Attention all business owners & entrepreneurs!
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 15, 2024, for our joint Supplier Diversity & Procurement Summit.
In today’s world, supplier diversity and procurement are crucial aspects of sustainable business growth and community empowerment. That’s why we’re bringing industry leaders from the public and private sectors, procurement professionals, and entrepreneurs together to share insights and resources to help you gain knowledge and resources to help your business grow and thrive.
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, a procurement expert, or simply passionate about creating a more inclusive economy, this summit is for you! Together, let’s champion diversity, drive change, and unlock the full potential of our businesses and communities.
This event is FREE, and registration is required. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today! The deadline to RSVP is May 8, 2024.
Event Information
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location:
Columbus Metropolitan Library – Main Branch
96 S. Grant Ave.
Columbus, OH 43205
Agenda
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Registration and breakfast
9:30 AM – 9:45 AM: Welcome and morning speakers
- Pat Losinski – CEO, Columbus Metropolitan Library
- Mayor Andrew J. Ginther – City of Columbus
- Director Lydia Mihalik – Ohio Department of Development
9:45 AM – 10:00 AM: Agency remarks
- Dr. Angela Chapman – Superintendent, Columbus City Schools
- Damika Withers – Franklin County Board of Commissioners, Chief Economic Equity & Inclusion Officer
- Niel Jurist – MORPC, Senior Director of Communications & Engagement
10:00 AM – 10:10 AM: Transition to Breakout Sessions – Networking Break
10:10 AM – 11:10 AM: A.M. Breakout Sessions
- How to get certified (City of Columbus, Columbus City Schools, State of Ohio)
- Procurement (City of Columbus, Columbus City Schools, Franklin County, State of Ohio)
- Getting Contracts and Bidding (Columbus City Schools, Columbus Metropolitan Library, MORPC)
11:10 AM – 11:20 AM: Transition to Main Room – Boxed Lunch Pickup
11:20 AM – 11:30 AM: Agency Remarks
- Councilmember Nicholas J. Bankston – Columbus City Council
- Commissioner Kevin L. Boyce – President, Franklin County Board of Commissioners
11:30 AM – 12:45 PM: Lunch & Capital Funding Panel Discussion
Moderator:
- Monica Womack – Chief, Minority Business Development Division, Ohio Department of Development
Panelists:
- Deonna Barnett – CEO, Aventi Enterprises
- Steve Fireman – President/General Counsel, ECDI
- Malik Malone – Business Advisor, Ohio Minority Business Development Agency
- Vonisha Turner – Business Support Specialist, Freedom Equity
- Jeffery Washington – Commercial Lending Relationship Manager, Wright-Patt Credit Union
- Adelphi Bank
12:45 PM – 12:55 PM: Transition to Breakout Sessions – Networking Break
12:55 PM – 1:55 PM: P.M. Breakout Sessions
- How to get certified (City of Columbus, Columbus City Schools, State of Ohio)
- Procurement (City of Columbus, Columbus City Schools, Franklin County, State of Ohio)
- Getting Contracts and Bidding (Columbus City Schools, Columbus Metropolitan Library, MORPC)
1:55 PM – 2:10 PM: Transition to Main Room – Networking Break
2:10 PM – 2:30 PM: Closing Remarks
- Dr. Kenyona Walker – Director of Equity, Columbus City Schools
- Jason Jenkins – Chief Diversity Officer, City of Columbus Office of Diversity and Inclusion
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Vendor Showcase – Current/Upcoming Procurement Opportunities
4:00 PM: Reception – Brass Eye Rooftop at The Junto
Parking
Parking on the day of the event will be free.
The Main Library’s parking garage is accessed from Library Park North off of S. Grant Ave.
The garage opens at 8:30 a.m.
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