Presidents and CEOs of small corporations attended Commissioner Barbara Jordan’s Small Business Certification Workshop recently in hopes of qualifying to receive County contracts.
The informative event, held at Florida Memorial University, was developed to attract companies that would not otherwise qualify to bid on contracts for vital county projects.
“Miami-Dade County is in the process of responding to a Consent Decree, which essentially mandates us to upgrade the underground pipes that carry our waste water and sewage,” said Jordan. “Many of these pipes have been in place for more than 50 years. This is a mammoth project and we will need all hands on deck.”
In addition to Miami-Dade County, a representative from Sun Life Stadium was on-hand hoping to identify small businesses that could help renovate the home of the Miami Dolphins.
“I have been tapped to ensure inclusion of small-to-midsized companies,” said Marsha Jackman, who specializes in small business development. “The owners of Sun Life Stadium have made a commitment to the local community to utilize their resources and skilled labor during this process. I’m here to help reinforce their efforts.”
Attendees were excited about the opportunity to receive such contracts, especially since past contractual opportunities have eluded them.
“I attended the workshop and I thought it was very informative and helpful,” said Suzanne Boyd, founder and president of The Party Co., Inc. located in Miami Gardens. “I appreciate Commissioner Jordan making sure we are able to get a piece of the pie. You often wonder how these contracts come and go.”
For information regarding certification, email questions to the Office of Small Business Development at sbdmail@miamidade.gov.