Onyx travels far and wide to seek business opportunities. Actually, just to Orlando to the 2008 MatchMaker Conference hosted by the Florida Office for Supplier Diversity. This event highlights Minority and Women-owned businesses throughout Florida – teaching them on how to work with the state, to capitalize on bids and contracts.

Kris and I set out Wednesday evening for the two-day event in Orlando, FL. Thursday morning came quickly and we found ourselves, eating breakfast with about 350 other business owners and employees looking to gain some insight on opportunities with state agencies. Shortly after breakfast we had our first workshop which went till lunch. Governor Charlie Crist spoke at the luncheon and  in the afternoon we set off to another workshop. Wrapping up the day with a reception was another great opportunity to network for fellow vendors and businesses.

On Friday, we manned the best looking booth there (no partiality here) meeting more state agencies, fellow exhibitors, and businesses. We met tons of great people and heard great stories also. I learned a lot about state procurement, and look forward to future opportunities. The MatchMaker Conference was definitely a success and we will be back next year.

Stay Sophisticated,

Nick Williams