In today’s dynamic economic and contracting environment, depending on a single client, sector, or offering is risky. This keynote will start the conference by exploring how successful companies embrace diversification to create stronger, more resilient business models. Attendees will hear how others have expanded into new markets, evolved their offerings, or leveraged certifications to diversify and protect their bottom line.

Takeaways:

• Recognize the risks of limited revenue streams and over-reliance on single contracts
• Learn practical strategies for diversification across sectors and client types
• Explore case studies of businesses that successfully repositioned for growth
• Begin to reflect on how your business might evolve to reduce risk and increase reach

Landing corporate clients can transform your business—but navigating the process to become a trusted vendor or supplier isn’t always clear. This panel features supplier diversity leaders, procurement executives, and small business advocates from leading corporations who will share what they look for in vendors, how sourcing decisions are made, and how small and diverse businesses can stand out and scale inside the corporate supply chain.

Whether you're just starting to pursue corporate clients or looking to deepen existing partnerships, this conversation will offer real-world insight and actionable tips to help you prepare, present, and partner more effectively.

Takeaways:

• Understand what corporate buyers value in small and diverse suppliers
• Learn how to get certified, registered, and found in supplier portals
• Discover common barriers—and how successful businesses overcame them
• Hear how corporations identify, vet, and grow their small business vendors
• Gain clarity on how to prepare your capability statement and pitch for B2B partnerships

This panel session will feature procurement officials from up to three states. It will explore how to become certified and visible in state systems, how to build relationships with agency buyers, and how to access upcoming contracts that fit small and diverse businesses.

Takeaways:

• Understand the nuances of state vs. federal procurement processes
• Learn how to navigate vendor registration, certifications, and portals
• Hear firsthand from agency buyers on upcoming priorities and procurement needs

The federal procurement landscape is shifting to include refinements to the acquisition lifecycle, procurement policies, and contracting approaches. The Federal Acquisition Regulations are in the process of being overhauled, with some revisions in effect, and others taking effect years down the road (the current FAR will sunset four years after the new rules are finalized). This session features strategic insights about where the market is, where it is headed, and what business leaders need to know to better align themselves with agency needs and requirements, and understand how to stay on pace with how agencies are buying today.

Takeaways:

• Understand the trends shaping federal acquisition and funding
• Identify which contract vehicles best align with your offerings and goals
• Learn how to assess your business’s readiness and position for future solicitations

Pricing in government contracts is both a science and an art. This session breaks down how to build cost structures that are compliant, competitive, and profitable—while avoiding common pitfalls such as underbidding or misallocating indirect rates.

Takeaways:

• Understand the difference between pricing and costing in federal bids
• Learn how to calculate direct and indirect rates, including burdened labor
• Receive tools to assess profitability while staying price competitive

Winning commercial proposals must speak directly to client needs, pain points, and outcomes. This session will show attendees how to turn a capabilities document or pitch deck into a persuasive tool that drives decisions.

Takeaways:

• Learn the structure of a persuasive, outcome-oriented proposal
• Practice tailoring language to client goals and buying drivers
• Avoid fluff, jargon, and generic copy that weakens your message

Entering international markets can be a game-changing opportunity—but one that requires clarity around legal, regulatory, and operational requirements. This 101-level session will offer a step-by-step overview of how businesses can explore global trade, export services or products, and build cross-border partnerships.

Takeaways:

• Understand the basics of global business, including legal and trade considerations
• Learn about export requirements, foreign certifications, and payment protections
• Explore support resources like EXIM Bank, USTDA, and SBA’s export assistance programs
• Assess whether your business is ready—and what’s needed to get there

This presentation empowers business owners to understand why knowing the true value of their business is essential for long-term success -particularly as a foundation to an effective business and future income plan. Attendees will learn how accurate business valuation forms the foundation for effective succession, retirement, and estate planning, and discover the pitfalls of relying on emotional or self-assessed figures. The presentation covers proven valuation methods, the importance of intangible assets, and strategies to maximize business value. By attending, business owners will gain actionable insights to overcome common planning barriers, protect their legacy, and make informed decisions that secure their financial future and the future of their business.

Takeaways:

• Safeguard First: Build your financial shield with practical tools to strengthen reserves and reduce risk.
• Preserve Wisely: Stay steady under pressure by rebalancing and protecting what you’ve worked hard to build.
• Position for Growth: Turn challenge into opportunity by learning how to invest smartly, expand skills, and embrace entrepreneurship.
• Stay Resilient & Ready: Create flexibility with diverse income streams and a mindset prepared to seize the moment.

Energy and utilities operate at the intersection of public service and private opportunity. Whether they keep the lights on, power cities, connect communities, or provide critical care, these organizations represent billions of dollars in yearly procurement.  This panel brings together procurement leaders and supplier diversity officers from energy and infrastructure sectors to share how they source vendors, their procurement processes, and how diverse and small businesses can get in the door. Attendees will gain practical insights on where opportunities exist, how to navigate registration and relationship-building, and what upcoming priorities mean for businesses in construction, professional services, energy, IT, and facilities support.

Takeaways:

• Understand how procurement works within energy and infrastructure providers, 
• Learn how these processes differ from federal/state procurement and where to find opportunities
• Explore current and upcoming needs across sectors 
• Get tips on becoming a registered vendor and building meaningful relationships with buyers
• Hear about supplier diversity initiatives and strategies to position your firm successfully
   

Bring your toughest pricing questions to this interactive session, where seasoned pricing experts will provide real-time answers and practical advice. Whether you’re struggling with building competitive rates, balancing compliance with profit, or understanding what the client really looks for in cost proposals, this is your chance to get clarity and confidence.

Takeaways:

• Gain clarity on the most common pricing pitfalls contractors face when preparing quotes and proposals.
• Learn practical strategies to develop competitive and compliant pricing that protects profit margins.
• Understand client expectations for cost realism, reasonableness, and transparency in pricing.
• Action steps they can immediately apply to strengthen their next bid or quote.

A strong technical response isn’t enough. Winning proposals tell a clear, client-focused story that answers the “why you” question. This hands-on session will guide attendees in crafting compelling win themes that elevate their proposals and resonate with evaluators.

Takeaways:

• Learn how to identify and craft win themes that differentiate your proposal
• Practice aligning solutions with agency mission and pain points
• Gain actionable feedback to strengthen your messaging and narrative