January 13, 2014

2014 Supplier and Corporate Award Nominations  
Corporate Awards Nominations

It is time for MBEs to identify Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council (GNEMSDC) corporate members and their staff members who have exhibited outstanding efforts in developing business opportunities within their companies for council-certified MBEs.  It is also time for corporate members to nominate outstanding MBEs for Supplier of the Year Awards.  It is an honor to both corporate and MBE nominees. to be recognized by their customers and their peers.

The winners of these prestigious awards will be announced at our Annual Awards Banquet on Tuesday, May 06 at the Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, Connecticut

The following awards are open for nomination:
* Corporation of the Year (NMSDC National Member)
* Corporation of the Year (GNEMSDC Regional/Local Member)
* Buyer of the Year
* Advocate of the Year
* MBE Empowerment Award 

Please click on the following links to view forms:
2014 Corporate Award Nominations Form  
Growing to Scale Development Workshop
The Growing to Scale Workshop is a program for small business owners to expand and improve their businesses exponentially.  The workshop will deliver powerful strategies for increasing sales by joint ventures, strategic alliances; results based marketing and other proven strategies.  The Growing to Scale Development Workshop is the blueprint to grow your business quickly and safely. Gain knowledge from a faculty that has actually grown successful businesses and can help you grow yours.  
 
The Growing to Scale program will run for two and half days from Tuesday, February 18 through Thursday February 20.  The program will take place at our MBE Training Room at 333 State Street in Bridgeport, CT.  Please mark your calendars.  Learn more here.   
MassGaming Commission
Please view blog article from Commissioner Bruce Stebbins: MassGaming establishes a 'Vendor Advisory Team' to assist local entrepreneurs to successfully prepare for casino gaming - See more at:http://massgaming.com/blog-post/from-commissioner-bruce-stebbins-massgaming-establishes-a-vendor-advisory-team-to-assist-local-entrepeneurs-to-successfully-prepare-for-casino-gaming/#sthash.1ZzU85Wq.dpuf

1st GNEMSDC Quarterly Meeting
On Wednesday February 5th, 2014, Aetna will host the quarterly meeting at their location at 151 Farmington Ave, Hartford CT 06156 from 1:00 pm- 4:30 pm. Please arrive early. Aetna is a secure facility and you will need to show a valid form of identification when you check in. Please register early.  If you are interested in attending, please email jclarke@gnemsdc and provide your name and company.  Registration will close Wednesday January 30, 2014. For security reasons there will be no on-site registration
MBE Pre-Certification Webinar
The MBE Pre-Certification Webinar will be hosted on February 4, at 2:00 pm
GNEMSDC is offering a FREE Education seminar for applicants interested in becoming a certified Minority Business Enterprise via the NMSDC/GNEMSDC Certification Process.  This session is held via an online webinar call.   Please email Jennifer Little-Greer at jlittle-greer@gnemsdc.org  for the details.  The registration for the call will close at 1:00 pm on the day of the call.
CEO Roundtable Discussion
The Minority Business Development Agency Business Center is organizing a CEO Roundtable Discussion on January 23, 2014 from 8:30 am to 10:30 am at 2 Copley Place, 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02116.  Please view the invitation 

Learn more here.
Opportunity In Greater Boston
Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation and CropCircle Kitchen have teamed up to redevelop a former meat packing facility in Dorchester into the Pearl Food Production Center.This 36,000 square-foot, single-story building will con­tain three types of food production spaces: (1) a shared commercial kitchen run by CropCircle Kitchen; (2) a food truck commissary kitchen also run by CropCircle Kitchen; (3) 7 to 8 separate spaces for lease by food busi­nesses in a mezzanine stage of growth. Pearl is now seeking food business tenants for all three space types.Pearl will open for business in April 2014and tenants should be able to move in and begin production in April 2014.

To learn more about the project and to start an application, visit:

Upcoming Events 
There are several events coming up on our calendar that are designed specifically for MBEs to learn about corporate opportunities.    We know how busy everyone's schedule is, but these are events often hosted by our corporate members with the expressed purpose of finding out more about you and your business with the ultimate aim, to make you a valuable supplier to their companies.  Here are some events you should consider: 
  • January 14, 2014 - Workshops in Business Opportunities (WIBO) of Bridgeport, CT entrepreneurs graduation ceremony at Vazzy's of Bridgeport 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  Dr. Fred is the Graduation Speaker.  For more information call FSW 203-368-4291.
  • January 23, 2014 - MBE CEO Roundtable at 2 Copley Place, Boston, MA - 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
  • February 4, 2014 - Pre-Certification Webinar 2:00 PM - for more information contact Jennifer Little-Greer 203-288-9744.
  • February 5, 2014 - GNEMSDC Quarterly Meeting at Aetna in Hartford, CT - 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Come and learn about doing business with Aetna, one of the largest insurance companies in the world.  This event is specifically designed for certified MBEs. Please register by calling 203-288-9744.  
  • February 18-20 - "Growing to Scale" MBE Education program to take place at the MBE Training Center at 333 State Street Bridgeport CT.  The Growing to Scale Workshop is a two and half day program that will help MBEs become more profitable.  In addition the second day will focus on the important topic of strategic alliances and acquisitions.  Save the Dates!  More to follow.
     
  • May 6, 2014 - GNEMSDC Annual Awards Gala, Aqua Turf, Southington CT
  • June 9, 2014- GNEMSDC MA Golf Outing, Ferncroft Country Club, Danvers MA
  • July 11, 2014- GNEMSDC CT Golf Outing, Lyman Orchards, Middleton, CT
  • September 30-October 1, 2014- GNEMSDC Expo and Conference, Mohegan Sun Casino and Resort, Uncasville, CT
Invitations for Bid  and RFPs
  • The MBDA has a large and significant opportunity for MBEs that are also HUB Zone Businesses with a Federal Agency.  If you have HUB Zone certification or you can partner with a HUB Zone business contact Warren Bacon at 617-986-6366.  Information on  Federal opportunities is a great reason to become a MBDA client in our Boston and Bridgeport Center.  Below is a list of the opportunities sought by NAICS Codes: 
    • 541512
    • 237990
    • 541611
    • 541620
    • 561110
    • 561210
    • 562910
    • 541330
    • 518210
    • 541690
  • Invitation for Bid 
  • Invitation for Bid, Project Name: Turner Construction
  • Invitation for Bid, Project Name: Turner Construction  
  • Invitation for bid, Project Name: Turner Construction 
  • Invitation for bid, Project Name: Turner Construction 
  • Invitation to bid, Project Name:  Sasco Creek/Hidden Brook Housing
    Location:1655 Post Road East, Westport, CT                                                
    New Construction:  
    13 New Multi- Unit wood framed Residential Buildings and Community Building.  Construction will be in two phases.  Base bid no wage rates, provide add alternate for residential wage rates.  Bid Packages:  Sitework, Asphalt Paving, Sidewalks, Fencing, Landscaping, Concrete, Masonry, Rough Carpentry, Finish Carpentry, Insulation, Roofing, Siding, Gutters, Doors & Hardware, Windows, Drywall, Flooring, Paint, Cabinets, Window Blinds, Plumbing, Fire Protection, HVAC, and Electrical.  Bids can be faxed to 203-881-8372 or emailed to the following            Contact:    
    Dawn Lang, Bid Coordinator,    dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com   203-888-8124  
  • Invitation to bid for Deconstruction Training for Residents of the Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport, and Request for Proposal (RFP) 
  • CT Lottery Bid -Submission Requirements
  • CT Lottery has an RFP for drawing services
More Opportunities
  • The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Request for Proposals (RFP)
    Security Consultant Services, Solicitation Number: 054-PD-13-S.  
    The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport (HACB) is currently seeking Request for Proposals from qualified Security Consultants. Proposals will be received until January 20, 2014 @ 3:00 PM.  A pre-proposal conference will be held at 150 Highland Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604 on January 9, 2014, @ 9:00 a.m.  Although attendance is not mandatory, submitting a proposal without attending conference is not in the best interest of HACB.  A complete copy of the solicitation can be obtained from the Contracting Office at 150 Highland Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604 beginning on December 23, 2013 @ 1:00 p.m. Additional questions should be emailed only to Caroline Sanchez at: bids@bridgeporthousing.org  no later than January 13, 2014 @ 3:00 p.m.  All answers to the on BHA's Website: www.bridgeporthousing.org.  Please visit our website for contracting opportunities.
  • The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Request for Proposal (RFP)
    Computer Training Services, Solicitation Number:  059-RS-13-S.   
    The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport (HACB) is currently seeking proposals from computer training firms and/or individuals to assist HACB in providing computer training to public housing authority residents. All proposals are to be submitted on JANUARY 20, 2014 @ 3:00 PM Local Time. A pre-proposal conference will be held at 150 HIGHLAND AVE, BRIDGEPORT, CT 06604 JANUARY 9, 2014, @ 10:00 a.m. Although attendance is not mandatory, submitting a proposal for the project without attending conference is not in the best interest of HACB. A complete copy of the Solicitation may be obtained from the Executive Office at 150 Highland Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604 beginning on December 23, 2013 @ 1:00 p.m. Additional questions should be emailed only to Caroline Sanchez at, bids@bridgeporthousing.org no later than January 13, 2014 @ 3:00 p.m. All answers to the questions will be posted on HACB's Website: www.bridgeporthousing.org. Please visit our website for contracting opportunities.

  • Department of Transportation has a job opportunity for Transportation Public Assistant Administrator.  The position salary range is: $106,646 to $145,407 annual.  The closing date is December 20, 2013.  Interested candidates must apply for the position by sending a cover letter, resume, CT State application (CT-HR-12), and CT State employees must include their last two performance evaluations to:  Doreen Rossi, Principal Human Resources Specialist, Department of Transportation by email at doreen.rossi@ct.gov, or by fax at 860-594-3369.  Learn more here.
  • Haynes Construction is and AA/EEO Employer and is seeking candidates for the following open positions: 
    • Project Manager
    • Project Superintendent
    • Construction Estimator
              Full benefits including medical/vision/dental/life and 401(k).  Learn more here. 
              Send resume to mroy@haynes-group.com.  For any questions, please contact this office.
  • Xpedx International Paper is an Equal Opportunity Employer and currently has 2 openings in their Wilmington, MA facility.  Those interested in job opportunity should apply online at:www.xpedx.com
    • Warehouse Worker 2nd Shift
    • Truck Driver
  • CT Lottery Corporation has openings for the following positions:
    • Lottery Sales Representative 1 
      Location: Various statewide
      Salary: $48,487.00 starting annual salary                                                                                             Only those CLC applications received by Friday, December 20, 2013, close of business will be considered.  Learn more here. 
    • Administrative Assistant (Office Management)
      Salary: $50,838.00 starting annual salary.                                                                                      Only those CLC applications received by Friday, December 20, 2013, close of business will be considered.  Learn more here.   
  • Interested candidates for each position must submit a CLC application, available at www.ctlottery.org, along with a cover letter and resume to: Connecticut Lottery Corporation, Human Resources, 777 Brook Street, Rocky Hill, CT 06067; faxed to (860) 713-2670; or e-mail to HR@ctlottery.org. 
FYI
And Finally...
Last week I covered a major change in the NMSDC network that will impact what were formerly called reciprocal MBEs.  As a result of those NMSDC changes, we now will offer any MBE certified by another regional affiliate of the NMSDC a set of services that provide value to them.  We will be communicating by email to these former reciprocals this week by mail and email.  But as I stated last week, this change is one of many significant changes in the NMSDC network.

Another major change is the number of regional affiliates of the NMSDC network.  As of January 1, 2014, there are 24 regional affiliates of the NMSDC. This is down from 36 in 2013.  This consolidation of regional affiliates has a goal of creating stronger, more sustainable affiliates with the capacity to better serve both corporate members and certified MBEs.  The GNEMSDC was spared any consolidation because we had effectively merged the CMSDC with the NEMSDC in 2009 to become the GNEMSDC.  So in many respects, we were ahead of the game.   The NMSDC hopes to learn from our successful integration of two affiliates into one affiliate. But knowing what I know about our experience, just rearranging regions does not guarantee success.  All of these changes will require dedicated work from staffs, boards, corporate members, MBEs and the NMSDC in order to make these strategic changes effective.

The regional councils that were impacted included the following changes:
  1. The Nevada Council was merged into the Northern California Council
  2. The San Diego Council was merged into the Arizona Council
  3. The Alabama and the Arkansas/Mississippi Councils were merged into the Louisiana Council
  4. The Saint Louis Council was merged into the Indiana Council
  5. All of the Ohio Councils were merged into one Ohio Council
  6. The Kentucky Council was merged into the Tennessee Council
  7. The two Pennsylvania Councils were merged into one Council covering all of PA, DE and Southern New Jersey
  8. The Kansas City Council was merged into the Denver Council
  9. The Wisconsin Council was merged into the Minnesota Council
  10. Northern Virginia was merged into the Washington DC/Maryland Council
  11. Several of the western states were merged into the Northwest Seattle based Council
  12. The Oklahoma Council was merged into the San Antonio based Council
There will be new names for all of these newly enlarged councils to reflect their greater geographic reach, so stay tuned.  

MBEs in these new regional councils are welcome to participate in the GNEMSDC, not as reciprocals, but as subscribers.  MBEs from these new councils or any of our geographically unaffected councils will have access to our local corporate members as well as a host of services outlined in last week's newsletter.  If you are interested in participating with the GNEMSDC, contact, Jerilynn Clarke at 203-288-9744 or jclarke@gnemsdc.org.

Local and national corporate members from these regions are also welcome to participate in the GNEMSDC.  We are here to serve.  

Next week I will address how the recent NMSDC changes are likely to impact our local corporate members and NMSDC members who are located in our region.  Again, stay tuned.


In your service

Dr. Fred
Fred