July 9, 2010

Business Owners and Resource Providers,

The Contract Compliance Division is pleased to announce the kickoff of our Small Business Series. This is the first of a number of small business initiatives we will be implementing over the next several months in an effort to connect small businesses to resource providers in the area. The first session will be held August 4th and the remaining sessions will be held each Wednesday in the month of August. All sessions will be held here at City Hall. A flyer for the August 4th session will follow shortly. Find below the list of presenters and a program schedule.

Schedule

• August 4th

MidAmerica Minority Business Development Council (http://msdc.adaptone.com/mambdc/)

Wyandotte Economic Development Council (http://wyedc.org/)

• August 11th

KCMO Human Relations Department (http://www.kcmo.org/CKCMO/index.htm)

Kauffman Foundation (http://www.kauffman.org/)

• August 18th

Small Business Administration

(http://www.sba.gov/localresources/district/mo/kansas/index.html)

KC Source Link (http://www.kcsourcelink.com/)

• August 25th

JCCC/KCKCC Small Business Development Center

(http://www.jccc.edu/home/depts.php/1407)

Internal Revenue Service (www.irs.gov)

Program

• Opening Remarks 3:00- 3:10 (UG Commission Chambers, Lobby Level)

• Presentations 3:15-4:15 (1 group will remain in the Chambers and the other group will be dismissed to attend the other presentation)

• Closing Remarks / Adjourn 4:30 (There will be a brief opportunity to exchange business cards. We will have to be out of the Commission Chambers by 5:00)

Note:

There is no charge to attend. RSVP by email to contractcompliance@wycokck.org . Please indicate your company name, which August 4th session you will be attending, and how many total attendees your organization will have attending. Thank you and I look forward to seeing you during the month of August.

M. Jason Banks

Manager, Contract Compliance

Municipal Office Building

701 North 7th Street, 3rdh Floor

Kansas City, Kansas 66101-3064

Phone: (913) 573-5443

Fax: (913) 573-5405

Sent by: Kansas Small Business Directory

Registering your business with the State of Kansas

2010-06-18T09:07:00.001-05:00

The State of Kansas is implementing a new PeopleSoft 9.0 Financial Management System (nicknamed SMART) which will include up-to-date accounting and purchasing modules. You will see new websites from the Division of Purchases, new bid documents and other changes as well.

It will be very important for you to register your business to with the Division of Purchases, for the following reasons:

· To bid on events, registered bidders must be invited in SMART by the Procurement

Officer BEFORE the bid closes.

· If invited, registered bidders will be able to receive bid event documents via e-mail.

· If not invited by the Procurement Officer, registered bidders will receive notification of bid events based on their category code registration.

To register please go to the following website:

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MCJRCMX

If you have any questions about this effort, please call:

Janet Miller, Administrative Specialist

785-296-0002

Suzanne Meredith, Administrative Specialist

785-296-5419

Sent By: IBSA, Inc.

Entrepreneurial training, development and support services for construction/skilled trade ventures

2010-06-03T19:15:00.000-05:00

Small business training, development & support services in the Kansas City KS and Leavenworth Area - Construction/Skilled Trade

Starting July 1, 2010 IBSA will be accepting enrollment for those interested in startup or expanding a small business venture in areas of construction and skilled trades. Training includes preparing a feasibility plan, locating contracting opportunities in the area, identifying financing and partnering with large companies looking to diversify their contracting and procurement.

(Please check out www.kansasworks.com (under Resources>>Training Providers for program cost, detailed descriptions and to REGISTER speak with your Wyandotte or Leavenworth Workforce Center WIA representative)

*Entrepreneurial Training, Development, Support Services
(Emphasis on Construction and Skilled Trade Industry)
- Marketing Assistance
- Business/Feasibility Plan Development
- Time and Money Management
- Manual and Computerized Record-Keeping
- Access to other business Networks
- Presentation Development

Start or Expand Your Construction / Skilled Trade Business

Your construction business can gain a significant advantage over the competition by practicing sufficient management protocol. Learn how to build your company's business skills up to the same high level as your trade skills. This course gives you hands-on, practical management tools to help you design and construct a viable business operation that serves your customers better. It also shows you how to understand your entire operation and help improve the management process. You will see how to meet timelines and to also provide targeted project costs. As a contractor/owner will discover how each part of your efforts can affect and improve your total operations as well as how to put together a well-informed team. This course will provide you with clear and simple directions to give your contracting company the strongest possible business advantage and access to prime contractors that can give your business a chance to prove your abilities and business expertise.

Questions? Call us at 913-240-6247

IBSA is an approved training/service provider with the Kansas Department of Commerce; Kansas City and Leavenworth KS Workforce Centers.

Programs are under the federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA).

Wyandotte County Kansas City Kansas Website Enhancements

2010-05-03T19:47:00.001-05:00

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Banks, Jason <jbanks@wycokck.org>
Date: Thu, Apr 29, 2010 at 12:36 PM
Subject: Website Enhancements

Good Afternoon,

I am pleased to announce that the Contract Compliance Division has made a series of enhancements to our new e-Procurement site. Thank you to everyone for your patience during Phase 1 of the implementation. To date there have been approximately 50 new supplier registrations processed since the system implementation bringing the total # of approved suppliers to over 730.

Please continue to encourage your members to access the site to register as registered suppliers will receive notices of bid opportunities based on their registration info. We have also added a new section titled "Contract Compliance" at the bottom right of the home page. This section contains links to information on the Unified Government's Supplier Diversity Program, the Wizards Stadium and Casino projects, and upcoming events relevant to business owners.

Please take an opportunity to view the links and offer your feedback. If your agency has event flyers or links to upcoming events you would like to see posted, please forward them directly to me and we will attempt to get them posted in a timely manner. Over the next several weeks we will continue to make enhancements to this section and post additional information regarding the Contract Compliance Division. There are direct links below to take you to the eProcurement home page and the section related to supplier registration. Thanks again and contact me if you have any questions or comments.

eProcurement home page - https://purchasing.wycokck.org/eProcurement/Default.aspx

supplier registration information - https://purchasing.wycokck.org/eProcurement/Vendor_Registration.aspx

M. Jason Banks

Manager, Contract Compliance

Unified Government of WyCo / KCK

701 N. 7th St., Suite 318

Kansas City, Kansas 66101

Office: 913-573-5439

Fax: 913-573-5444

jbanks@wycokck.org

Women Owned Set-aside Program: SBA 8(m)

2010-04-05T11:56:00.001-05:00

The new Women Owned Small business preference Program (WOSB) is called the 8(m) program by the Small Business Administration (SBA) after the section number of the enabling legislation, just like the small disadvantaged business program is called the 8(a) program.

WOSBs should act now to be among the first wave of companies to qualify for the program. WOSBs can self certify as to their eligibility, but they must attest to meeting the qualifications requirements of the program and "deposit" with the government a set of corporate documents proving their eligibility. Contracting Officers must have access to the documents before a contract is awarded.

The first qualifiers will be in a particularly advantageous position for the following reasons:

Year after year federal agencies have been unable to meet their WOSB goals because WOSBs did not have a preference position in making contract awards like disadvantaged, veteran owned, and HUB Zone small businesses.

The Obama administration will highlight the significance of the new program for obvious political reasons, not to mention the fact that the Bush administration did everything in their power to scuttle the program.

Contacting Officers will be anxious to make up for past sins with the prodding of democratic political appointees. Why not do what the boss wants?

We anticipate that there will be flurry of WOSB contracting awards in the first year followed by a steadier state where the agencies meet their women-owned goals on a more regular basis.

Comments on the proposed rules for the new Women Owned Small Business Preference Program (WOSB) are due by May 3, 2010. The Small Business Administration (SBA) will probably publish final rules implementing the WOSB Program sometime in the fourth quarter of 2010.

http://www.fedmarket.com/articles/special-report.shtml

Contractors and Suppliers: Supplier Registration Available - Kansas City KS

2010-03-11T16:51:00.001-06:00

To: Contractors and Suppliers

From: Unified Government Purchasing Department

Subject: Supplier Registration Available

Good Afternoon,

The Unified Government E-Procurement site is available for use. The supplier registration section of the site may be accessed using one of the following methods:

(1) Go to our home page at www.wycokck.org and click the link titled Supplier Database in the center of the screen,

(2) You may access the link by navigating to the new Purchasing Department home page at www.wycokck.org, then click the Departments link on the banner and click Purchasing. You will see the Supplier Registration link under the "Learn How We Do Business" banner.

(3) You may access the supplier registration page directly at: https://purchasing.wycokck.org/eProcurement/Vendor_Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=Registration_Form.aspx

The following link is to information regarding the new supplier registration configuration: https://purchasing.wycokck.org/eProcurement/Vendor_Registration.aspx. Please read this page thoroughly as it explains the two types of registrations in this system. Users are also encouraged to access the Supplier Help link on the left, bottom of the screen and read the Supplier's Guide for additional information on how to use the system.

You are receiving this communication because you have an Approved supplier registration in our previous system. Your login information will be the email address that this communication is being sent to and if you have forgotten your password, there is a link on the page to have it sent to you.

Forums are being planned to further educate the public on this new system. Thank you all for your patience and we hope you enjoy the new site.

Wichita Eagle Article RE: Minority firms seek county work

2010-03-04T16:00:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Posted on Wed, Mar. 03, 2010

Minority firms seek county work

BY DEB GRUVER
The Wichita Eagle

A group that represents African-American construction businesses wants Sedgwick County to create a program to ensure that they get a piece of county work.

United Builders and Contractors met with commissioners and county staff on Tuesday, urging leaders to create a disadvantaged-business development program similar to one being discussed in the Kansas Senate.

"We believe it is important that all segments of a community benefit from the expenditure of public dollars for goods and services," United Builders chairman Eugene Anderson said.

Anderson said United Builders had made two other formal presentations to commissioners but "to date nothing has happened. No plan has been brought forth to address the disparity in Sedgwick County's purchase of goods and services."

Of about $223 million in goods and serviced purchased by the county in 2008, 3.39 percent went to disadvantaged businesses, including those owned by African-Americans, Asians, Hispanics, American Indians, people with disabilities, veterans and women, according to information from purchasing director Iris Baker.

About $53,131 went to African-American businesses.

If you take Intrust Bank Arena out of the picture, about 5 percent of county goods and services went to disadvantaged-business owners as defined by the county.

Commissioner Gwen Welshimer said it was time for the county to do more business with minorities, women and other groups.

"I think it's just disgraceful this group would have to come to us" again, she said. "I think we should correct the problem."

Commissioner Tim Norton said he would follow Senate Bill 511 and asked staff to look into what other counties are doing.

County Manager William Buchanan noted that the county would be required to do a disparity study before implementing any "set-aside" programs for minority businesses.

Groups also have asked the city and school district for more business.

Reach Deb Gruver at 316-268-6400 or dgruver@wichitaeagle.com.

Government Stimulus Package Contracting Forum...

2010-01-16T06:27:00.001-06:00

News Release:

Government Stimulus Package Contracting Forum

Date: Thursday, February 11, 2010

Time: 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Where: Topeka/Shawnee County Public Library

1515 SW 10th Ave | Topeka, KS 66604

Room: Marvin Auditorium 101C

The aim of the forum is to share timely information regarding the many subcontracting opportunities that are currently being bidded out; as well as information on future contracting and procurement activities using funds from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Various local and state agencies, and public funded agencies will speak to their respective projects and developments that are planned, what their bidding requirements, qualifications and procedures are to bid on work, and interested small, minority and disadvantaged business owners in the construction or skilled-trade field can ask questions to help them make informed decisions.

Areas of Work Activity Under Stimulus Act Dollars

Weatherization projects / Energy-efficiency projects

Public funded residential renovation, remodeling & rehabilitation projects

Highway & Transportation projects

Other Construction & Skilled-Trade Opportunities

Agencies Invited Receiving Stimulus Funds

City of Topeka, Housing & Neighborhood Development*

Kansas Housing Corporation*

Kansas Corporation Commission*

Kansas Energy Office*

Topeka Housing Authority

Community Action, Inc.*

Kansas Dept. of Transportation

Unified School District 501

(confirmed*)

For more information contact: 785-422-0761 or email admin@ibsa-inc.org

Please share with other interested parties...

This event is being sponsored by IBSA, Inc., and supported by the East Topeka Community Development Corporation.

Free business listing, updates and insight from Google

2009-12-17T15:34:00.001-06:00

Help customers find you on Google, it's free.

Free listing
Local customers already search Google for the products and services you offer. Create a business listing to be sure they find you.
Free updates
Keep your address, phone number, hours of operation, and more up-to-date. Even create coupons and display photos and videos, all for free.
New! Free insights
Use the power of Google's data to learn where your customers come from and what they search for to find you.

www.google.com/local/add

SBA, Colleges Offer Biz Training for Vets

2009-12-04T00:06:00.001-06:00

***********************************************
U.S. Small Business Administration

-- News Release --

***********************************************
Release Date: November 10, 2009
Contact: Dennis Byrne (202) 205-6567
Release Number: 09-77
Internet Address:

http://www.sba.gov/news

SBA, Six Universities to Offer Business Training
For Iraq/Afghanistan Disabled Vets

SBA Adds New Training Tools to Increase Opportunities for Vets

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration today announced a
three-year agreement to expand and deliver entrepreneurship training for
service-disabled veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The agreement with SBA's Office of Veterans Business Development will
support the expansion of the year-long Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for
Veterans with Disabilities (EBV). The expansion of this innovative management
training and mentorship program will maximize small business programs for
veterans, service-disabled veterans, reserve-component members, and their
dependents or survivors.

Additionally, this week SBA launched a new online contracting tutorial on
www.sba.gov, as part of its ongoing efforts to expand services to veterans
and service-disabled veterans. Veterans and military spouses who own small
businesses can utilize this free online course to learn how to identify and take
advantage of federal contracting opportunities.

"At this important time, with veterans returning from foreign soil in increasing
numbers, we at the SBA are working to ensure they have the resources to
successfully start and run their small businesses. As a result of the leadership
skills they develop during their service, veterans over-index in entrepreneurial
activities," SBA Administrator Karen G. Mills said today. "Our commitment is to
honor that service by helping our nation's veterans – especially those who
return home with disabilities – fulfill the American Dream. Initiatives like the
Entrepreneurship Bootcamp and our online training courses give veteran
business owners the tools they need to grow, be competitive, and create
jobs."

Working with Syracuse University's Whitman School of Management, the
University of Connecticut School of Business, Mays Business School at Texas
A&M, UCLA Anderson School of Management, Florida State University's College
of Business, and the Krannert School of Management at Purdue University,
SBA's grant and other assistance will significantly expand the reach and impact
of the EBV initiative and help maximize economic opportunities for U.S.
veterans with disabilities.

The expansion of SBA's entrepreneurship training initiatives builds on SBA's
support for veterans through its Patriot Express loan program. In less than
two-and-a -half year's time, this pilot loan initiative has supported nearly $400
million in loans to more than 4,700 veterans and spouses looking to establish or
expand their small businesses. As a result of the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act, which raised loan guarantees to 90 percent and temporarily
eliminated fees, the number of Patriot Express loans increased by more than 20
percent this year over 2008. Local SBA district offices have a listing of Patriot
Express lenders in their areas. Details on the initiative can be found at
www.sba.gov/patriotexpress.

To learn more about additional opportunities for veterans available through the
SBA, please visit www.sba.gov.

Participate in Amtrak’s nationwide projects funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).

2009-11-17T14:33:00.001-06:00

Amtrak looking for primes and subs to help it meet its 25% SBE and 10% DBE goals on ARRA projects. Please forward to potential interested firms.

Jacobs Project Management Company (Jacobs) is seeking qualified design/build firms interested in participating in Amtrak's nationwide projects funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). Capital grants have been awarded to construct, renovate, repair and/or upgrade properties for Amtrak and other railroad owners throughout the United States.

In support of Small Business (SB) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE), Amtrak has set an ARRA goal to achieve via prime or subcontract opportunities, twenty-five percent with Small Businesses and ten percent with Disadvantaged Business Enterprises.

Design/Builders will be responsible for completing the design (currently at 30 percent) and to construct, renovate, repair and/or upgrade the facilities through turnover. All improvements must be completed by February 17, 2011.

SB and DBE firms with core competency and relevant design/build experience are invited to submit to Jacobs, the first of a two tier prequalification requirement consisting of, a brief statement of their capabilities in any of the following areas;
Mobility/ADA;
Facility;
Security and Life Safety;
Platform Lighting, (MA and RI only);
Fall Protection; or,
Track Work.

If interested, submit a brief prequalification capability statement, including contact information, and interest as a prime or subcontractor, not to exceed 5 Megabytes, via USPS or e-mail to:

Ms. Dorothy Thom
Program Support Manager
Jacobs Project Management Co.
Three Tower Bridge
Two Ash Street
Conshohocken, PA 19428
dorothy.thom@jacobs.com

Based on this information, Jacobs will determine which firms will be included in the 2nd tier prequalification. If your company is selected, Jacobs will send you prerequisite forms for completion. Jacobs will then determine, based on the prequalification information, which firms will be invited to propose on these projects, some of which may be designated as a Small Business Set-Aside opportunity. Please note that if awarded, the Design/Builder will be required to enroll into the Jacobs Contractor Controlled Insurance Program (CCIP).

Statements of capability from firms interested in Subcontract opportunities only will be provided to prime contractor proposors for their consideration.

For more information on specific project opportunities, please visit Amtrak's web site at http://procurement.amtrak.com => "SB/DBE" tab.

Inclusive Business Initiative

2009-09-08T19:48:00.000-05:00

Inclusive Business Initiative E-Newsletter, September 8, 2009

Updates: The Inclusive Business Initiative at the MBDA Summit

The Inclusive Business Initiative participated in the Minority Business Development Agency MBE Summit in July, making a presentation on minority business programs at the state and local government level. InBiz Director, Tim Lohrentz, joined a panel moderated by Benita Fortner of Raytheon Corp, with Glenn Delgado, Chair of the federal OSDBU Directors Council, talking about federal MBE procurement programs, and Steven Sims, V.P. of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, talking about corporate supplier diversity programs. Tim spoke about the need to replicate best practices across states, counties, and cities.

Inclusive Business Practices in new ABA Book on Community Economic Development

We are proud that Roger Clay, President of the Insight Center, recently co-edited a guidebook Building Healthy Communities: A Guide to Community Economic Development for Advocates, Lawyers and Policymakers, published by the American Bar Association. The 500-page book is full of useful, practical information, on topics ranging from "The Use of Tax-Exempt Bonds for Community Economic Development", "New Markets Tax Credits", and "Assets and Community" to "Inclusive Business Practices," written by InBiz Director Tim Lohrentz.

Insight Center Makes a Statement to US Senate on Small Business Access to Health Care

The Insight Center was one of 18 national organizations, through the Unity Group, to make a July 23 statement to the US Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship on the need for greater access to health insurance plans by small businesses. Signature gathering on the statement was led by the Minority Business Enterprise Legal Defense and Education Fund (MBELDEF). The statement read, in part:

"Access to health care and affordable health insurance plans is clearly a subject of great concern to all Americans. Health care costs are skyrocketing and comprehensive health insurance coverage is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. These are undeniably problems that cause genuine concern and stress to all Americans – especially those Americans who have no health insurance at all. But access to health care, and more specifically the availability of business health insurance plans to cover the employees of small businesses, is also a subject of great concern to minority and women businesses all across the nation."

■ Join the Insight Center's Public Supplier Diversity and M/WBE Programs group on linkedin to discuss governmental sector MWBE contracting and procurement programs.

■ Join the Inclusive Business Initiative on Facebook.

Federal Inclusive Business Updates

Obama Administration Commits to Ensuring M/WBE Contracting Opportunities

The Obama Administration on August 19 reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that minority-owned and small businesses, including women- and veteran-owned businesses, have greater access to federal government contracting opportunities:

"In order for the Federal Government to better meet or exceed the goal of 23 percent of prime contracts for small businesses, Vice President Biden and I have tasked Small Business Administrator Karen Mills and Commerce Secretary Gary Locke with leading a federal government-wide initiative to increase outreach," President Barack Obama said.

"In these tough economic times, the Recovery Act is providing billions of dollars in opportunity and incentives to help businesses grow - and the President and I are committed to ensuring that small and minority-owned businesses are part of our economic recovery every step of the way," said Vice President Joe Biden. "By taking advantage of the expertise of an array of companies, we are going to be able to build a stronger, more secure foundation for long-term economic growth."

Anecdotal evidence is needed for US Congress to Support DBE and M/WBE Programs

We all know that minority and women-owned businesses face discrimination in many contexts, including government contracting. Government contracting programs such as DBE and M/WBE programs can help reduce some of the effects of this discrimination. Let's help Congress and the public understand the importance of preserving these programs by sharing our own stories of business-related discrimination. If you or a business owner you know has experienced discrimination in bonding, zoning, insurance, financing, contracting, or procurement, please contact the Insight Center, inbiz@insightcced.org. We will ensure that a trained Unity Group interviewer will present your story to the US Congress, while protecting your confidentiality.

Monitoring the Recovery Act

The Insight Center is a partner in the FairRecovery.org website, which provides resources to communities of color to monitor the programs and spending of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). A new chart provides information on many state and local government M/WBE programs. The website also highlights best practice tracking of ARRA dollars by Maryland and Massachusetts. Maryland has also shared its MWBE procurement tracking system on ARRA funds with other states through the Insight Center's M/W/DBE state director network.

MBEs in ARRA Broadband Access Projects

The Recovery Act (ARRA) provides $7.2 billion to increase broadband access (BTOP) in urban (NTIA, Dep't of Commerce) and rural (RUS, USDA) communities. The Minority Media and Telecommunications Council (MMTC) encourages companies and municipalities filing applications for broadband deployment, computer center, adoption and mapping to consider minority-owned companies as subcontractors or partners. Please contact MMTC Executive Director, David Honig, at dhonig@crosslink.net if you know of any minority broadband contractors to add to the list. These companies offer goods and services that many broadband stimulus applicants need. They may be able to deliver a competitive advantage to BTOP (NTIA) and BIP (RUS) applicants under the SDB 8(a) provisions of ARRA. So far only 11 MBE firms from 8 states and D.C. are on MMTC's list, while BTOP funds are going to all 50 states, so if you are aware of any qualified firms in this industry, please help them get added to the list.

David Hinson Named Director of the MBDA

In July, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced the appointment of David Hinson, a St. Louis native with more than 20 years of business experience, as the new administrator of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA). This agency is the federal agency created specifically to foster the establishment and growth of minority-owned businesses in the US, through its network of 48 minority business centers throughout the country.

Since 2002, Hinson was President/CEO of Wealth Management Network, Inc., a multi-million dollar independent, financial advisory boutique.

"I'm honored to accept this position and am committed to carrying out Secretary Locke's priority of working with minority entrepreneurs who wish to grow their businesses and increase their capacity," Hinson said. "This work better positions these companies to create jobs, improve local economies and expand operations into national and global markets."

USDOT DBE Bonding Assistance Program

US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced, September 1, $20 million in recovery funds to create the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Bonding Assistance Program, an initiative that will help small and disadvantaged businesses better compete for work on transportation projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

Through this new program, which will be administered by the Department of Transportation's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU), small and disadvantaged businesses can apply to be reimbursed for bonding premiums and fees incurred when competing for, or performing on, transportation infrastructure projects funded by ARRA.

The bonding assistance provided by the DBE ARRA BAP will allow DBEs with traditionally less working capital than large transportation-related contractors to perform on transportation infrastructure projects receiving ARRA funding from any DOT mode of transportation. While it will not solve the problem of qualifying, it will certainly allow those that qualify to not be shut out of the running on account of the high cost of bonding. In addition, the assistance provided to the DBE to compete for, and execute contracts for ARRA projects, will position the DBE to compete for future transportation contracts at any tier from any Federal, state, or local transportation agency.

Updates on State M/WBE Programs

New Jersey Governor Corzine Signs EO to Include Minorities in the Recovery Effort

Governor Jon S. Corzine signed August 28 an Executive Order requiring the 109 state agencies, authorities, commission and colleges include underrepresented minorities in the recovery effort. Among other things, the executive order establishes goals for State agencies, authorities, colleges and universities and commissions to contract with minority and women-owned businesses consistent with recommendations made in two disparity studies done by the state. There are specific goals for various types of services and for MBE and WBE sub-groups.

In July 2008, Governor Corzine established, under the Department of Treasury, the Office of Supplier Diversity. The goal was to create a one-stop shopping designation where small, minority and women-owned businesses could receive training, mentoring and information on contracting opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

Florida Increases Certification Period to Two Years

Effective July 1, 2009, the State of Florida now has a uniform certification period of two years through the Office of Supplier Diversity. Previously, there was a two year certification period for service-disabled veteran business enterprises and a one year period for minority and women-owned business enterprises. The two year period should decrease the amount of paperwork required of M/WBEs.

"Equity of opportunity is not the enemy of efficiency...It is the promise of democratic governance."

- Ron Marlow
Assistant Secretary for Access & Opportunity
Commonwealth of Massachusetts

SBA Offers Online Course on Winning Federal Contracts

2009-09-01T19:22:00.001-05:00

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood Announces Recovery Assistance for Small and Disadvantaged Businesses

2009-09-01T19:16:00.001-05:00

Monday, August 31, 2009
Contact: Maureen Knightly
Tel: 202-366-4570

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood Announces Recovery Assistance for Small and Disadvantaged Businesses
DOT's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization to Create New Bond Fee Reimbursement Program

WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced $20 million in recovery funds to create the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Bonding Assistance Program, an initiative that will help small and disadvantaged businesses better compete for work on transportation projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

"The Obama Administration is committed to doing all it can to help DBE's realize the American dream and contribute to making our transportation systems even better," said Secretary LaHood. "These Recovery dollars will help level the playing field so these companies have the tools and resources they need to compete."

OSDBU was created as part of the Small Business Act (SBA) to ensure that small and disadvantaged businesses are provided the best opportunity to participate in the agency's contracting process. DOT's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program is intended to ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of DOT-assisted contracts in the Department's highway, transit, airport, and highway safety financial assistance programs. To be certified as a DBE, a firm must be a small business owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.

For additional information on the new DBE Bonding Assistance Program, including more details on the application process, please visit http://www.dot.gov/recovery/ost/osdbu/index.htm

###

Seven Must-Know Tips to Win More Business on Ariba Network Discovery

2009-08-27T22:29:00.000-05:00

By Jonathan Rosen, Senior Product Manager, Ariba Network Discovery

As the economy continues to create significant challenges for today's businesses, a growing number of companies are taking advantage of Ariba Network Discovery. Using this unique, cost-free resource is simple. Buying organizations post their purchasing projects online, and the solution then identifies and notifies registered suppliers about opportunities that match their business capabilities.

While it's clear that more buying organizations are using Ariba Network Discovery to find new suppliers, the question is: what separates the suppliers that receive a new business opportunity from those that don't? And what can suppliers do to make themselves stand out?

Customer Insight on Ways to Get Business: Give Me Your Details!
Chris Uriarte, the sourcing manager for Stage Stores, Inc., explains what his company looks for when seeking suppliers on Ariba Network Discovery—and what suppliers can do to improve their odds of being found and winning a contract.

Make sure your profile is complete and up to date. Since the results of customer searches are based on the profile data you provide, the more detail you include in your profile, the better your results will be. To effectively manage your profile, read "Will Buyers Find You? Make Sure They Do with Ariba Network Discovery."

List all commodity codes that apply to your business. Because Ariba Network Discovery works partly by matching your commodity codes (i.e., what you sell) to the opportunities posted by buying organizations, the codes you list are crucial to the response you get. Besides listing the parent commodity, you can expand your categories to match other areas that buying organizations may search. "It's fine to select multiple commodities," Chris points out. For example, a customer might be sourcing a chemical that's used in baking and as a pool supply, so you could include yourself in both those categories. The commodity chooser feature on Ariba Network Discovery makes this task quick and easy.

"Since the results of customer searches are based on the profile data you provide, the more detail you include in your profile, the better your results will be. "

Chris Uriarte, Sourcing Manager, Stage Stores

Communicate with potential customers online in real time. You can send questions, comments, and even suggestions about RFPs directly to buying organizations through Ariba Network Discovery, and they can respond to you directly as well. This is a great way to establish rapport with prospects and ensure that you understand project parameters. It also supports more open communication both before and during the bidding process, which can boost your chances of winning a contract.

Supply comprehensive, professional responses to buyer postings. "We look closely at the way vendors respond to our new business opportunity postings, since that offers valuable information about the kind of company we're dealing with," says Chris. "Are they really professional, or do they just upload a few documents and that's it? That sort of thing tells us what we can expect when doing business with them as well."

Provide detailed pricing information. Break down descriptions of your pricing on specific items and services and supply this information to prospects in an attachment. This makes it easier for them to accurately assess your pricing structure and prevent misunderstandings later on once the contract has been awarded.

Don't focus your response on price alone. "We don't just look for numbers, we look for quality also," says Chris. If your company offers exceptional service, satisfaction guarantees, or other advantages that provide extra value to customers, be sure to point this out—and how it makes working with you more cost-effective in the long run.

Supply solid references. Ariba Network Discovery includes a simple feature that makes it easy to obtain and post references from existing customers, which can greatly enhance your credibility. "It's important to us to check the references of vendors we're considering," notes Chris. "What they tell us definitely affects our decision."

How Do Buying Organizations Use Ariba Network Discovery to Find New Suppliers?
Because the solution dramatically reduces the effort and expense required for sourcing—from as long as six weeks to just a few days—more buying organizations are using it to:

Fill supply needs in new commodity areas recently brought under spend management
Meet vendor diversity requirements for specific contracts such as being a minority-owned, woman-owned, or small disadvantaged business
Discover new suppliers for rush projects that face stringent time constraints
Replace key vendors who have gone out of business due to economic pressures or other problems

So what does this mean for you as a supplier? Simply this: by using Ariba Network Discovery effectively, you can put your business first in line to capitalize on all these opportunities—increasing your chance to land new business in a wide range of areas.

Questions?
To learn more about Ariba Network Discovery or to sign up, go to discovery.ariba.com or call Liz Cuniak at 412.297.8739

Regional Recovery and Reemployment Report

2009-08-02T21:32:00.001-05:00

A lot to read, but very relevant to workforce training needs and funding opportunities to come.

###

"To reinforce the importance of reemployment services, the Employment and Training Administration just wrapped up a series of Regional Recovery and Reemployment Forumsthat were geared at providing timely and regionally-customized technical assistance to the system. The Forums were a follow-up to the ReemploymentWorks! Summit held January 27-29, 2009 in Baltimore.

All of the Regional Forums focused on immediate and effective implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and enhancing the effectiveness of system-wide Reemployment efforts. Green jobs and summer youth programs also received significant attention at all Forums.

The Regional Forum Final Report was developed to provide an overview for ETA leadership and to provide ETA regional and national office staff with "actionable" data and information that can be used to continue supporting the State and local area staff who are on the front lines of recovery and reemployment efforts."

Click here to access the Final Report

Employment & Training Opportunities in Kansas

2009-07-28T09:02:00.001-05:00

With the U.S. economy the way it is, the time has come for many to re-examine their career, educational knowledge-base and occupational outlook. Even before the economy went sour, the need to obtain or upgrade skills became paramount with the massive outsourcing of American jobs and labor.

For years the U.S. has supported and financed assistance for those with low incomes and other barriers to employment. Currently, there are funded programs for summer youth employment, the training and employment of elders 55yrs and older and people interested in entering high-demand occupations in industries such as healthcare, transportation, construction, etc. There are also existing and new opportunities to assist in the startup or expansion of a small business venture. To take advantage of these opportunities a person must first apply themselves.

If you or someone you know is struggling to find training that can transform their lives, the first stop is your local workforce center. To bolster support for entrepreneurship, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill designed to provide small businesses and entrepreneurs with new and expanded assistance. H.R. 2352, the Job Creation through Entrepreneurship Act of 2009 promises to assist small business owners or aspiring entrepreneurs to get access to finance, training and education.

Under the federal Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and the recent American Recovery Act, funds are available for training for both industry-specific occupations and entrepreneurship. There are several education institutions, non-profit and for-profit entities that are approved by the state of Kansas and Board of Regents to provide training that can lead to increased knowledge and certifications that can give people a boost and advantage in succeeding in new occupational endeavors.

If interested in entrepreneurship, there are two providers in Kansas that provides entrepreneurial training, development or support services under WIA. One is IBSA, Inc., a nonprofit organization located in Topeka that provides entrepreneurial training, development and support services in the Wyandotte, Leavenworth and Johnson County area. This program focus its efforts on those interested in starting or expanding a business related to the construction and skilled trade industry. Unlike traditional entrepreneurial programs that provides training in a group setting, IBSA primarily provides this training and assistance on a one-on-one basis. Program participants are assisted in preparing a feasibility or business plan, assessing their market and competition, locating financing for their business, document preparation and making contact with contract and procurement officials. Other programs involving 'green' industry occupations are soon to be available by this agency.

Next, there is Entrepreneurial Synergy, LLC., also located in Topeka. Entrepreneurial Synergy provides the First Step FastTrac and FastTrac NewVentures microenterprise programs developed by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Entrepreneurial Synergy can deliver training in over 10 counties including Shawnee, Geary, Douglas, and Riley. For more information, call (785) 215-8667 or speak with your workforce center representative covering these counties.

For more information on these particular programs and other federally-funded training opportunities, visit www.KansasWorks.com

IBSA is a nonprofit tax-exempt organization serving Kansans since 1993. The agency has provided employment/training services, youth mentoring/guidance and advocacy in Kansas since 1994. No one is denied access to training based on race, gender, or political affiliation. IBSA is a resource partner to NetworkKansas.com, KCSourceLink.com, and is recognized by the Kansas Department of Commerce as a minority business resource. Contact IBSA at (913) 240-6247 or by email at admin@ibsa-inc.org

STIMULUS WATCH: No-bid contracts mean higher costs

2009-07-19T16:01:00.000-05:00

Jul 17, 7:08 AM (ET)

By BRETT J. BLACKLEDGE

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Defense Department frequently awards no-bid work to small contractors for repairs at military bases under the new economic stimulus law, costing taxpayers millions of dollars more than when businesses compete for the work, according to an Associated Press analysis of 570 such contracts.

The Pentagon saves more than three times as much money when companies compete, the AP analysis showed. Yet more than $242 million in federal contracts - representing more than one-fourth of the military's stimulus contract spending so far - has been awarded under the recovery program through no-bid contracts for repairs and maintenance.

President Barack Obama promised last month to save money through competition.

"By ending unnecessary no-bid contracts and reforming the way government contracts are awarded, we can save the American people up to $40 billion every year," Obama said, as he announced new procedures to increase competition.

In many of the cases, the military bases are eager to spend the stimulus money. Speed is an important element of the Obama administration's effort to jump-start the economy. Bidding and its delays can be avoided by federal rules that permit contract awards to small and disadvantaged businesses without competition, said Navy Cmdr. Darryn James, a Pentagon spokesman.

Across the government, more than $543 million in federal contracts have been awarded so far without competition under Obama's $787 billion stimulus program.

Much of the spending is for common construction work at a time when contractors crippled by the recession are offering steep discounts. State governments are taking advantage, reporting millions in savings as road and construction contracts come in under budget after making companies bid for the work.

The Defense Department can do that, too, and "ensure that we're getting the best deal possible," said Scott Amey of the Project on Government Oversight, a watchdog group that tracks government spending and waste.

"It's not surprising because of the economic times, that guys are actually taking jobs at a loss," said Eric Moore, who helps run Vanguard Construction in Arroyo Grande, Calif. The company has received competitive and no-bid stimulus contracts for maintenance work at Edwards Air Force Base.

Obama's recovery program includes about $7.4 billion for military construction, repairs and improvements at bases put off in recent years because of wartime expenses. The Defense Department also is seeing big savings in its construction contracts, but it is saving far more money when making businesses compete.

The AP reviewed project estimates and actual contract amounts for $420 million in stimulus projects given to contractors hired by military bases. Military bases have awarded about 1,445 contracts totaling $955 million for maintenance and repairs, but only $420 million could be readily compared to earlier Defense project estimates sent to Congress.

The 570 projects reviewed by the AP included $284.4 million in competitively bid contracts and $135.5 million in no-bid contracts.

The work that was competitively bid saved $34 million, with contract costs coming in about 11 percent less than budget estimates. The no-bid work saved $4.4 million, with contract costs coming in about 3 percent less than estimates, the AP's analysis shows.

Military bases have a long list of undone maintenance projects, and some used smaller contractors already working for them or already approved for no-bid work to spend stimulus money efficiently and effectively, said James, the Pentagon spokesman. Some bases also assigned the maintenance work without competition to eligible small contractors before Congress approved the stimulus program, he said.

Small businesses are receiving the bulk of the construction work, and most of that work is being awarded to the lowest bidder, James said.

The Pentagon doesn't have to rely on no-bid contracts to help small businesses. About $138 million of military maintenance contracts awarded through some type of competition went to small, disadvantaged or minority businesses, saving about $22.7 million, or 14 percent, the AP analysis shows.

The difference between some contracts is striking.

_Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska estimated spending $9.2 million on paving jobs, but approved $9.4 million in contracts without competition. Arnold Air Force Base in Tennessee estimated its paving work at $650,000, and awarded $400,815 in contracts after receiving competing bids, or about 38 percent under estimate.

_Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida figured it would spend $638,000 in sewer repair work and awarded the contract without bids for $629,118, slightly under its estimate. Travis Air Force Base in California estimated a sewer repair job at $3.7 million, and awarded a $2.5 million contract after bids, or about 32 percent under estimate.

_Glendale Luke Air Force Base in Arizona estimated it would spend $2.7 million on a heating and air conditioning conversion job but awarded the contract without bids at $3.1 million, or about 17 percent over estimate. The base estimated two other electrical jobs to replace and repair transformers to cost $440,000, but the actual contract was awarded through competitive bids at $454,990, slightly over its estimate.

Some agencies may follow the military's lead - turning to approved small businesses that can win contracts without bidding - so they can meet a requirement of Obama's stimulus program to spend the federal money fast, said Michael Pain, a lawyer who heads the federal construction practice of Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman in Philadelphia.

"The agencies are under some pressure to get this out as quickly as possible," he said.

But that shouldn't lead to waste, said Amey, with the watchdog group.

"There is a premium paid for working with these small companies," Amey said. "But that's where, to the extent possible, the government should entice as much competition as possible."

Entrepreneurship After 50

2009-07-01T19:17:00.001-05:00

Entrepreneurship After 50
What Some Baby Boomers are Doing Instead of Retirement

Although the notion of a 20-something starting a web-based business in their basement is what is often thought of in terms of contemporary entrepreneurship, the reality is that the highest rate of entrepreneurial activity is among baby boomers between the ages of 55 and 64, according to a recent Kauffman Foundation Study. Fortunately, many people over 50 may be very well suited to entrepreneurship due to their experience. Emily Brandon in herUS News and World Report piece "6 Tips for Starting a Business After Age 50" identifies items for the 50 plus set to keep in mind when embarking on their entrepreneurial ventures.

· Tap your network
· Use your experience
· Find start up funds
· Plan for longer hours
· Keep start-up costs low
· Have a backup plan

Nonprofit Funding Opportunities

2009-06-30T19:51:00.000-05:00

U.S. Department of Labor Invites Applications for Green Capacity Building Grants.

The U.S. Department of Labor's (DOL's) Employment and Training Administration announced the availability of $500 million for projects that prepare workers for careers in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries described in Section 171(e)(1)(B) of the Workforce Investment Act. The grants are designed to teach workers the skills required in emerging energy efficiency and renewable energy industries. Eligible applicants are limited to organizations that are current DOL grantees. The Department expects to award between 50 and 100 grants, ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. To view press release, visit: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/eta20090725.htm. For more information and to obtain an application, visit: http://www.doleta.gov/grants/pdf/SGA-DFA-PY-08-21.pdf. Deadline: August 5, 2009

U.S. Department of Labor Invites Applications for Pathways Out of Poverty Grants.

The U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration announced the availability of approximately $150 million for projects that provide training and placement services to provide pathways out of poverty and into employment within industries described in the Supplementary Information, Part B of this Solicitation for Grant Application.

National nonprofit and local entities are eligible to apply. Grants will range from approximately $3 to $8 million for national grantees and $2 to $4 million for local grantees. For more information and application instructions, visit: To obtain additional information, visit:http://www.doleta.gov/grants/pdf/SGA-DFA-PY-08-19.pdf. Deadline: September 29.

U.S. Department of Labor Invites Applications for Energy Training Partnership Grants. The U.S. Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration announced the availability of approximately $100 million for 20-30 projects that provide training and placement services in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries for workers impacted by national energy and environmental policy, individuals in need of updated training related to the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries, and unemployed workers. National, nonprofit labor management organizations and Statewide or local nonprofit entities are eligible to apply. To obtain additional information, visit:

http://www.doleta.gov/grants/pdf/SGA-DFA-PY-08-20.pdf. Deadline: October 20,

Youth Service America Invites Applications for 2010 Global Youth Service Day (GYSD). Youth Service America is accepting applications for its 2010 Global Youth Service Day (April 23-25, 2010). The grants are designed to assist organizations to be a "Lead Agency" in increasing participation in their programs while connecting with the larger youth service movement. Lead Agencies will receive a $2,000 GYSD planning grant sponsored by State Farm Companies Foundation, travel support to attend the Youth Service Institute in Washington, D.C., and direct assistance from Youth Service America to ensure a successful Global Youth Service Day. To obtain additional information and an application, visit:

http://www.gysd.org/partners/leadagencies. Deadline: July 17.

The Ruddie Memorial Youth Foundation Accepting Applications from First-Time Applicants. The Ruddie Memorial Youth Foundation aims to identify and disseminate innovative and effective programs for helping underprivileged youth reach their full potential. The foundation supports programs that provide youth (birth to 25 years of age) with new opportunities for health, personal growth, and success in the United States. Applications will be accepted from nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations based in the greater metropolitan areas of Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Madison, Milwaukee, New York City, Philadelphia (new this year), San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. To obtain additional information and application, visit: http://www.rmyf.org/. Deadline: July 31

Opportunities for Youth, Young Adults, and Teachers

National Law Firm Ober/Kaler Invites Applications for 2009 Community Grants Program. The law firm of Ober/Kaler is accepting applications for its 2009 Community Grants Program. The program awards a total of $35,000 in community grants to aid nonprofit organizations serving at-risk youth living in Baltimore City and Washington, D.C.

The law firm will be awarding two $10,000 grants and one $15,000 special grant to nonprofit organizations working to educate, clothe, shelter, and/or feed disadvantaged youth living in Baltimore City or Washington, D.C. To obtain additional information and an application, visit:http://www.ober.com/grants/. Deadline: August 3.

Saddling minority businesses with cumbersome, duplicative, and time-consuming red tape?

2009-06-17T19:14:00.000-05:00

Biz Talk With Josh -- Radio One/WOL 1450 AM
Visit http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.wolam.com or http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.biztalkwithjosh.com
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, June 19, 2009 @10:30 am EST
Topic - Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Certification

Biz Talk With Josh has broadcast several shows focusing on minority owned businesses, and has shared with our audiences our own views, and those of our invited guests on the topic. A recurring theme whenever we talk about minority owned businesses is the need for their owners to certify that they are indeed members of the six general demographic groups classified as minorities by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Those groups are: Hispanic, Black, White, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander (Islander).

There are differences of opinion about certification programs, but here on Biz Talk With Josh it is our belief that the time, energy, and resources required by entrepreneurs to certify with each city and each city department, each county, and each county department, each state, each federal agency, and each corporation where that entrepreneur would like to do business is not only onerous, but it actually takes away time from developing and growing the business - the very reason the entrepreneur went into business in the first place.

An observation from the Final Report of the U. S. Commission on Minority Business Development (published in 1992), of which Biz Talk Host, Joshua Smith, was Chairman, still rings true today: "...while originally intended to safeguard minority businesses from abuse, a myriad of certification processes have evolved and have "backfired," saddling minority businesses with cumbersome, duplicative, and time-consuming red tape." The Commission further recommended that the certification process be made uniform and standardized and that a "certified" business be recognized by every level of government and not forced into a series of re-applications. In 2009, this remains but a wish...as entrepreneurs wishing to participate in limited competition business opportunities where they can compete against companies of like size still must jump through many hoops before they can even qualify to submit a proposal.

There are, however, some programs at the state level that have taken the lead on a uniform certification for MBEs, making the one-stop shop for these companies more of a reality and lessening the need to individually certify a company with each department within a state government. This week on Biz Talk With Josh, we are pleased to have with us representatives from two such states.

In Maryland, the state Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for certifying MBEs, and we are so very glad to feature Ms. Zenita Wickham Hurley, Director of the DOT MBE Office. In Virginia, fresh from a recently completed disparity study in that state, Mr. Samuel Hayes, Director, Department of MBE will share with us the results of that study. Both guests will share with us how MBE certification is handled in their respective state, what kinds of programs are available to assist MBEs and the future of business opportunities for minority owned businesses.

Please encourage all your business associates, family and friends to listen in at WOL 1450 AM or on the Internet at t http://www.facebook.com/l/;www.wolam.com at 10:30 am EST every Friday morning. Call us toll free at 1-800-450-7876.

Biz Talk With Josh focuses on the issues, developments and concerns which impact entrepreneurs, small and minority/women-owned businesses. The show broadcasts live on Radio One/WOL 1450 AM in the Washington, DC area and is always available following the live broadcast at biztalkwithjosh.

For additional information please visit our website, or email our Host, Joshua Smith (josh@biztalkwithjosh), or our producer, Andre Carrington (andre@biztalkwithjosh)

US DOL/ETA Advisories - Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number/Central Contractor Registration (CCR) Mandatory Requirement for Federal Grant Sub-recipients under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

2009-06-12T16:57:00.000-05:00

Directive:
TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT GUIDANCE LETTER NO. 29-08

Subject:
Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number/Central Contractor Registration (CCR) Mandatory Requirement for Federal Grant Sub-recipients under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

Purpose:
To inform the workforce system of the mandatory requirement for sub-recipients, i.e., any first-tier subcontract or sub-award funded in whole or in part under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act), to obtain a DUNS numberwww.dnb.com. Any such sub-recipient must also establish and maintain active and current profiles in the CCR at www.ccr.gov.

To:	STATE WORKFORCE AGENCIES STATE WORKFORCE LIAISONS STATE WORKFORCE ADMINISTRATORS STATE AND LOCAL WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARDS	From:	DOUGLAS F. SMALL Deputy Assistant Secretary
Date:	June 10, 2009	Expiration Date:	Continuing

Rescissions: None

Contact: Questions regarding this issuance should be directed to the appropriate Employment and Training Administration regional office.

Text:
To preserve the formatting of this document, it has been converted to PDF (Portable Document Format) to retain its original layout.

View the Complete Document

Subcontractor & Vendor Registrations For Bid Opportunities

2009-06-09T10:05:00.001-05:00

Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Continues To Welcome
Subcontractor & Vendor Registrations For Bid Opportunities

Although most of the jobs for the waterpark construction have already been awarded, there are plenty of opportunities for subcontractors and vendors when the focus shifts to building the rest of the resort, including the Riverwalk retail area and lodging elements. Those interested in bidding on projects at Schlitterbahn Vacation Village are encouraged to register with Schlitterbahn in order to receive bid opportunities. Once an organization registers, they are added to the distribution list for bid opportunities as they be come available. Organizations must register to receive bid opportunities from Schlitterbahn. Please relay this information to interested parties.

HOW TO REGISTER WITH SCHLITTERBAHN

Subcontractors
If you are interested in bidding on a construction job, you must register with us in order to be considered. To register, you must complete our short online form and the downloadable Subcontractor & Vendor Registration Form on our Web site.

· Go to schlittterbahn.com, click on Kansas City, click on Construction, click on Registration.
· Click on Subcontractor Inquiries and fill out the short online form and Submit.
· Download the Subcontractor & Vendor Registration Form, complete the form, and email it to SVVSubcontractor@schlitterbahn.com, fax it to us at 913.312.3199, or mail it to 9400 State Avenue, Kansas City, Kansas 66112.
· We will contact you to bid on projects as the become available.

Please email all subcontractor inquiries to SVVSubcontractor@schlitterbahn.com or call 913.312.3102.

Vendors
If you are a vendor interested in providing supplies or services for the waterpark, you must register with us in order to be considered. To register, you must complete our short online form and the downloadable Subcontractor & Vendor Registration Form on our Web site.

· Go to schlittterbahn.com, click on Kansas City, click on Construction, click on Registration.
· Click on Vendor Inquiries and fill out the short online form and Submit.
· Download the Subcontractor & Vendor Registration Form, complete the form, and email it to SVVVendor@schlitterbahn.com, fax it to us at 913.334.5206, or mail it to 1709 N. 98th Street, Kansas City, Kansas 66111.
· We will contact you to bid on items as needed.
Please email all other vendor inquiries to SVVVendor@schlitterbahn.com or call 913.334.5200

Policy Dialogue on Entrepreneurship | House Gives Vote of Confidence to Entrepreneurs

2009-06-01T23:32:00.001-05:00

Policy Dialogue on Entrepreneurship | House Gives Vote of Confidence to Entrepreneurs

Posted using ShareThis

President Obama Challenges All Americans to Obtain the Skills and Education Needed to Succeed in Today's Economy

2009-05-29T14:06:00.001-05:00

Volume 2, Issue 5

President Obama Challenges All Americans to Obtain the Skills and Education Needed to Succeed in Today's Economy!

Obama lists Registered Apprenticeship as a critical education and training option

In recent remarks regarding the efforts underway through the Recovery Act to help stimulate the economy, President Obama again stressed the need for all Americans to seek additional education and/or training for 21 st Century careers.

"Right now, someone who doesn't have a college degree is more than twice as likely to be unemployed as someone who does," said Obama. "And so many of the Americans who have lost their jobs can't find new ones because they simply don't have the skills and the training they need for the jobs they want. In a 21st century economy, where the most valuable skill you can sell is your knowledge, education is the single best bet we can make, not just for our individual success, but for the success of the nation as a whole."

During the remarks the President again highlighted Registered Apprenticeship as a critical education and training option:

"And to that end, I have asked once again every American to commit to at least one year or more of higher education or career training. It can be community college or a four-year school; vocational training or an apprenticeship."

The president also announced the launch of Opportunity.gov, a joint Department of Labor and Department of Education Web site, aimed at helping unemployed workers find out more on the training programs and financial support available to them through Recovery Act and other efforts aimed at assisting dislocated workers.

For more information visithttp://federalstudentaid.ed.gov/opportunity/index.html

Secretary Solis Discusses Unemployment & Highlights Role of Apprenticeship in Training for Growing Industries

On Friday, May 8th Secretary Solis was featured on CNN Newsroom to discuss the latest Unemployment Report. During her interview with CNN's Betty Nguyen the Secretary discussed the latest jobs report, the economy and job opportunities in emerging industries. While job losses remain high in certain sectors, Secretary Solis was optimistic about the Department's ongoing job training efforts (grant opportunities discussed below) in growing industries, including green technologies, IT and Health Care.

The Secretary also highlighted Registered Apprenticeship, encouraging people to, "…start investigating what kinds of programs are out there at the community college, vocational schools and also apprenticeship programs."

To see the Secretary's full interview, click here.

ETA Announces Plans to Award Green Job Training Funds

On May 15, 2009, the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) issued Training and Employment Notice (TEN) 44-08,"American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Competitive Grants for Green Job Training," to help provide guidance on the use of these funds for "Green Job Training."

TEN 44-08 is a great resource to help you and your workforce and apprenticeship counterparts learn more on the goals and expectations for "Green Job Training." You'll find information on ETA's strategic vision, and the potential funding opportunities this critical Recovery Act funding provides, including: State Labor Market Information Improvement Grants, Energy Training Partnership Grants, Pathways Out of Poverty Grants, State Sector Training Grants, and Green Capacity Building Grants.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides $750 million for grants to help train and place workers in high growth and emerging industries - $500 million of which is to be used to train workers in green industries, including the energy efficiency and renewable energy sectors.

Click here to access TEN 44-08.

Also, be sure to refer back to Training and Employment Guidance Letter (TEGL) 14-08 (also highlighted in ELS Newsletter Volume 2, Issue 3) to learn more on how Registered Apprenticeship can be a viable training option for Recovery Act activities. Areas where Registered Apprenticeship is highlighted include:

References: Registered Apprenticeship TEGL 02-07 (p. 2)
Emphasis of Note for Recovery Act: Green Jobs (p. 7)
Allowable Activities for WIA Adult funds (p. 10)
Recommended strategies for WIA Adult funds (p. 11)
Recommended strategies for WIA Dislocated Worker funds (p. 14)
Training Activities for WIA Adult and Dislocated Worker Programs (p. 16)
WIA Youth Program:
a.   Meaningful work experience (p. 27)
b.   Green work experience (p. 29)
c.   Connections to registered apprenticeship (p. 29)
WIA State Plan for PY 2009
a. Overarching state strategies (p. 43)
b. Service Delivery Strategies, Support for Training (p. 43)

Access the full TEGL here: TEGL 14-08.

KCC ENERGY DEPARTMENT AND ENERGY PROGRAMS

2009-05-21T21:50:00.001-05:00

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the State Energy Office is receiving approximately $52 million in additional funding from the Department of Energy. The funding comes through three different federal programs:

$38,284,000 through the State Energy Program (SEP);
$9,593,500 through Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block; and
$3.7 million for a new Appliance Rebate Program.

New Programs Using State Energy Program (SEP) Funds

Pending approval from the U.S. Department of Energy, the State Energy Office plans to implement the following programs.

Revolving Loan Program for Energy Efficiency ($34.2 million): This program will establish a revolving loan fund to provide a sustainable source of financing for cost-effective energy efficiency improvements in Kansas homes and small businesses.

To ensure improvements will be cost-effective, the Revolving Loan Program requires all funded projects to be based on an audit and a customized energy conservation proposal from an approved energy auditor.
Participants can access the Revolving Loan Program either through (1) Partner Banks or (2) Partner Utilities.
Pending DOE approval, the new program will be available on July 15, 2009.

Loan Fee Rebate Program ($481,000): This program will provide $250 rebates to banks to offset loan origination fees.
Energy Audit Rebate Program ($350,000): This program will provide a $350 rebate to offset the costs of the energy audit for the first 1,000 participants who elect to implement approved projects through the Revolving Loan Program.
Training Program ($250,000): This program will provide support to (1) qualified energy auditor training institutions for initiatives to "Train the Trainers" and enhancements to facilities, such as expanded labs for furnace testing (see grant announcement); and (2) fund up to 100 full scholarships ($1,200 to $1,500) to those attending the energy auditor training program.
Equipment for New Auditors ($250,000): This program will assist 50 new auditors in obtaining the necessary start-up equipment (e.g, blower door, duct blaster) to start a new business and perform energy audits through the Revolving Loan Program.
Marketing Program ($500,000): The State Energy Office will employ the services of a marketing firm to assist with the development and implementation of a strategic promotional campaign.
Utility Rate Design – Planning for Comprehensive Changes ($1 million): The Kansas Corporation Commission will employ the services of a consultant to assist in developing and guiding a comprehensive, collaborative planning process to redesign utility rate structures to achieve new goals of energy efficiency and environmental protection.

New Programs Using Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Funds

Renewable Energy Grant Program ($3.8 million): This program will provide grants for 25% of the cost (up to $250,000) of renewable energy projects undertaken by local units of government and educational institutions throughout the state. The State Energy Office will submit its application to DOE by June 25, 2009.
Enhancing the existing Facility Conservation Improvement Program ($5.7 million): This program will provide enhancements to the existing Facility Conservation Improvement Program (FCIP). Program details are under development. The SEO will submit its application to DOE by June 25, 2009.

http://www.kcc.state.ks.us/energy/index.htm

URL: http://kcc.ks.gov/energy/arra.htm
Revised Thursday, 14-May-2009 13:41:43 CDT

GSA Heartland Office of Business and Support Services

2009-05-21T19:01:00.001-05:00

The GSA Heartland Office of Business and Support Services (OBSS) is dedicated to identifying bidding opportunities and contracting vehicles for small businesses. The procurement preference categories are: small, small disadvantaged, Section 8(a), woman-owned small, HUBZone small, veteran-owned small, and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses.

Vendors are notified of current GSA procurement projects electronically by registering on FedBizOpps (Federal Business Opportunities).

Kansas City's Networking Business Breakfasts

Local entrepreneurs are offered the opportunity to introduce their business to small and large businesses, school districts and universities, as well as local, state and federal agencies. The breakfasts are held the first Tuesday of each month in Kansas City, Missouri.

For more information, and to see a list of upcoming Kansas City's Networking Business Breakfasts, please visit the Kansas City's Small Business Networking Breakfast Events link or call (816) 926-7203. You may register for the next breakfast by visiting the Business Breakfast Information page and downloading the registration form.

Attention Veteran-Owned Small BusinessesGSA, the federal government and prime contractors are actively searching for veteran-owned small businesses (especially service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses). Contact the Heartland Office of Business and Support Services to request information on contracting and subcontracting opportunities.

The shortcut for this page is www.gsa.gov/r6smallbusiness

GSA Heartland Office of Business and Support Services
(816) 926-7203
Fax (816) 823-1167
business.counseling@gsa.gov

Patricia Brown-Dixon
(816) 926-7203
pat.brown-dixon@gsa.gov

Schlitterbahn Vacation Village / KC Blueprint On-line Planroom Registration Notice

2009-05-20T13:57:00.001-05:00

- Construction Contractors/Subcontractors -

Please take some time to register your company on our online KC Blueprint planroom where Schlitterbahn construction documents will be managed exclusively. Be sure to identify the individual (and applicable email) where you will want Schlitterbahn project information delivered to ensure you and your company are kept up to date on all opportunities that become available.

All bid invitations, document updates and pertinent project information will be distributed exclusively through this planroom and online database. You will need to be a registered user to access plans, specifications and project info to bid on this project.

REGISTRATION IS FREE!!!

One of the many benefits of being registered is you will receive via e-mail up to the minute information on this project. The link below will take you to KC Blueprint's home page and from there you will click on "Online Planroom". If you need instructions registering, contact KC Blueprint customer service at (816) 527-0900 for additional support. www.kcblueprint.com

Thank you

Eric Cardwell

Document Manager/Project Coordinator

KC Blueprint & Planroom

2106 Swift

North Kansas City, MO 64116

Phone: (816) 527-0900

Mobile: (816) 509-7047

Receive Bid Opportunities Via Email: www.ibsacontracting.blogspot.com

Plans for "Pathways out of Poverty" Grants Announced

2009-05-18T11:33:00.001-05:00

This notice provides plenty of time to prepare a proposal to crate programs that provides skills training for the new green economy.

The Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration (ETA) has announced its initial plans for awarding "green job training" funds under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Training and Employment Notice (TEN) 44-08 summarizes these plans. This document can be found at http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?docn=2755

ETA draws your particular attention to the "Pathways out of Poverty" grants mentioned in TEN 44-08. Two separate applicant pools can compete for grants under this solicitation:

(1) Eligible national community-based and faith-based organizations with local networks; and

(2) Local partnerships that include community-based organizations, education and training institutions, business and labor organizations.

SBA Adm. Mills Annnounces ARC Program

2009-05-18T10:50:00.001-05:00

Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Waterpark Seeks Vendors for Specialty Merchandise

2009-05-11T09:51:00.000-05:00

Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Waterpark Seeks Vendors For Specialty Merchandise

The new Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Waterpark

opens this summer in Kansas City, Kansas with signature

Schlitterbahn attractions including slides, chutes,

tubing rivers and more!

Please share the information in this notice regarding

vendor opportunities with your organization or members.

Instructions on how to register for consideration

are listed below Current Opportunities.

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES

We are currently seeking vendors that provide specialty

retail products on a wholesale basis. We are requesting

bids on souvenir and promotional items, including but not limited to drink bottles, t-shirts, key chains,

beach towels and more. To receive information about these opportunities as they become available, your

organization must be registered with Schlitterbahn Vacation Village Waterpark.

HOW TO REGISTER WITH SCHLITTERBAHN

If you are a vendor interested in providing services or merchandise for the waterpark, you must register

with us in order to be considered. To register, you must complete our short online form and the

downloadable Subcontractor & Vendor Registration Form on our Web site.

•

Go to schlittterbahn.com, click on Kansas City, click on Construction, click on Registration.

•

Click on Vendor Inquiries and fill out the short online form and Submit.

•

Download the Subcontractor & Vendor Registration Form, complete the form, and email it to

SVVVendor@schlitterbahn.com

fax it to us at 913.334.5106, or mail it to 1709 N. 98th Street, Kansas

City, Kansas 66111.

•

We will contact you to bid on items as needed.

Please email all other vendor inquiries to

SVVVendor@schlitterbahn.com or call 913.334.5200.