WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is sponsoring the second annual "Bridging the Gap" summit to promote small business ownership among veterans, minorities, women and Native Americans. The summit will be held today in Midwest City, Okla.
“This summit will highlight the advantages of contracting with veterans and various minority-owned businesses,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. “The small-business sector of the economy is growing, and VA is providing the information and tools that people need to join the ranks of business owners.”
This year’s summit will focus on connecting veterans and business while stressing the importance of alliances among veterans, tribal enterprises, African-Americans and women for contracting opportunities.
The summit will feature lectures and interactive workshops to address business strategies, contracting and financing opportunities. Participants will also have the opportunity to visit a business trade show to obtain additional resources.
Information on VA small business resources for veterans can be obtained from the department's Center for Veterans Enterprise on the Internet at http://www.vetbiz.gov or by calling toll free at 866-584-2344.
Additional summit information can be obtained by calling 405-721-7776.
