The state of Illinois will host a resource and networking event Friday in Aurora geared toward promoting the economic growth of small and diverse businesses.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, June 5, at Waubonsee Community College’s Aurora Campus, 18 S. River St., Aurora, IL 60506-4134. The goal is to increase the number of state certified vendors by providing small and diverse entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources used to participate in the state’s procurement and contracting processes.

The Make a Connection: “Connecting Communities to Illinois Business Opportunities” event is open to the public at no cost.

It is hosted by the Illinois Department of Central Management Services’ Business Enterprise Program in collaboration with the Kane County Board, Congressman Bill Foster, state Sen. Linda Holmes, state Reps. Stephanie Kifowit and Linda Chapa-LaVia, Aurora Mayor Tom Wesisner, Seize the Future Development Foundation, and the Small Business Development Center at Waubonsee Community College.

“This upcoming Business Enterprise Program event provides an excellent opportunity for Aurora and its surrounding communities to learn about doing business with the state of Illinois,” said CMS Director Tom Tyrrell. “Our hope is that the event will bring area entrepreneurs, business owners, and key stakeholders together to lay the foundation for successful relationships that will help them grow dynamically.”

Workshop presentation topics include the Illinois Business Enterprise Program, which promotes the economic development of businesses owned by minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and veterans through its certification program; the Chief Procurement office on the process for contracting with the state; and the Procurement Technical Assistance Center for one-on-one guidance. Booth exhibitors of other state and local resources will also be on hand to share information about their programs.

CMS hosts community outreach events throughout the year to foster an inclusive and competitive business environment that will help more businesses increase their capacity, grow revenue, and enhance credentials.

Registration for all CMS events is recommended. For more information and to register, visit www.CMS.Illinois.gov/Events.

SOURCE: state of Illinois press release