Government contracting summit helps small businesses get mission-ready
Press Release issued by: City of Fort Worth
Economic Development Department
Andrea.Duffie@fortworthtexas.gov
[FOR RELEASE ON AUG. 12, 2026] An upcoming summit will help small and veteran-owned businesses navigate the complex world of government procurement so they can better access and secure contracts at city, state, and federal levels.
It’s all part of the Mission-Ready Small Business Contracting Summit, which the City of Fort Worth is hosting in partnership with Shoppa’s Material Handling and the Lone Star Chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA).
The free event, which will be held in the Council Chambers at Fort Worth City Hall, will take place from 5:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, and is open to small business owners and veteran-owned businesses.
Registration is required to attend.
Participants will hear from a panel of industry experts who will provide practical guidance on:
· Procurement systems and how they work
· Different ways to find and pursue contracting opportunities with different agencies
· Certifications needed to participate in government contracting opportunities, and how to obtain them
· How to connect with prime subcontractors and government agencies
· Tips on how to submit strong, competitive bids for projects
The event will also include a presentation from Ashley Farrier, Director of the Office of Small Business Programs at U.S. Special Operations Command.
“Our team continues to champion Fort Worth’s small and veteran‑owned businesses, helping them connect with opportunities to grow,” said Ori Fernandez, Assistant Director of the City of Fort Worth’s Economic Development Department. “This year, we’ve also made small business contracting opportunities a major priority, because that’s a path forward for firms looking to expand and build capacity.
*** VCEO News Editor’s Note: The content above is a verbatim press release provided directly by the City of Fort Worth. The statements, facts, and opinions contained therein belong solely to the original issuer. VCEO Magazine has not modified the text except for basic formatting requirements. For official inquiries regarding this announcement, please contact the City of Fort Worth Media Department. ***
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