Continuing our journey to connect with innovators and support small businesses, APEX recently participated in GACO's 35th Procurement Opportunities Fair, one of Pennsylvania's most longstanding government contracting networking events. Held on November 14, 2024, at the Monroeville Convention Center, this impactful event brought together regional businesses, government agencies, and prime contractors for a day of networking, training, and connection-building.
About GACO's Procurement Opportunities Fair
Hosted by the GACO APEX Accelerator at PennWest University California, this annual event provides a vital platform for fostering collaboration in government contracting. With over 60 exhibitor booths from federal, state, and local government agencies, attendees explored opportunities to secure contracts and participated in valuable training sessions designed to help businesses break into the government market.
The fair serves as a meeting point for innovators, small businesses, and government stakeholders, encouraging partnerships that can drive regional economic growth and support government priorities.
APEX's Role at the Event
At APEX, our mission is to connect innovators with the Department of the Air Force and accelerate technological advancements. Attending GACO's Procurement Opportunities Fair allowed us to:
- Network with Key Stakeholders: Through one-on-one interactions at our booth, APEX engaged with small businesses, government representatives, and industry leaders to share insights into navigating government contracting opportunities.
- Promote Process Navigation Services: APEX highlighted its expertise in SBIR/STTR programs and other funding opportunities, supporting businesses in accelerating their innovation journeys.
Expand Regional Presence: Participation reinforced APEX's presence in the government contracting ecosystem, particularly in Pennsylvania, a growing hub for innovation and defense-focused technologies.
Event Highlights
The day was packed with opportunities for attendees to connect and learn:
- Exhibitor Booths: Over 60 booths showcased resources and opportunities for businesses, hosted by federal, state, and local government agencies.
- Training Seminars: Sessions focused on navigating the government contracting space, including breaking into the market and understanding federal requirements.
- Networking Opportunities: Attendees had the chance to engage directly with key stakeholders and businesses in the government contracting ecosystem.
Key Takeaways for APEX
The GACO Procurement Opportunities Fair provided invaluable opportunities to further APEX's mission and engage with the regional innovation community:
- Building Relationships: APEX connected with a wide range of small businesses and stakeholders, forming the groundwork for future collaboration.
- Raising Awareness: By showcasing our Process Navigation services, APEX helped attendees understand how we can support their journeys in government contracting and defense innovation.
- Strengthening Regional Connections: Attending this high-profile event highlighted APEX's commitment to engaging with the Pennsylvania innovation ecosystem and fostering opportunities for collaboration.
- Expanding Visibility: Our participation solidified APEX's role as a trusted resource for businesses navigating government funding and contracting opportunities.
Looking Ahead
APEX is proud to have been part of GACO's 35th Procurement Opportunities Fair and looks forward to continuing to support businesses and innovators in navigating government contracting. Events like these are integral to APEX's mission of accelerating innovation and connecting the dots between small businesses, academia, and government stakeholders.
Stay tuned for more updates as APEX Across the Nation continues to highlight our outreach efforts, partnerships, and events across the country!