Overview
On Wednesday, June 5, 2024, GoVets had the privilege of participating in the highly anticipated CUNY 2024 MWBE | SDVOB Procurement Conference held at John Jay College in New York City. This annual event, renowned for its focus on Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOB), provided us with a unique opportunity to connect with a diverse array of businesses and key players within the CUNY purchasing landscape. Here’s a recap of our experience and the invaluable insights we gained from this vibrant event.
Setting Up and Preparing for the Day
Our day began bright and early at 7:15 AM as we set up our exhibit booth. Equipped with a 6-foot table and two chairs, our booth was strategically designed to be welcoming and informative. We displayed our latest offerings and services, showcasing GoVets’ commitment to supporting and empowering MWBE and SDVOB businesses through our comprehensive range of products.
By 10:00 AM, the exhibit hall was open, and we were ready to engage with attendees. The hall buzzed with energy as businesses from across New York gathered to explore new opportunities, forge partnerships, and discuss the challenges and successes in the procurement space.
Engaging with Ambitious NY Businesses
The conference was a hub of ambitious businesses eager to make their mark. We had the pleasure of meeting numerous entrepreneurs and representatives from various sectors. Each interaction was a learning experience, providing us with deeper insights into the needs and expectations of the CUNY purchasing community.
One recurring theme in our conversations was the challenge faced by many NY agencies and prime contractors in meeting their MWBE and SDVOB goals. It became evident that navigating the complex acquisition landscape to find opportunities throughout the city and state is a daunting task for many businesses. The feedback we received highlighted the need for persistence, dedication, and strategic networking to overcome these hurdles.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Connections
At GoVets, we understand the struggles that MWBE and SDVOB businesses face. We, too, started our journey feeling somewhat overwhelmed by the intricacies of the procurement process. However, our participation in events like the CUNY Procurement Conference has been transformative. These events have provided us with the platform to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations, fostering relationships that have proven to be invaluable.
It was inspiring to hear from other businesses about their experiences and how attending such events has been a game-changer for them. Sometimes, all it takes is a chance encounter at an event like this to spark new ideas and open doors to unforeseen opportunities. For us, these fortuitous meetings have led to increased brand recognition, more familiar faces, deeper connections, and, most importantly, more bid invitations, purchase orders, and contracts.
The ROI of Face-to-Face Events
Participating in the CUNY 2024 MWBE | SDVOB Procurement Conference reinforced the importance of face-to-face interactions. As entrepreneurs and small business owners, it's easy to get sidetracked by various tasks that may not directly contribute to our growth. However, attending these events reminds us of what truly matters – building meaningful connections and staying focused on our goals.
The return on investment (ROI) from these face-to-face events is undeniable. For GoVets, it has meant greater visibility within the industry, stronger relationships with partners and clients, and a clearer understanding of the market dynamics. The conference was a reminder of why we do what we do and the impact we can make by actively participating in such events.
Looking Ahead
The CUNY 2024 MWBE | SDVOB Procurement Conference was a resounding success for GoVets. We left the event feeling invigorated and optimistic about the future. The connections we made and the insights we gained will undoubtedly shape our strategies moving forward.
We are committed to continuing our participation in similar events, knowing that each one brings us closer to our goals. As we reflect on our experience, we are grateful for the opportunity to engage with so many passionate and driven businesses. The conference has not only expanded our network but also reaffirmed our belief in the power of collaboration and perseverance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CUNY 2024 MWBE | SDVOB Procurement Conference was more than just an event – it was a catalyst for growth and innovation. At GoVets, we are dedicated to supporting MWBE and SDVOB businesses, and events like this provide the perfect platform to do so. We look forward to future opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside the dynamic businesses that make up the CUNY community.
Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and shared their stories with us. We are excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we can achieve great things and make a significant impact in the procurement landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates from GoVets as we continue our journey of growth, innovation, and collaboration.
