VALDOSTA – The South Georgia Black Chamber recently hosted a Georgia Business Certification Workshop to assist small business owners.
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To strengthen local small businesses, the South Georgia Black Chamber of Commerce (SGBC) recently hosted the Georgia Small Business Certification Workshop. The workshop, held on March 20, 2024 at the Willis L. Miller Library, brought together approximately 40 passionate small business owners who are passionate about navigating the certification process for small businesses. People from Valdosta, Thomasville, Cairo and Albany attended the workshop.
The workshop, led by Julian Bailey of the Georgia Department of Administrative Services, focused on the Georgia Business Certification Program, which the state just launched on January 1 of the year. The event was supported by Heather Craft, Small Business Liaison for the Valdosta State University Department of Accounting and Procurement, and Antolina Pilgrim, CPA, Valdosta State University Department of Financial Services. Participants learned about the program's eligibility criteria and the various benefits associated with certification, including tax benefits for prime contractors.
“The workshop hosted by the South Georgia Black Chamber of Commerce is a perfect example of the type of training we look forward to conducting across the state,” said Bailey. The Business Certification Program accepts applications from minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses based in Georgia. We help local business owners do business with Georgia and grow their businesses. We are excited to partner with organizations like the South Georgia Black Chamber to ensure we have the information to help.”
This workshop was not just about understanding the certification process. We also delved into the complex landscape of government procurement rules and regulations. Participants received a comprehensive overview of the procurement process for a variety of state agencies, from public universities to state departments such as education, transportation, and behavioral health. The importance of accessing the online version of the Georgia Procurement Manual and accurately navigating procurement regulations was emphasized.
This workshop focused on the procurement process for goods and products, focusing on the use of statewide contracts and hierarchies within the procurement system. Attendees were enlightened about the bidding process, including the use of RFQs, RFPs, RFIs, and the importance of the Georgia Procurement Registry for accessing bidding opportunities.
The session also covered platforms like the Georgia Procurement Marketplace, which are essential tools for bidding and procurement activities. Participants were encouraged to register on the platform to effectively respond to bidding opportunities. The workshop also emphasized the importance of participating in pre-bid meetings to ensure compliance with bid requirements and increase bid success.
Additionally, this workshop will discuss the Georgia Business Supply Diversity Program, which focuses on streamlining the procurement process for small businesses, especially those owned by women, minorities, and veterans, under Georgia House Bill 128. I got some insight. Participants learned about other resources available to support underrepresented businesses.
Sabrina Wilson, who came from Thomasville looking for resources to grow her business, commented: She learned a lot of information. I have told my church family and friends and look forward to becoming a member. ”
A small business certification workshop hosted by the South Georgia Black Chamber of Commerce will provide valuable insight for local entrepreneurs to navigate the government procurement process and take advantage of certification opportunities, according to chamber representatives. It is said that it functioned as an important platform for obtaining information.
“With our team's commitment to fostering economic growth and fair access to government contracts, our business certification workshops demonstrate the importance of empowering small businesses in South Georgia's thriving business environment. SGBC President and CEO H. Dwayne Johnson concluded.
For information about the Small Business and Supplier Diversity Program or to apply for Georgia Business Certification, please visit www.doas.ga.gov.
For information about the South Georgia Black Chamber or to become a member, visit www.sgablackchambers.org.
