On Wednesday, September 25, 2019, the U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), in collaboration with My Business Matches (MBM), launched the first-of-its-kind virtual matchmaker with the Federal agency, which included over 30 buyers and more than 400 Minority Business Enterprises. Future such events are also planned. This virtual event is designed to provide greater flexibility to all minority-owned firms, which contribute over $1.4 trillion in annual economic output to the U.S. economy, and directly account for more than 7.2 million U.S. jobs.
Jeff Vigil, President and CEO of My Business Matches said: “I’m so proud to be a part of an innovative and disruptive project. Using our technology to leverage small businesses and match them to relevant opportunities increases their chances in meeting with the best agency and and a better chance in closing a deal. Minority Business Enterprises from 22 states and Puerto Rico were able to secure more than 100 virtual meetings with upwards of 30 federal agencies, resulting in savings of over 165 work days and $63,164 on travel, lodging and other expenses. This groundbreaking virtual matchmaker is the most flexible, efficient, and economical way for suppliers and buyers already matched to their specific needs to meet. The results speak for themselves - Now, regardless of their geographical location, business owners never have to leave their office, saving tens of thousands of dollars in travel and productivity compared with a traditional face-to-face events.”
Andre Cadogan, a participating small business owner of Galt Group inc. said: “This is the best thing since the invention of the wheel! It’s a fantastic initiative - kudos to the MBDA team. I hope other agencies quickly adopt a similar approach to matchmaking. and look forward to participating again soon.”
The matchmaker is open to organizations that are owned or controlled by the following persons or groups of persons who are eligible to receive technical business assistance services from the MBDA Business Center Program: Hispanic American, African American, Asian American and Pacific Islander, Native American (including Alaska Natives, Alaska Native Corporations and Tribal entities), Asian Indian American, and Hasidic Jewish Americans.
To inquire about future events, visit www.mbda.gov
ABOUT My Business Matches:
My Business Matches (MBM) is a Veteran-Owned cloud based global business matchmaking solution that allows hosts to create Engagement portals, or conduct business matchmaking events. You control how matches are conducted and can schedule one-on-one or one-to-many meetings (virtually and/or in person), as well as track any business relationships that emerge. We have been used in over 100 countries, over 1.2 million users, and tracked over $15 billion in contracts awarded.
https://www.mybusinessmatches.com/home/
