The Department of Economic Development of Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot counties are sponsoring a seminar called Government Contracting 101, a basic primer in the programs and resources available to assist small businesses in the competitive bidding process. The seminar will be on Friday, April 24, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This seminar is designed for small business owners interested in marketing their products, goods and services to local, state and federal agencies and those not yet certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE)/ Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) or for any small business interested in participating in the Small Business Reserve (SBR) program. The seminar will provide an overview of the competitive marketing programs available to give greater market exposure to qualifying businesses. Tips on navigating the MBE/DBE certification and SBR registration will be provided, as well as an in depth discussion on the qualification criteria and process for those considering becoming certified.

Representatives from the Maryland Department of Transportation, Maryland General Services and the Maryland Small Business Development Center will be presenting small business owners with an overview of the MBE/DBE programs and the SBR program and providing information on the advantages of becoming certified.

The seminar will be held at 160 Coursevall Drive in Centreville. The $10 registration fee includes lunch. Space is limited to the first 50 registrants. For more information and to reserve a spot contact Augustine Cook at 410-810-2238 or via electronic mail at acook@kentgov.org.