Small business owners across Western North Carolina are invited to join us for a full-day, interactive workshop series designed to help you successfully navigate government and institutional contracting opportunities. Whether you’re new to procurement or looking to strengthen your bidding strategies, these workshops will give you the tools, strategies, and connections you need to grow.

What You’ll Gain:

• A clear understanding of local, state, and federal procurement pathways
• Step-by-step guidance on vendor registration (NC Bids, SAM.gov, and local portals)
• Best practices for responding to bids and RFPs
• Direct access to contracting partners and agencies ready to do business with small vendors
• Inspiring success stories from local businesses that have won contracts

Workshop Agenda:

8:30 – 9:00 AM | Check-in & Light Breakfast
9:00 – 9:15 AM | Welcome & Opening Remarks
9:15 – 10:00 AM | Introduction to Government Contracting
10:00 – 10:45 AM | How to Register as a Vendor
10:45 – 11:00 AM | Break
11:00 – 12:00 PM | Tips for Responding to a Bid
12:00 – 12:45 PM | Networking Lunch (provided)
12:45 – 1:45 PM | Round Robin: Meet the Contracting Partners
1:45 – 2:15 PM | Real-World Success Stories
2:15 – 2:45 PM | Q&A and Resource Highlights
2:45 – 3:00 PM | Closing & Evaluation

Who Should Attend:

• Entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking to grow through contracting
• Vendors interested in learning how to position themselves for procurement opportunities
• Business leaders who want to connect directly with procurement officials and anchor institutions

Upcoming Date:

Southwestern Community College | Sylva, NC | November 12, 2025 | Register Here

Seats are limited for each workshop. Registration is required to secure your spot.

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