In 2012, eight million minority-owned businesses contributed $1.38 trillion in revenue and 7.2 million jobs to the economy! In recent years, minority-owned companies have seen an increase in the last five years, but lag in terms of revenues and sales of non-minority businesses. Of the 26.9 million small-owned businesses in the US, African-Americans own only 2.6 million.
Businesses took advantage of a unique opportunity to attend the Statewide HUB Program’s educational workshops to meet with purchasers from state agencies and institutions of higher education. They were also able to submit bid proposals on-site made possible during the Doing Business Texas Style Fair sponsored by Senator Royce West.
The Annual Bid Fair is the largest premier business expo in the southwest linking minority-owned businesses with corporations, public sector agencies, and prime federal suppliers. There is an opportunity for everyone to make a connection, build a relationship and learn more about future business opportunities. As part of the Businesses In Development (BID) Academy, Community and Economic Development Program Specialist held one of the 12-course curriculum classes in Irving, TX where the participant’s met with purchasing agents from across the State and submitted live bid proposals. Of the 17 small businesses that attended, over 21 bids were submitted for contracts. At least three (3) bids have been awarded. Another class participant completed a proposal for $180,000 to Lamar University for funding.
This work was supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, 1890 Extension Formula Program projects under Section 1444.
Jimmy Henry
Program Leader CED
(936) 261-5115
jlhenry@pvamu.edu