MMBEC Sponsors West Michigan Business to Business Session for ARRA Contract Opportunities

Grand Rapids, Michigan (November 10, 2009) The Michigan Minority Business Enterprise Center (MMBEC) will host a Business to Business Outreach session at Grand Valley State University. This session will help increase minority business access to contracting opportunities through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) provide supplemental appropriations for job preservation and creation, infrastructure investment, energy efficiency and science, assistance to the unemployed, and State and local fiscal stabilization. In Michigan, this translates into grants in several key areas: Economic Development, Education and Research, Energy, Environment, Human Services, Infrastructure, Jobs and Job Training, Public Safety, Technology, and Vibrant Communities.

On Friday, November 13, 2009, MMBEC will provide insight on how minority businesses can secure contracts through the ARRA at Grand Valley State University in the Richard M. DeVos Center; Loosemore Auditorium‐Bldg E, Room 122.

Hari Alibasic, Assistant to the City Manger of City of Grand Rapids and Laura Huizinga, General Manger of C. Slagter Construction, will present ARRA contract opportunities in West Michigan.

“ARRA contracts represent an amazing opportunity for the outstanding minority businesses in West Michigan.” These businesses are ready with innovative solutions and will work diligently to help Michigan’s economic recovery,” said Joseph Garcia of MMBEC.

MMBEC grant is operated by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC). MMSDC is a non‐profit organization.

About MMBEC
Michigan MBEC (Center) is funded by the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and operated by the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC). The purpose of the Center is to serve the "rapid growth‐potential minority businesses" and minority firms with $500,000 or more in annual revenue within the state of Michigan through the provision of business assistance, strategic partnerships, and strategic business consulting.

About MMSDC
Founded in 1977, the Michigan Minority Supplier Diversity Council (MMSDC) was formerly known as the Michigan Minority Business Development Council (MMBDC). MMSDC is a 501(c)(3) non‐profit organization with more than 1,300 certified minority businesses and over 400 corporate members working to further its mission to certify minority businesses; provide access to procurement opportunities; and develop capacity for minority business development. The MMSDC was recognized by the National Minority Supplier Development Council as “Council of the Year” for its work with major corporations to promote minority business development and growth. Visit the MMSDC’s website at www.mmbdc.com.