The Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) will host the state's first Contract Connections, a federal industry day. The event, to be held on Monday, December 13 from 7:30 am to 4 pm at the Food and Drug Administration building in Silver Spring, is an opportunity for Maryland businesses to connect with government agencies.
The event wiil feature National institutes of Health (NIH), NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Social Security Administration, and other federal agencies, as well as the Naval Air Systems Command, Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), and other military commands. Participating companies will be able to learn about contracting and subcontracting opportunities; and gain valuable insight into the procurement process. One-on-one "matchmaking" sessions will allow businesses to present their statements of capabilities to federal agencies.
"The federal facilities and military commands in our state are an important economic engine for Maryland," says DBED Secretary Christian S. Johansson. "Contract Connections is part of Governor Martin O'Malley's comprehensive effort to support and leverage the vast potential of these facilities and to connect Maryland companies with federal contracting opportunities to create jobs for Marylanders."
Maryland is home to more than 50 federal facilities which contribute an estimated $16 billion to the state's economy. For the year ending September 30, 2010, federal agencies contracted $34 billion with Maryland companies. In addition, Maryland's military installations have an economic impact of $36 billion and purchase nearly $7 billion in goods and services from Maryland companies.
To further assist businesses seeking work with government agencies, DBED recently launched a B2G website which includes a "how to" guide and other resources for businesses interested in applying for federal contracts.
Guest speakers at Contract Connections include Walter Havenstein, CEO of SAIC, who will deliver the keynote address, and Russell J. Abbott, FDA Deputy Commissioner, who will offer opening remarks.
Registration is $55 and includes breakfast, lunch and materials. For additional information, visit Contract Connections.
Source: Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development
Writer: Walaika Haskins