City of Topeka partners with GO Topeka to host Supplier Diversity Workshop empowering small business owners

The City of Topeka and GO Topeka are joining forces to equip small business owners with the tools they need to succeed with the 2024 Supplier Diversity Workshop.

The Supplier Diversity Workshop will take place on November 13, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Bishop Professional Development Center, 3601 SW 31st St. The workshop is designed to empower small business owners by providing valuable insights into how to successfully do business with the government.

In addition to covering the essential steps for securing government contracts, the workshop will also include several panels that will cover topics such as: legal compliance, sound accounting practices, comprehensive insurance coverage, key elements for how to sustain and grow a business, and much more.

"We recognize that running a business requires a holistic approach," said Leigha Boling, division director of procurement and grant management for the City of Topeka. "This workshop is a way that we can help connect small, minority and disadvantaged business owners with the right resources and contacts for success."

Individuals interested in attending the Supplier Diversity Workshop should pre-register online. Breakfast and lunch will be provided for attendees. There will also be translation services available for Spanish speakers. Individuals needing translation services can find the registration form in Spanish on the city's website.

This event is a condensed version of the Supplier Diversity Expo that was hosted by the city earlier this year. The expo and workshop were both made free to attend due to a grant received from the National League of Cities (NLC) as a part of the City of Topeka's participation in the City Inclusive Entrepreneurship (CIE) program.