Open for Business: City of Austin Conference Unleashing Billions in Opportunities

Austin, Texas - The City of Austin’s Small and Minority Business Resources Department (SMBR), in partnership with the Economic Development (EDD) and Financial Services (FSD) Departments, will host the “Minority and Small Business Connection" conference, September 12, 2023, from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the Palmer Events Center. 

The conference offers valuable knowledge on accessing city of Austin resources, initiatives, programs, funding and procurement opportunities tailored to support minority and small businesses. The conference's theme, "We Are Open For Business," underscores the city’s commitment to fostering diversity and creating equitable opportunities within Austin’s vibrant business ecosystem. 

“Connections represents a significant investment in the continued growth and sustainability of the area’s small and minority business community,” said Edward Campos, director of SMBR. “We hope to equip them with the knowledge and resources to do business with the City today to help ensure our community's future success and strategic growth for years to come.”

Minority and Small Business Connection is open to entrepreneurs, business owners, and community members. The event will feature experts from various departments, including Financial Services, Economic Development, Austin Convention Center, and more. Attendees can look forward to an immersive experience filled with enlightening panel discussions, networking opportunities, and interactive breakout sessions.

Highlights and benefits of the conference include:

• Connections: There will be opportunities to connect and network with City departmental staff during the "City Connection" exhibitor show, giving businesses information on upcoming procurements and answering questions. 
• Engagement: The event promotes networking between local business owners, resource providers, City officials, and leaders who are pivotal in the day-to-day operations of
• the City.
• Informational Sessions: The conference features informative workshops, panel discussions, and breakout sessions providing key information on how to do business with the City, access local business assistance, and expand knowledge of upcoming procurement opportunities. 
• Resources: Attendees will discover available resources to assist with managing and scaling their small or emerging businesses.

For more information about the Minority and Small Business Connection conference, including registration details and the latest updates, please visit: bit.ly/MSBC2023.