As part of its Small and Emerging Business initiative, the National Football League has underwritten a series of seminars and networking opportunities for Jacksonville’s small, minority-, and women-owned business community.
Developed and presented by the Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Center, three events will be held during January with guest speakers, panel discussions, Q&A sessions, light refreshments and door prizes provided by the NFL.
All are available at no cost and are open to the public. Space is limited and attendees must RSVP in advance. Each event addresses independent topics and need not be taken in conjunction with one another.
The NFL developed the Small and Emerging Business Program in 1994 to promote Super Bowl-related business opportunities to small, minority-, and woman-owned businesses. The long-term goal of the program is to help those businesses build relationships that could lead to long-term contracting.
The Jacksonville Super Bowl Host Committee, in cooperation with the City, recently completed its Business Resource Guide, an extensive directory of certified small, minority- or woman-owned businesses that provide the goods and services typically needed during a Super Bowl.
The guide is promoted to NFL contractors, affiliates, corporate sponsors and event planners. The upcoming seminars will provide the educational component to the Host Committee’s business outreach efforts.
Participation is by reservation only by calling Brigitte Cates at 924-1100, ext. 252. Seating is limited. Below is a synopsis of each program:
Doing Business After the Super Bowl
Representatives from both government (federal, state, and city) and private sectors discuss general procurement and purchasing practices on the way to securing long-term contracts.
When: Tuesday, January 11. 6-8 p.m.
Where: First Coast African-American Chamber of Commerce
1817-A Myrtle Avenue North
Information: Craig Austad, 924-1100, ext. 231,
Learning from the Pros:
Strategic Plays for Business Growth
Female community leaders, current and aspiring women entrepreneurs are invited to hear how a panel of accomplished women succeeded in business, government and non-profit sectors along with their personal experiences with NFL life. Sponsored by the Jacksonville Women’s Business Center.
When: Thursday, January 20. 6-8 p.m.
Where: Southpoint Marriott
Information: Sandy Bartow, 924-1100, ext. 224.
Polishing Your Image
Developing effective verbal and written skills when networking or presenting your company to prospective clients.
When: Thursday, January 27. 6-8 p.m.
Where: Small Business Center, 5000-3 Norwood Ave.
Information: Tanya Douglas, 924-1100, ext. 223.