BRADY HOSTS MINORITY PROCUREMENT SEMINAR

Washington, DC (October 9, 2007) On Thursday, September 27th, House Administration Committee Chairman Robert A. Brady hosted a seminar on minority procurement opportunities with several key federal agencies. The seminar was designed to provide information on the procurement process, as well as specific programs and opportunities to increase access for minority and women owned businesses.
"Clearly, there are ongoing barriers and impediments that limit the opportunities for minority and women owned businesses to enjoy equal participation in the federal contracting process," said Brady. "I'm committed to ensuring that equal opportunity and access exist within the agencies overseen by my Committee," he added. 

More than 300 minority and women entrepreneurs attended the event, which featured presentations from the Architect of the Capitol, the Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives, the General Services Administration and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Speakers provided insight into their individual procurement processes as well as the range of products and services they acquire and the qualifications necessary to successfully bid on federal projects. Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to meet and network with procurement representatives as well as other business owners.

In his remarks to participants, Brady encouraged the development of partnerships and coalitions among minority businesses as a way to expand their ability to compete. "In addition to networking with the government agencies that are present, I'd encourage you to network with each other," said Brady. "In building relationships and partnerships with each other, you enable yourselves to build greater capacity and access to large federal contracts," he added.

Brady expressed his ongoing commitment to supporting the growth of minority businesses and his emphasis on continuing to develop innovative ways to provide information and access. "While today's seminar is an important step in helping to facilitate expanded access for minority and women-owned businesses, it is by no means the end of our commitment," said Brady. "I have encouraged these agencies and my staff to work with you on an ongoing basis and we intend to ensure that they respond and support your efforts."