Douglas County Chamber Hosts Inaugural ProcureConnect Summit, Empowering Small Businesses

On August 13, the Douglas County Chamber held the inaugural ProcureConnect Summit at Riverside EpiCenter. This groundbreaking event provided businesses with valuable contract opportunities and facilitated meaningful relationships with organizations focused on diversifying their supplier base.

The full-day event featured targeted programming, including panel discussions and breakout workshops designed to address the challenges faced by small businesses in navigating the procurement process. Industry leaders from various companies and government entities, including the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Douglas County School System, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Gilbane Building Company, State of Georgia, U.S. Small Business Administration, and Wellstar Health System, shared their expertise on procurement opportunities, contracting basics, upcoming trends, and overcoming challenges for small businesses. Attendees learned how to navigate both public and private sector procurement processes, position their businesses for success, and interact with dynamic panelists. They also had the opportunity to build partnerships with large corporations, state, and local governments.

A highlight of the event featured a unique opportunitiy for one-on-one meetings between attendees and VIP buyers. These sessions allowed entrepreneurs the opportunity to explore available contracts and access exclusive information, further strengthening connections and expanding potential opportunities. VIP companies included the Atlanta Regional Commission, Atlanta Gas Light, Douglas County Government, Georgia Power Company, Gilbane Building Company, Ralin, Southwire, Wellstar Health System, and the Douglasville-Douglas County Water and Sewer Authority.

Douglas County Chamber President & CEO, Sara Ray commented, ” The ProcureConnect Summit exemplified our commitment to providing businesses with the resources, partnerships and opportunities needed to THRIVE. Our goal is to not only have businesses succeed in Douglas County but to create endless opportunities for growth across the region. This summit was a testament to that mission, connecting our businesses with invaluable resources and partnerships. With our proximity to Metro Atlanta and the presence of major corporations nearby, we were excited to create a space where businesses could learn, grow, and scale.”

For questions about the event and future opportunities, please visit ProcureConnect.org and our Chamber website at www.douglascountygeorgia.com or contact the Douglas Chamber at 770.942.5022.