Durham, N.C. - Yesterday, Durham County held a successful Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) Vendor Meet and Greet event providing a space for connections between over 140 HUB-certified businesses and representatives from more than 20 county departments. This event, led by County Manager Dr. Kimberly J. Sowell, aligns with Durham County's aspirational goal of 25% spending with HUB certified businesses.

The event, held during Black Business Month, provided a platform for HUBs to share their expertise and offerings with department representatives, opening doors for future partnerships. The vibrant atmosphere encouraged networking among HUB businesses, promoting collaboration and growth within the local minority and women-owned business community.

"The Office of Supplier Diversity is excited to host an event dedicated to fostering connections between Durham County departments and our diverse network of MWBEs. This program aligns with our ongoing efforts to support and integrate HUB vendors into our procurement processes. This is a strategic step towards enhancing the economic landscape for minority and women-owned businesses in our community. By connecting our departments with HUB certified vendors, we aim to drive inclusive growth and support the vitality of our local economy," said Shannon Trapp, Durham County Chief of Staff.

Evingerlean Blakney of Blakney Global Solutions, Inc. described the meet and greet as exciting, meaningful, and impactful. "As someone who attends almost every outreach program, this one put me directly in front of those who recruit and retain my services and introduced me to those I didn't even realize would need my services. I'm walking away from this event far more knowledgeable, feeling extremely confident about future partnerships, and affirmed that Durham County means business about minority-owned businesses. I can't wait to see what the future holds!"

The HUB Meet and Greet was coordinated by Nadia Phillips, MWBE Coordinator in the Office of Supplier Diversity, in collaboration with Durham County Leadership Academy, the County's internal professional development initiative. The Leadership Academy team's focus is on building strategies to increase MWBE program participation across the county.

"After the event, I had conversations with several department directors who had been introduced to a wide array of businesses and services, prompting them to think creatively about integrating these fresh perspectives," said Nikko Contti, member of the Leadership Academy and Environmental Health Specialist in Durham County Department of Public Health. "There was so much enthusiasm from all parties at this event and I look forward to seeing what relationships are formed!"

MWBEs in Durham, interested in obtaining HUB certification, are invited to apply for the Certify & Succeed Program, a collaborative effort of Durham County Economic Development and community partner Infinity Bridges. The program assists businesses with the HUB certification process through one-on-one appointments offering support. Additionally, businesses can seek assistance from the North Carolina Department of Administration's Electronic Vendor Portal (EVP). The portal is designed to connect vendors with state government organizations that purchase goods and services. The NC HUB Office can also offer support.

Minority Economic Development (MED) Week 2024, hosted by Durham County and the City of Durham is coming soon and will offer participants the chance to learn about Historically Underutilized Businesses and access invaluable resources and training. The public is invited to mark their calendars for October 14-17, 2024, and lookout for more information to come about the event geared to celebrating all minority and women-owned businesses. This year's theme is Solidifying Our Next. This exciting week will feature a range of events designed to empower local businesses to reach the next level. Events include HUB Certification Day, a business fair, a luncheon, and more. Information about MED Week and how to register for events can be found at https://www.dconc.gov/county-departments/departments-f-z/supplier-diversity/med-week#ad-image-0.

For additional information about Durham County's HUB Vendor Meet and Greet of MED Week 2024, email Nadia Phillips at nphillips@dconc.gov.