Contractor Workshop Will Teach the In's and Outs of Public Contracting at CGCC July 12
by Dan Spatz
Columbia Gorge business owners and managers will have a rare opportunity Wednesday, July 12, 2023 to learn how to compete in the public contracting world when “Connect2Oregon” comes to The Dalles.
Each week across the United States, private companies secure state and federal contracting agreements totalling billions of dollars. It’s an important revenue source that also enables those agencies to fulfill their public missions, but the rules and procedures around government contracts are often daunting for small businesses.
Connect2Oregon is an initiative of more than 15 state and federal agencies, hosted locally by the Small Business Development Center at Columbia Gorge Community College and partner organizations statewide, designed to take the mystery out of public contracting.
The seven-hour free workshop is from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on The Dalles Campus of Columbia Gorge Community College, Building 2 Lecture Hall. There will be booths, exhibits and training. Registration is strongly encouraged. Register on-line at tinyurl.com/5dex9uet
The workshop is open to all. Contractors attending will receive four continuing education unit credits. Lunch is provided.
“When Oregon and the federal government contract with local small businesses, it's a win-win for all of us,” said Kelly Stevens-Malnar of Oregon Department of Administrative Services, one of many agencies represented at the event. “Public agencies across the state spend billions of dollars on goods and services providing vital infrastructure to all Oregonians. These dollars also create economic opportunities for local businesses,” she added. “Do you think your business is too small to contract with government agencies? Think again!”
“This is a great opportunity for community engagement, and promote partnership across a very wide range of agencies,” said Greg Price, SBDC executive director.“Whether you’re starting a business; have been in business through generations; need assistance growing your business; or just want to learn how government contracting works, this training will provide guidance and tools in an easy to understand format,” Price explained.
For information, call the Small Business Development Center, (541) 506-6120 or email gprice@cgcc.edu
