Minority business sessions set

2 workshops in Toledo to guide locals on getting state contracts

10/19/2013

Two workshops in Toledo this month aim to increase awareness among local minority businesses of how to get state government contracts.

The sessions by the Ohio Department of Administrative Services and the Ohio Development Services Agency were arranged with the help of state Sen. Edna Brown (D., Toledo) and Toledo City Council President Paula Hicks-Hudson.

“We have many highly motivated and successful minority businesses right here in northwest Ohio. Unfortunately, they have been unable to obtain state contracts, primarily due to a lack of certification,” Ms. Brown said. “These workshops will help certify local minority businesses and make them eligible for state contracts that are specifically set aside for them.”

The first workshop will feature Todd McGonigle, manager of the state Development Services Agency’s minority business enterprise program.

He will give an overview of his program, which helps minority businesses get government contracts. The workshop is from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library’s Kent branch, 3101 Collingwood Blvd.

The second workshop, featuring Development Services Agency officials, will give attendees information on obtaining certification for the program. It will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 29 at the Kent branch.

“This is a first step in an ongoing effort to connect our local businesses with state resources,” Ms. Brown said. “Increased participation in the MBE program will help bring jobs to our area and I am excited to help make that a reality.”