2024 Launch of the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s (OSDBU) 50 States Initiative
Launch of the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) 50 States Initiative, Hosted by Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia
The Virginia Diverse Chamber of Commerce is excited to highlight the successful event held on September 24, 2024, at Shenandoah University in Winchester, VA, organized by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). This pivotal gathering focused on the launch of the 50 States Initiative, aimed at creating robust opportunities for small businesses in underserved communities.
The Virginia Diverse Chamber of Commerce proudly participated alongside key federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Education, Veteran’s Administration, General Services Administration, U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the SBA Regional Office.
A key highlight of the day was the recognition and celebratory announcement of the 50 States Initiative, which marks a significant step toward empowering small business growth and enhancing the federal government’s ability to meet its small business goals.
The event featured Melissa “Lisa” Oliva, Deputy Director/Senior Business Advisor, and Jayne C. Gold, Business Analyst, from the Department of the Treasury, along with Dr. Tracy Fitzsimmons, President of Shenandoah University. Their presence emphasized the importance of collaboration between federal agencies and educational institutions in supporting small business initiatives.
The event attracted over 400 attendees, including women, minority, and small disadvantaged businesses eager to explore new opportunities. Prime and subcontractors were present to forge partnerships with small businesses, while students engaged in enriching discussions and networking opportunities with agencies, faculty, and businesses. The atmosphere was friendly and enthusiastic, fostering a spirit of collaboration and connection.
The primary objective of this gathering was to provide the OSDBU with insights into federal procurement spending profiles, categorized by NAICs codes and socioeconomic factors. This data is crucial for identifying areas with the highest number of contractual awards, enabling the federal government to better understand the current landscape and pinpoint opportunities for impactful partnerships with small businesses.
Heartfelt gratitude goes to the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Small Business Utilization for their outstanding leadership and support in organizing this event, as well as to Shenandoah University for hosting such an engaging gathering.
The Virginia Diverse Chamber of Commerce was proud to have at this important event. Our mission continues to focus on empowering and supporting the growth of small, women, and diverse-owned businesses.
Opportunities like this are vital for these enterprises to contribute valuable insights, gain education, and explore potential contracting opportunities with federal agencies.
We are grateful to everyone who participated and contributed to the event’s success, and we look forward to more opportunities to uplift our diverse business community.
