LOOKING AHEADCHICAGO’s 45thBUSINESS OPPORTUNITY FAIR

HIll mOrGAnSHElIAEXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

PrESIDEnT CHICAGO MINORITY SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

NEW WAYS TODEVElOP YOUr BUSInESS

SPrInG 2012

nCAIEDrES2012ThE PREmIER AmERIcAN INdIANEcONOmIc & BUSINESSdEvElOPmENT cONFERENcE

WBE SPOnSOr

PROFILES

Welcome to the Spring Issue —A Time of RevivalSpring is an annual renaissance of sorts, and just as plants flourish and begin anew, so does the world of business.

This spring will see several major supplier diversity events: the USHCC Legislative Summit, WBENC Summit and Salute, NCAIED Reservation Economic Summit (RES), and local events with a major national impact, like the Chicago Business Opportunity Fair (CBOF). Even if you cannot personally attend these events, we want to share the experience and provide information about the great organizations that host these events.

This issue includes an overview and history of several of these important supplier diversity events, as well as business development tips to enhance your business in preparation for these occasions. Supplier diversity conferences and conventions offer a great deal in the way of opportunity and business development for MBEs. Face-to-face networking, for example, is one of the most valuable resources available to MBEs at these events, but also a time when basic mistakes can occur. Taking advantage of these opportunities while putting your best foot forward can take your business to the next level.

We are always pleased to work with new organizations and bring the latest news and events to MBEConnect Profiles magazine readers. Organizations are an integral part of the supplier diversity community and offer business opportunities as well as chances for improvement and growth. Through our involvement with supplier diversity organizations, we are able to reach more minority- and women owned-businesses and build a stronger, more-focused supplier diversity community, leading to a better business environment for all. - The MBEConnect Team

from the mbeconnect team...

4 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

EditorEric W. Harland

Staff WriterCaroline Knecht

DesignersEfrem DuranKatie Starks

Profiles CoordinatorCaress Gonzales

Sales ExecutivesRonald Harland

Digital PrepressLeo Morton

iPad/iPhone Production Efrem Duran/Eric W. Harland

WBE SponsorOverture Premiums & Promotions

ContactMBEConnect Profiles is a publication of MBEConnect. If you have any questions about one of our publications, please contact us at 1.913.742.8166 or e-mail us atinfo@mbeconnect.com.

This magazine is available online at www.mbeconnectmagazine.com and iTunes.com

PODCAST lISTEnErSlisten in each week for the Supplier Diversity Podcast

In this IssueWelcome to the Spring Issue ........................................P.03

22nd Annual legislative Summit .............................P.06

mBEConnect ProfilesAmaxra ............................................................................................P.08

Cano Container Corporation ...................................................P.10

Chicago Mini Bus Travel ............................................................P.12

Basic Business Elements .................................................P.15

Infante Zumpano ........................................................................P.20

McDaniel Hazley Group ............................................................P.22

Overture Premiums & Promotions ........................................P.24

nCAIED leading the way for American IndianEntrepreneurs .........................................................................P.26

Supplier Diversity Spotlight: nestlé .......................P.29

Ruiz Strategies ..............................................................................P.30

Stafflogix .........................................................................................P.32

Synico ..............................................................................................P.34

Chicago’s 45th Business Opportunity Fair .........P.36

Organization ProfilesHouston Hispanic Chamber ....................................................P.40

Southwest MSDC .........................................................................P.42

WBC - Southwest .........................................................................P.44

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Now in its 22nd year, this three-day event brings together the Hispanic-owned business community and key figures from Capitol Hill to address concerns and work toward sustainability and growth.

Each year, the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) holds a Legislative Summit, an important event focused on bringing change and opportunities to Hispanic-owned businesses. Scheduled events span across several days and include workshops and matchmaking sessions in addition to Hill Day. A tradition for 22 years, the 2012 event is being held March 21 – 23 in Washington, D.C. The primary purpose of the Legislative Summit is to address the wants and needs of Hispanic-owned businesses directly to elected officials and political appointees. While the USHCC applauds various federal departments and agencies for meeting and exceeding their minority procurement goals, there is still room for growth and change in the Hispanic business community. Chamber mem-

bers, business leaders and corporate executives work together to identify key issues facing America’s small business community and bring them to the Legislative Summit. Members of Capitol Hill also meet with Summit attendees to discuss these issues and to respond with their initiatives and actions. The Legislative Summit enables the USHCC, affiliate chapters and Chamber members from across the country to come together as a uni-fied voice. Just how powerful is this voice? Hispanic-owned businesses are the fastest growing segment of minority enterprise and as such, play a major role in economic growth and recovery. Currently, over 3.5 million existing Hispanic-owned businesses generate $420 billion in sales annually. This figure will increase significantly in coming years as Hispanics start new business ventures at a rate three times greater than the general population. Despite this growth, the Hispanic business community experiences disproportionately negative effects resulting from the financial crisis, placing extra emphasis on legislation

22ndAnnuAluSHCC legiSlAtive

Summit

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

and policies as a means of support and strength. Key issues facing the Hispanic business community that will be addressed during the Legislative Summit include entitlement reform, tax structure, deregulation, and federal funding. Here Hispanic entrepreneurs and government agencies work to-wards a common goal of an inclusive business model that can lead to economic growth and prosperity. Ultimately, this can ensure that small businesses across the country are sustainable and strong contributors to the economy. Hill Day, the focal point of the Legislative Summit events, will be held on March 22, 2012. During this time, registered Hispanic Chamber affiliates have scheduled meetings with senior leadership and thought leaders on Capitol Hill. Discussions in these meetings will include information about their Chamber and their legisla-tive priorities. A Luncheon on the Hill event is also scheduled, where members of Congress will discuss their work to promote the wants and needs of the Hispanic small business com-munity. At the Luncheon on the Hill, Members of Congress will address attendees about their efforts to promote the interests and needs of Hispanic small business owners. While the main focus of the Leg-islative Summit is Hill Day, there are several scheduled events concentrated on business networking for HBEs and corporate executives. This year will feature more training opportunities, workshops and roundtable discussions than ever before. An impressive list of past Legislative Summit speakers includes Speaker of the House John Boehner, MBDA director David Hinson, U.S. Senator Harry Reid, U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, and U.S. Congress-woman Judy Chu.

Federal matchmaking sessions will offer an opportunity to engage with procurement officials from a wide range of government agencies looking to fulfill contracts. Scheduled workshops include Manufacturing in the 21st Century, Improving Access to Capital, U.S. Leadership in the Global Food Economy, and Building Amer-ica’s Communication Infrastructure, among others. Even the scheduled dining and networking events will provide important interaction with some of Washington’s most influential shapers of policy. The Leadership for America’s Future Reception will bring together Legislative Summit attendees with important figures from Capitol Hill. Members of Congress and Adminis-tration officials will address those in attendance to spark a constructive conversation over Hispanic business in America and provide insight on how to proceed for a more strengthened, vibrant, and prosperous economy. The scheduled events will conclude with the Chairman’s Gala, which will honor the impact of the Hispanic business woman in America. Hispanic women now own 36% of all compa-nies owned by minority women in the country, and the number of Latina owned businesses has increased 46% over a five year period to generate over $55 billion annually, according to the most recent U.S. Census. This celebration of women entrepreneurs will include a ceremony for the recipient of the 2012 Chairman’s Award, Anna Maria Chávez, CEO of the Girl Scouts of America. A Girl Scout alumna and lifetime member, Ms. Chávez is a passionate spokesperson for issues

important to girls and dedicated her career to public service. The famous Girl Scout Cookie program reaches more than 2.3 million Girl Scouts in every zip code in the country and teaches girls five essential business skills: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics. Girl Scouts also has experienced a substantial increase in the number of Hispanic girl and adult members. Over the last decade, membership among Hispanic girls has increased by more than 50 per-cent. Clearly, Ms. Chávez and her work with such an important organization deserves of the honor of receiving the prestigious Chairman’s Award. Through collaborative efforts like the Legislative Summit, the USHCC and its affiliates can bring about real change for Hispanic-owned businesses and the small business community at large. Stay tuned to the MBEConnect Blog and official event website for the USHCC Legislative Summit to get the latest updates and news as it happens, and to plan for future events.

leArn more

USHCC Legislative Summit Website

2011 USHCC Legislative Summit Video

Listen to a podcast recording of USHCC President Javier Palomarez

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ABOUT USAmAXrA is a fast growing business communications company founded by Rosalyn Arntzen in 2007 on one core belief: great collaboration yields great success. Her keen business sense established AmAXrA on this belief, bringing together a dynamic team with unique skillsets and perspectives who shared her work ethic and values. Our goal is to deliver communication solutions that not only meet your objectives, but also save time and increase productivity. We ask a lot of questions to understand your needs, pain points, and goals and then create the most effective solution for your specific needs.

AmAXrA partners with companies and their executives to build effective connections with employees, customers and partners. Our unique business communications expertise empowers people to deliver extraordinary results. Endless communications possibilities™….

AmAXrA has a reputation for delivering high-quality work within tight timeframes. Clients rely on AmAXrA’s trusted dedicated professionals to provide outstanding results. You can concentrate on your business knowing that your projects are in capable hands.

AmAXrA is proud to launch a new line of business focused on training and readiness, Nautilus Learning. The program provides valuable, inspirational education to both individuals and corporations.

People seek ways to simplify and reclaim control of their lives and businesses maintain their gaze on their bottom line. Nautilus Learning provides a series of classes and seminars which teach people how to use tools they have at hand, to simplify life, improve work, and communicate better.

lEADErSHIProsalyn Arntzen – President & CEOAs the founder and leader of AmAXrA, Rosalyn ensures her clients get the highest level of service possible and that her team gets the support that they need to do their best work and enjoy themselves while they do it.

“I am proud of what we have built at AmAXrA and I think the difference is quality. I don’t believe that quality is ever an accident—it’s a result of intelligent effort. I try to infuse AmAXrA with a high standard of quality so that all of my clients get the best business communications solutions possible.”

SErVICESAmAXrA’s work incorporates many aspects of successful project development and execution, from organizing strategic thinking to implementing specific tactics.

Our Specialties include: � Executive Communications and Presentations that

Resonate � Event Management and Collateral that Makes an Impact � End-to End Strategic Planning and Project Management � Effective Coaching and People Programs � Microsoft SharePoint Team Solutions that Drive

Collaboration � Integrated Marketing Solutions that Influence � Analysis and Business Metrics that Demonstrate Results � Agile Staff Augmentation � Training and Readiness through Nautilus Learning.

Endless possibilities. (powered by AmAXrA)

rOSAlYn ArnTzEnPRESIDENT & CEO, AMAXRA

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

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9MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

AmAXrA, InC.2509 152ND AVE NE

BUILDING 16, SUITE EREDMOND, WA 98052-5548

PHONE: (425) 749-747FAX: (425) 749-7712EMAIL AMAXRA: CONTACT@AMAXRA.COM

Executive Communications and Presentations that resonateWe work with you to ensure your intended messages are clear, effective and on target. By better using Microsoft PowerPoint, email,

video, newsletters and online content, our proven storytelling method allows you to “hook”

your audiences—every time.

Services Include: � Establishing a rhythm of the business cadence � Presentation design and development utilizing Microsoft

PowerPoint � Business review and scorecard development � Speechwriting � Messaging frameworks � Executive-level business writing � Newsletters � Internal emails � Event and launch presentations � Executive presentations � Demo production and delivery � Public relations

Event management & Collateral that makes an ImpactWe manage small to complex events from start to finish including logistics,

presentations, content and collateral, agendas, registration, on-site coordination

and support, and production.

Our experienced staff will make your event memorable and impactful and you can expect the best ROI possible for your event goals.

Services Include: � Keynote content for internal and customer/partner events � End-to end coordination and logistics � Development and creation of event collateral � All-up event production � Development of registration websites � Post-event recap and reporting

WHY SElECT AmAXrA OVEr A lArGEr FIrm?Our communication expertise is World Class. We employ executive communication writers, editors and presentation consultants on staff with decades of experience supporting some very prominent executives and companies. All with deep technology expertise that enables us to scale up or down regardless of the size of the project –either way, we utilize skillsets from our wide base of expert consultants at a great value. Working virtually and globally is part of our DNA; we are able to navigate time and communication barriers with ease.

SOCIAl mEDIASocial media has changed the way we communicate. Today we can engage with, learn from, and promote to our audiences like never before. And yet many companies freeze on the social web, paralyzed by the misconception that brand transparency leads to brand vulnerability. Embrace your brand personality, others will too.

At AmAXrA, we can help you build and track a social media presence that captures your brand personality. In teaching you how to engage fans, intrigue potential clients, and strengthen employee morale, we provide the means to augment your brand’s voice and image through the social web.

BUSInESS STATISTICSInDUSTrY BUSInESS DATA

industry servedbusiness products/services

private and publiccompanies

naics codes 541613 611430BUSInESS FInAnCIAl DATA

2009 2010 2011

sales growth % 156 244 -number of employees 14 31 42

BUSInESS & DIVErSITY CErTIFICATIOnSbusiness/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications

2007-2012 WBENC ASTRA

2011-2012 SBA

2009 Q2LEADERBOARD

MAKE MINE A MILLION $

BUSINESS

2007

SILVER AWARD FOR

ACHIEVINGIMPACT IN

2007

CHIEFLEARNINGOFFICER

customerreferences MICROSOFT, POLYCOM

Get AmAXrA’s electronic business card here. To read, get the free mobile app for your phone at: http://gettag.mobi

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ABOUT USCano Container Corporation, a manufacturer of corrugated shipping cartons and related products, is privileged to be a part of the growing community of minority suppliers who help strengthen our economy. In 1993 Cano Container Corporation was recognized as the Minority Manufacturer of the Year in the State of Illinois. We make hundreds of styles of corrugated containers.

mISSIOnProvide highest quality, most sustainable packaging solutions at the lowest possible prices.

HISTOrY Juventino Cano is President and CEO of Cano Container Corporation. He founded the company in 1986 with the help of McDonald’s Corporation. His first building was a 37,000 square foot facility in Aurora, IL. He started his business with one machine and three employees. From there he moved to the 60,000 square foot facility on Raddant Road where he remained for 16 years. In October 2010, Cano settled into their new 177,000 square foot facility also in Aurora, IL. In 1999 Juventino purchased Commander Packaging West in Ontario, CA. Today, these facilities have combined annual sales of over $20 million.

PrODUCTSWe offer:

� Corrugated Packing � Retail Displays � High Graphic Process Equipment � Inventory Solution � Fiber Partition/Pads

Over 90 percent of all consumer goods in most developed countries are shipped in corrugated boxes. These boxes can be used for everything from fruits to household appliances. By changing the design of corrugated boxes, combining layers of corrugated or adding interior packaging, a corrugated box can be manufactured to efficiently ship and store almost any product. We make hundreds of styles of corrugated containers to achieve your desired results.

At Cano Container we have the capabilities to meet your packaging needs. With our diversified converting equipment we can manufacture everything from one color to eight color boxes. With our extensive corrugated knowledge and commitment to customer service we can be an asset or value to your company.

Your product is the best; make sure your packaging is the best too. Now more than ever the world is watching and scoring how packaging measures up. Ask how the latest technology engineered into our new machines can help your sustainable scorecard. Let our full service, carton manufacturing facilities help improve your packaging score.

jUVEnTInO CAnOPRESIDENT/CEO, CANO CONTAINER CORPORATION

Cultural InclusionAnd Internal Diversity

“Being hard-working and committed brought me the opportunities to build up continuous partnership with top

consumer goods companies. And this is how I have been able to grow my business and fulfill the American dream.”

jUVEnTInO CAnO - PRESDENT/CEOCANO CONTAINER CORPORATION

Watch thIS vIdeo onlIne at MBeconnectMagazIne.coM

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www.canocontainer.com

CAnO COnTAInEr COrPOrATIOn3920 ENTERPRISE COURT

AURORA, IL 60504P: (630) 585-7500

FAX: (630) 585-7501EMAIL: CANOCONTAINER.COM/CONTACT.ASP

We have formed a unique packaging alliance with our sister company Commander Packaging West and we offer an exciting technology that has brought about significant changes in corrugated boxes.

These companies, each with a different niche and focus, combine forces to offer new

solutions and a new outlook for packaging users.

WHY COmmAnDEr PACkAGInG WESTCommander Offers Cutting Edge Technology

� At 30,000 impressions per hour, our new OFFSET press provides roll to roll printing with the highest run speeds, best detailed graphics and lowest production costs available.

� The corrugator cold set glue process eliminates most flute line issues.

� The latest technology includes camera scanning with 100% defect detection, significantly reducing waste while raising the quality.

� In house computer to plate availability. One time plate cost is approximately $2,000, compared to $20,000 for flexo printing plates.

� Run quantities can be significantly lower than flexo minimums.

� Sustainability Meets High end Graphics. � We have eliminated VOC and odor issues with Electronic

Beam Curing. EBC is the only FDA compliant coating process for indirect food contact applications.

� We provide consumer specific basis weights with lower fiber content and light liners, 8pt to 30pt.

OUr PHIlOSOPHYTo Reduce Remove Recycle and Improve

� The technology reduces waste without compromising structure or aesthetics.

� Lighter packaging reduces costs in manufacturing, shipping and storage.

� 76.6% of Corrugated is recycled. Only 26% of plastic is recycled.

� Paper biodegrades in 2-5 months. Some plastics take 500 years to biodegrade.

COmmAnDEr PACkAGInG WEST InC. 602 So Rockefeller Ave. Suite D Ontario, CA 91761Tel: (800) 400-Box1 (2691)

Email: compkgwest@aol.comwww.commanderpackagingwest.com

DIVErSITYAt Cano Container, we believe everyone is part of the same team. We embrace inclusion because we believe in making everyone feel welcome. We strive to maximize our effectiveness, cultural inclusion and internal diversity. Together we will grow no matter what race, religion, ethnic group, or sexual orientation you are. Let’s do it together.

COmmUnITY InVOlVEmEnT � Board of Directors, Mercy Service Foundation � Board of Directors, Urban League � Board of Directors, Wabaunsee Community College

Foundation � Advisory Board Member, Joseph Corporation, Aurora, IL � Advisory Board Member, Merchants Bank, Aurora, IL � Participant, Aurora School Business Partnership � Board of Directors, United States Hispanic Chamber of

Commerce

Location coming soon:July 2012, Grand Prarie, TX.

BUSInESS STATISTICSindustry business data

industry servedbusiness products/services

corrugated boxes

naics codes 322211 322212

business & diversity certifications

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications 1986 NMSDC CHICAGO MSDC

customers Kraft Foods, PepsiCo, General Mills, MillerCoors

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Relationship Driven™. Customer Focused.

lETICIA VélEzCEO , CHICAGO MINI BUS TRAVEL

ABOUT USChicago Mini Bus Travel™ was started in 2004 with 10 buses. Today we are the largest mini bus company in Chicagoland. Our strong management team and vision for future growth affords us the ability to offer our clients continued safe, reliable and affordable transportation options to meet their needs. We promote and maintain the highest standards for bus service. We follow strict DOT regulations, even exceeding government requirements for Driver Enforced Policies. Our drivers all have a minimum of two years experience with both the required CDL and P endorsed licenses. Safety is the top priority for their training, and we adhere to stringent drug and alcohol testing. The net result of our efforts: a top DOT rating for audit compliance and a clean accident record.

At our core we are Relationship Driven™ and Customer Focused. That means we are committed to providing our customers with the best possible degree of service. We create strong partnerships with our corporate clients including Walmart, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, HSBC, Hyatt Lodge, and McDonalds.

lEADErSHIPLeticia “Letty” Vélez started Chicago Mini Bus Travel

in 2004. Today, with 15 buses, 33 employees, a strong management team and a strategic plan for growth, focused on providing their clients with a safe, reliable and affordable option.

Determination and vision were evident in the company’s first year when she doubled the fleet and increased sales to more than two million dollars. From mail and fax campaigns to aligning the company’s mission and vision, Ms. Vélez engaged in many roles. Even with her supervision of marketing, operations, reservations, accounting, and business development, she never lost her focus on the client.

OUr SErVICESAs the company with the largest fleet and bus capacity in the Chicagoland area, we have equipment to accommodate all size groups. Depending on the need of your group, we offer:

� Limos, sedans and vans � Mini bus seating up to 25 people � Mini coach for up to 37 people � Motor coach for 48 to 63 people

Chicago Mini Bus Travel™ can meet all of your bus transportation needs for On-Site Shuttle Service, Charters and Transfer Service.

On-Site Shuttle Service � We transport employees, members of a group, or your

customers between two specified locations on a regular basis. Shuttle services include (but are not limited to) getting people from parking facilities to main buildings, to and from convention sites/hotels, back and

forth on corporate campuses or between Metra stations and places of business.

� The size of the vehicle used depends on your needs.

� We work with you to determine an agreed upon contract for a specific length of service and timeframe.

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EMAIL: INFO@CHICAGOMINIBUSTRAVEL.COM

CHICAGO mInI BUS TrAVEl™PHONE: (847) 671-9080

FAX: (847) 671-9089

Charter Service � Our charters are typically one-time services such as

sporting events, dine-arounds for conventions and conferences, corporate meeting activities and weddings.

� Charters can include multiple destinations but are used within a certain time period.

� Specific timing is scheduled when the reservation is made.

Transfer Service � Our transfer service involves moving from point-to-point

destinations such as airports and hotels and back again.

Extras and Add OnsWe offer a variety of products and services to enhance your transportation needs including

� Boxed lunches � Snacks � Tour Guides and Greeters; English Speaking

as well as Spanish, French, Italian and Polish � DVD/CD player � Onsite dispatchers to manage the buses � Cooler for non-alcoholic beverages � Public Address system � Luggage rack

WWW.CHICAGOmInIBUSTrAVEl.COm

COmmUnITY InVOlVEmEnTBoard member or member of:

� City of Chicago/Cook County Workforce Investment Board � Mujeres Latinas en Accion

� Enterprising Women Magazine � Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (IHCC)

� Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP, Washington DC) � Instituto del Progresso Latino (IDPL) � Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce (PRCC) � City of Chicago Task Force; (Past Board member) � NAWBO (Past member, NAWBO) � Women’s President Organization (WPO)

BUSInESS STATISTICSInDUSTrY BUSInESS DATA

industry servedbusiness products/services

transportation

naics codes 485810 485410485210 485113485410 485991

BUSInESS & DIVErSITY CErTIFICATIOnS

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications 3 YEARS NMSDC CHICAGO

MSDC

AWArDS & rECOGnITIOnS � 2010 Enterprising Women Magazine

‘Woman of the Year’ Honoree � 2010 IL State Treasury “Woman on

the Rise” Award Honoree � 2010 Honoree of Latina Social

Magazines “Six Latina Entrepreneurs of the Year Who Make a Difference”

� 2010 Sam’s Club USHCC Bizfest speaker � 2011 “Delicate Balance” Robin Kelly Foundation � 2011 Cristo Rey “Career Day” Panelists � 2011 Featured in Walmart’s Global Sustainability Report � 2011 LULAC “Agents of Change: Making a World of

Difference” � Featured on Univision “Lideres en Accion” � Negocios NOW “Las Guguas de Walmart” � Scholarship honoree “10,000 Small Business Initiative”

Goldman Sachs � Panelist for Sam’s Club YBM meeting Dallas, TX � Letty is a former member of WPO

Many minority and women business owners look past simple business elements, resulting in an unintentional major deal breaker.When it comes to basic business components, what some consider common knowledge might not be common at all. Making simple mistakes can make you look unprofessional or your business behind the times. Understand some of the most common and easy to fix problems that many professionals encounter in the small business community. While some items might seem rudimentary, simple precautions can ensure your business appears as polished as possible without investing much (if any) money.

@ WebsiteThere’s no excuse for not having a website for your business. Search engines are the first place many people go when looking for a product or service. If your company doesn’t have a strong website, your company doesn’t even exist to these potential clients. Your website is also the first place people you meet will go to learn about your business. Websites have become increasingly affordable and easier to create. You don’t need flashy animation or a complicated design to make a good first impression on the web. If your business has a web site, how good is it? Poorly designed web sites with stretched images, gaudy colors and long spans of rambling text make your business look unprofessional. Every business needs a quality web site with original content, simple navigation and clear images. Provide enough information about your business without overwhelming potential clients. Businesses grow, change and adapt in a short amount of time. If you haven’t updated your website since it was launched years ago, it’s time for a change. When a complete redesign is out of the picture, freshen up your existing site with a few recent pictures, updated content or a new feature. Ensure that your website has the information people are looking for; services, locations served, contact information, and your history.

Professional Email AddressA serious business professional should have a serious e-mail address, not a personal handle comprised of numbers, nicknames and misspellings. Saying your novelty email address aloud to a prospective client or strategic partner can be embarrassing and make you look unprofessional. Relying on general email addresses, such as info or welcome, is also a bad call when interacting and networking with others one-on-one. An ideal email address would be your name, or first initial and last name, at your company’s website as your e-mail provider. Most web providers provide a few free e-mail addresses when you purchase a domain name. You can even route these e-mails to your personal e-mail address to avoid having to check multiple accounts. Having an e-mail address with your business domain also helps you to build brand recogni-tion, as your company name appears on all of your correspondences.

Professional HeadshotAlways project a professional image by having a good-quality business portrait of yourself ready for any occasion that might arise. Editing a personal picture to make it appear more professional in nature won’t fool anyone. Save the personal pictures for your private social media accounts to save yourself the embarrassment of looking unprofessional in front of clients. If you take your own business portrait, make sure you are wearing business attire and have a background free of distractions and clutter. It’s a good idea to post one on your website as well, in order to help clients associate a face with your name and business. You might even need your professional picture for a media opportunity. A quality professional picture is also a valuable addition to your profile on networking sites like LinkedIn.

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®Representative Business Logo Every business needs a logo; but if your logo looks amateurish, tacky or unprofessional, your business will too. Does your logo accurately represent your firm and services? Is your busi-ness logo pixelated in appearance? It’s never too late to reassess and redesign a logo that isn’t a good fit for your business. It might mean that you have to reprint your materials that contain your logo, but a fresh look can pay dividends in new business. A good logo should convey some-thing about your business and stand out among others in your industry without being loud. Make sure your typeset is legible with appropriate letter spacing to ensure people know how to properly spell your business name. To ensure an original look that stands out, avoid using stock images and refrain from using figures in your logo unless they actually convey something important about your business. Make sure you have a high-resolution logo that can be resized for multiple uses, maintaining visual consistency across different sizes is essential to your brand and image.

Master Your Elevator PitchAn elevator pitch is a complete summary of your business capabilities that can be delivered in the time span of an elevator ride, or approximately thirty seconds to two minutes. It seems obvious that a business owner should be able to succinctly sum up their own business, but many business owners do not have this fundamental business component mastered. Maybe you don’t ride in many elevators, but the opportunity to use your elevator pitch can come up at any time. Diverse business owners attend a lot of networking events, workshops, conferences, trade shows and other events that can lead to face time with potential clients and investors. Your audience will use your elevator pitch as a tool to quickly identify the health of an idea and the quality of the business itself. An ideal elevator pitch should sum up unique aspects of your service or product in a way that excites others. Conveying this hook in the first ten seconds helps to ensure prospective investors want to listen to the next forty-five or fifty seconds. Relying on points about cost-savings will not set you apart from the competition. If you have an elevator pitch that you’ve relied on for years, it might be time to freshen it up, just like any other marketing material. Consider including recent customers, the latest trends and future plans to add extra pizzazz to your pitch.

Get Comfortable In Front of Crowds and CamerasMany people are afraid of public speaking and video cameras, but public speaking opportunities, big or small, can arise often and quickly in the world of business. You could be missing a crucial opportunity for exposure by declining a video or public speaking opportunity because of a common fear. Public speaking fears can be put to rest with a few basic preparatory steps. Organizations like Toastmasters can help you learn public speaking skills. Watch videos from business owners and executives in your field and observe their techniques. Talk to other business owners in your business organizations about what actions they take in order to prepare for the spotlight. It goes without saying that practice is the key to a successful public speech or video, but there are other basic tips you can incorporate as a foundation. First, eliminate the expectation of perfection to help alleviate some of the pressure. Use hand gestures, a full range of expres-sions and stories to increase your charisma with the camera. Smiling and good posture can also help increase your confidence and boost your appearance without make up or a workout. This self-assurance can help prevent you from freezing under the bright lights of a stage or set.

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Do Your HomeworkWhen communicating with a new corporate partner, be sure to register for and thoroughly examine their supplier diversity site prior to engag-ing them. Corporate representatives will often tell interested suppliers to register as a supplier online. If you can beat them to the punch and ask specific questions about their site, you can advance the conversation and further open the door to opportunity. Large supplier diversity events will have sponsor lists and trade show information published ahead of time. Identify the most important compa-nies you want to talk to, visit their supplier diversity sites, and make sure you talk to these companies early in the day. Don’t squander your opportunity for face time getting basic questions. Try to be as specific as possible to help create a real dialog. You should also read news articles about corporate supplier diversity programs to be aware of the latest trends and opportunities.

Know Your Core CompetenciesKnow what you do well, stick to it, and promote that strength. When you know what you do well and can demonstrate that to clients, they’re more likely to be impressed by your confidence. Some business owners have a difficult time expressing their areas of expertise. New opportunities are exciting, and many are eager to grab at any chance they can get, but that might be more detrimental to your company in the long run. Knowing your core competencies will help make sure that your key marketing and web based messages, marketing materials, organizational development plan are focused, clear and concise. This gives you a better chance to grow and learn. It is always easier to operate from a position of strength since you’ve already honed these skills anyway. That’s not to discourage the occasional challenge. When dealing with tasks completely outside your realm of knowledge expect to spend a lot of time researching, becoming familiar with the subject, and learning it slowly. Don’t miss out on an oppor-tunity within your core competencies because you are spending more time on something new, and don’t damage your business reputation by taking on a large scale project outside of your realm with an end product of sub-par quality.

Send the Right People to Represent Your CompanyIt can be difficult to work around your schedule and personally attend every important community or business event. If you are unable to make it yourself, make sure that your representative is the right person for the occasion. This is especially true of conferences, where you are making a lot of first impressions. Your company representative should be very experienced with your company and capable of making some sales or purchasing decisions. It’s a good idea for your represen-tative to know your elevator pitch, core competencies and key statistics. You should also establish goals on what you want to see out of a specific event, whether that is new contacts, sales, notes from workshops to ensure you are taking proper steps. Also set guidelines regarding who your representative should talk to, and whether or not they are authorized to represent your company in video or audio recordings.

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18 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

• CORPORATIONS, MEET YOUR SUPPLIER DIVERSITY GOALS

• CERTIFY YOUR MINORITY OWNED COMPANY

• ESTABLISH A SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM IN YOUR MINORITY OWNED BUSINESS

973-272-4159www.CertifyMyCompany.org

D i v e r s i f y i n g Yo u r S u c c e s s !

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20 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

ABOUT USEmil Infante, Co-FounderWith a Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review rating of 5.0/5.0 reflecting the highest substantive and ethical standards in the

legal profession, Infante Zumpano is one of the nation’s fastest growing Hispanic owned

law firms with a proven commitment to excellence. We represent a wide variety of clients, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Our commitment to our clients is rivaled only by the caliber of our lawyers’ experience and preparation. Infante Zumpano consists of over 20 experienced attorneys who are graduates of top-tier schools, former members of top-tier law firms and leaders in their respective practice areas through offices in Miami and West Palm Beach, Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Our firm provides true value to its clients through quality, innovative and responsive legal counsel at a cost-effective rate.

OUr lITIGATIOn TEAmAntonio Castro, Co-ChairOur Litigation Team has the depth and diversity to meet our clients legal needs, and is able to draw upon a broad range

of experiences, including that of a former prosecutor and a former assistant general

counsel to the Governor of the State of Florida.

Our Team’s extensive litigation experience is brought to bear in representing plaintiffs and defendants in federal and state courts in Florida, New York, New Jersey and Puerto Rico, as well as before administrative bodies and arbitration tribunals.Our litigation team has successfully represented our clients in the following areas of complex and sophisticated business litigation, labor and employment, insurance and real property.

OUr COrPOrATE TEAm Carlos zumpano, Co-ChairOur Corporate Team has advised clients on multiple domestic and international corporate transactions. We also assist in the

reorganization and dissolution of business entities and the development of exit strategies,

and have a wealth of experience in negotiating, drafting and reviewing corporate and commercial lending and financing transactions. We have represented lenders and borrowers in various commercial loan transactions in Florida and in cross-border transactions.

OUr BAnkrUPTCY TEAmlinda jackson, Co-ChairOur Business Reorganization and Bankruptcy Department has decades of experience representing clients in every

aspect of reorganizations, restructurings, workouts, bankruptcies, liquidations, and

distressed acquisitions and sales, as well as cross-border proceedings. Our team members have fought for our clients’ interests in bankruptcy courts throughout the country – in Delaware, Southern District of New York, Phoenix and Dallas, to name a few – and in insolvency proceedings throughout the world – such as Italy, Spain, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala and Mexico.

One of the Largest Minority Owned Law Firms in the Country

CArlOS zUmPAnO & EmIl InFAnTE CO-FOUNDERS, INFANTE ZUMPANO

Our FirmWith a Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review® rating of 5.0/5.0 reflecting the highest substan-tive and ethical standards in the legal profession, Infante Zumpano has a proven com-mitment to excellence. Infante Zumpano is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise(MBE) by the Southern Florida Minority Supplier Development Council, and is a memberof the National Association of Minority & Women Owned Law Firms (NAMWOLF) and aHispanic Business Enterprise (HBE) member of the United States Hispanic Chamber ofCommerce. Our firm provides true value to its clients through quality, innovative and re-sponsive legal counsel at a cost-effective rate.

We represent a wide variety of clients, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.Our commitment to our clients is rivaled only by the caliber of our lawyersʼ experience andpreparation. Infante Zumpano consists of over 20 experieced attorneys who are grad-uates of top-tier schools, former members of top-tier law firms and leaders in their re-spective practice areas. We maintain offices in Coral Gables and West Palm Beach,Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Our Corporate TeamOur Corporate Team has advised clients on multiple domestic and international corpo-rate transactions. We also assist in the reorganization and dissolution of business enti-ties and the development of exit strategies, and have a wealth of experience innegotiating, drafting and reviewing corporate and commercial lending and financing trans-actions. We have represented lenders and borrowers in various commercial loan trans-actions in Florida and in cross-border transactions.

Our Litigation TeamOur Litigation Team has the depth and diversity to meet our clients’ legal needs, and isable to draw upon a broad range of experiences, including that of a former prosecutor anda former assistant general counsel to the Governor of the State of Florida. Our Teamʼs ex-tensive litigation experience is brought to bear in representing plaintiffs and defendantsin federal and state courts in Florida, New York, New Jersey and Puerto Rico, as well asbefore administrative bodies and arbitration tribunals.

We would be honored to represent you!

Our firm handles legal matters inthe following practice areas:

• Mergers & Acquisitions• Corporate Transactions• Business Litigation• Civil Litigation• General Litigation• Aviation Litigation• Construction• Contracts• Real Estate• Employment and Labor Law• Workersʼ Compensation• Insurance• Mortgage Fraud• Personal Injury• Products Liability• Securities Regulation• Securities Litigation• Complex Litigation• Arbitration

Miami (Headquarters)500 South Dixie Highway

Suite 302Coral Gables, FL 33146

(305) 503-2990

West Palm Beach500 Australian Avenue South

Suite 616West Palm Beach, FL 33401

(561) 880-6520

Puerto RicoCapital Center BuildingSouth Tower, Suite 901239 Arterial Hostos Ave.San Juan, PR, 00918

(787) 354-9387

Satellite OfficesDominican RepublicVenezuela, MexicoGuatemala, Bolivia

Panama

"We take care ofour client’s legaland business

problems, so theycan focus on theimportant things.”

Please visit us at: www.infantezumpano.com

CONTACT US

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

21MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

BUSInESS STATISTICSInDUSTrY BUSInESS DATA

industry servedbusiness products/services

legal

naics codes 54110BUSInESS & DIVErSITY CErTIFICATIOnS

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications

1 NMSDC SFMSDC

2 STATE OF FLORIDA MBE

InFAnTE zUmPAnO500 SOUTH DIXIE HIGHWAY

SUITE 302CORAL GABLES, FL 33146

MAIN: 305-503-2990FAX: 305-774-5908

OUr DATA PrIVACY TEAmluis Salazar, ChairOur Data Privacy and New Media Team has deep experience on data privacy, e-retention, new and social media issues,

and its members are recognized as thought-leaders in the field. To cite some examples,

members of the group have been appointed by the Department of Justice to oversee the transfer of personal data by financially troubled companies, serve as weekly correspondents for new legislative developments via the IAPP’s Privacy Tracker, and were among the earliest recipients of the Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) designation.

OUr rEAl ESTATE TEAmkatherine Fortuny, ChairOur Real Estate Team assists developers and investors in the structuring, acquisition, financing and development of mixed-

use, industrial, retail, office and residential properties. As approved title agents for First

American Title Insurance Company, we also provide title and closing services for these clients. In addition to our transactional experience, our Real Estate Team has assisted clients in disputes involving purchase and sale contracts and options, secured loans, inter-creditor agreements and agent disputes, management and operating agreements, ownership and control, title matters, and commercial leases (including eviction and forcible detainer actions, and rights of first refusal matters).

PrACTICE ArEAS � Corporate Transactions � Business Litigation � Civil Litigation � General Litigation � Aviation Litigation � Construction � Contracts � Real Estate � Employment and Labor Law

� Workers’ Compensation � Insurance � Mortgage Fraud � Personal Injury � Products Liability � Securities Regulation � Securities Litigation � Complex Litigation � Arbitration

AWArDS & rECOGnITIOnS � AV® Preeminent™ Rated by Martindale Hubbell® - its

highest peer review rating; � Florida Legal Elite: recognized by Florida Trend

magazine among the State’s Legal Leaders; � Florida Super Lawyers: among only five percent of

Florida attorneys chosen by peers for inclusion; � “Best of the Bar” by the South Florida Business Journal

COmmITmEnT TO DIVErSITY Daniel Diaz leyva, PartnerAs an “AV” rated, minority-owned law firm, we at Infante Zumpano believe that our clients best interests are preserved by

having our lawyers be culturally sensitive to and reflect the diversity of the community we

represent. We recognize the multicultural heritage of this country and work tirelessly to promote it. Several of our attorneys have served in leadership roles within advocacy groups and minority trade associations such as the Cuban American Bar Association, the Hispanic National Bar Association and the Latin Builders Association. As active members of the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms (NAMWOLF), a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) member of the Southern Florida Minority Supplier Development Council (SFMSDC) and a Hispanic Business Enterprise (HBE) member of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC ), Infante Zumpano would be proud to partner with Fortune 1000 companies equally committed to diversity through their inclusion initiatives.

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ABOUT USAt MHG we’ve got all the right connections

to offer your business an assorted portfolio of group benefits. We are a minority owned business with a combined experience

of over 50 years. We’ve established solid relationships with the industry’s leading

carriers, so you get the same options, the same treatment, whether your business is big or small. You’ll get the best package available of benefits options including health plans, dental and vision care, life insurance, disability and long-term care coverage and other products and services.

We provide employee benefit services to more than 100 clients in the Greater Kansas City Area, ranging from 2, to 60,000 employees. Large or small, MHG provides flexible, affordable health care options, national in scope but local in convenience.

mOVlICMHG is the third party administrator for the Missouri Voluntary Life Insurance Commission (MOVLIC). We provide consultation and implementation services to State Departments, Commissions, Agencies and their employees.

We understand the unique requirements of a governmental environment and work within that framework to create life insurance solutions for government entities.

At MHG, every client is our priority. We provide the personalized attention needed to find

the right plans for your business. We understand each company is unique and has special requirements specific to their industry. We know that benefits are one of

your significant investments, so we invest our time and energy to provide the personalized

attention needed to find the right plans for your business and your employees. MHG is committed to helping you achieve your business goals and needs. The difference between our agency and others lie within our experience, diversity, service, and commitment to provide the employee benefit solutions your organization needs for a healthier bottom line. MHG works directly with each employer group to provide competitive benefit options that offer the best possible value for the investment in employee benefits. We represent diverse employer groups and tailor our service to fit each employer group’s unique financial and benefit needs.

SCOPE OF SErVICESOur services begin with the assignment of an account

executive and an account manager that are responsible for managing the day-to-day

administrative needs of your company. The same team that designs, negotiates, and implements your plan is the same team committed daily to providing resources,

services, advice and products you need to effectively manage your employee benefit

investment. We believe in consistency and relationships, so your MHG plan design team is the same team providing you on-going resources, advice, information and updates.

Your Client Service team will assess your group’s current offerings and benefits to identify the specific needs of your employees and then compare them to other plans offered throughout the industry. We will present options that will help you provide the coverage and peace of mind your employees deserve.

Let MHG Give Your Business A Health Benefit Makeover

AmY DICkInSOn - VP OF MARKETINGMcDANIEL HAZLEY GROUP

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

23MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

EMAIL: INFO@MHGINS.COM

mCDAnIEl HAzlEY GrOUP1100 MAIN STREET

SUITE 2890KANSAS CITY, MO 64105

PHONE: (816) 531-7500FAX: (816) 531-7503

BUSInESS STATISTICSInDUSTrY BUSInESS DATA

industry servedbusiness products/services

finance and insurance

naics codes 524210BUSInESS & DIVErSITY CErTIFICATIOnS

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications

9 STATE OF MO MBE

7 KANSAS CITY MBE

8 NMSDC MAMSDC

PrODUCTSOur experience and connections allow us to provide our clients access to benefit plans that best reflect their employee population, budgetary requirements and long-term business goals.

WE’VE GOT COnnECTIOnSMHG partners with the insurance industry’s leading carriers to ensure that your organization and your employees have access to the best products available in today’s marketplace.

� Dedicated Account Management Team � Employee Benefit Plan Design and Strategy � RFP Design, Solicitation, Review & Recommendation � Contract Negotiation � Plan Document Review � Open Enrollment Planning & Support � Payroll System Solutions � Employee Communications � Employee Engagement Strategy � Benefit Administration � Claims & Customer Service Support � Experience Reporting and Analysis � Health Care Reform Updates � Wellness Program Consulting & Solutions � Voluntary Products � Online Easy Apps Application

WHY CHOOSE mHG � We develop relationships with our clients based on mutual

respect, trust and individual attention. � MHG partners with the insurance industry’s leading carriers

to ensure that your organization and your employees have access to the best products available the in today’s marketplace.

� Our highly experienced team is committed to professionalism, personalization and attention to every detail.

SCOPE OF SErVICE

Watch thIS vIdeo onlIne at MBeconnectMagazIne.coM

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

24 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

HEATHEr SAnDErSOnCEO, OVERTURE PROMOTIONS

“We really have great culture, vision and passion throughout our office. Among other reasons, our clients love working with us because of the level of service they

receive, which stems from having happy employees.”

ABOUT USOverture Premiums & Promotions, established in 2001, is a full service promotional marketing agency that has quickly become a leader in the industry. Overture has experienced tremendous growth and is consistently ranked as one of the Top 50 Distributors by Promotional Marketing as well as one of the Best Places to Work by Counselor Magazine. Overture is a privately-held, certified women-owned business (WBE) that offers thousands of advertising specialties and promotional items from both domestic and international markets. The management team consists of individuals who have more than 30 years of experience in the promotional products industry.

Overture is a company that not only has a proven track record but can also adapt to your organization’s specific needs. Overture has years of experience working specifically with Fortune 500 companies and large organizations, providing them with a full suite of on-site services to ensure faster turn around and lower costs, as well as complete scalability to work with programs of almost any size.

Overture helps your organization see a measurable positive ROI on promotional marketing campaigns by researching your audience, understanding your voice, and finding products which manifest just that.

We’re Not About Products... We’re About Concepts

lEADErSHIPHeather Sanderson is the Managing Member of the company, bringing not only her entrepreneurial skills and spirit with her, but also a wealth of operational and financial expertise. Prior to founding Overture, Heather was CFO of an ASI industry supplier with five different divisions located in Texas and California, for ten years. Heather started her career working as an accounting manager for a local food distributor with company sales of approximately $10 million and eventually managed the operational side of the business. As CEO and owner of Overture, Heather uses her business expertise to lead the management team and company with a long-term business strategy based on a foundation of controlled growth. Even as Overture continues to grow, she is a permanent member of the company’s Mentor Program passing her ad specialty expertise on to the next generation.

SErVICESIn House ServicesOverture offers an extensive electronic catalog of promotional products on their website. This is your single source for tradeshow giveaways, corporate apparel, executive gifts and imprinted promotional products. Be sure to check out their Close Out promotional items, Overture Exclusives, and for those last minute emergencies, consider their AAA RUSH Service logo products.

Imprinting ServicesOverture’s imprinting services provide impeccable quality, affordable prices and ultimate quality assurance. Pad printing, screen printing, hot stamping, silk screening, embroidery, digitizing and banner production, are just some of Overture’s in-house imprinting services. In addition to those, Overture can cover any other printing needs with its extensive network of supplier partners, guaranteeing that any job can be completed.

Warehouse, Fulfillment & DistributionWhether you need to have your tradeshow giveaways arrive at the convention before you do, or have your corporate apparel shipped directly to your nationwide sales force, Overture coordinates your fulfillment project to your exact specifications. Overture can also develop special packaging and inserts for those special corporate gifts and imprinted promotional products and then handle the distribution for you.

Graphic DesignUnlike many advertising specialties distributors, Overture offers resources of a full-service graphics department. Their staff of talented designers and production specialists makes sure that every promotional product looks its best, even when you need to fit your logo on a small tradeshow giveaway.

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Global network & Import SourcingThe bottom line is what matters, and Overture understands that. To help reduce your costs, Overture has negotiated exclusive rates with their vendors, developed global partnerships and created import sourcing programs for large quantity or custom orders.

What does a global network mean for you? It means there are no limits to what Overture can do. Overture understands that some of their clients will require completely custom products and/or large order projects, which is never a problem for them.

E-Stores/TechnologyOverture leverages technology to increase ordering efficiency, reduce paperwork and more importantly, make your life easier.They can create a completely custom e-store suited to your organizations specific needs. Overture is one of the industry’s innovators in the development and management of custom e-Commerce promotional product web sites. They design, host and maintain your exclusive web site for you. Overture can help you aggregate your spend and save you money, all while making management of your marketing projects and budget less time consuming and more productive.

Overture also develops custom e-Commerce solutions that fit your very specific needs: from “basic” proprietary company online stores to comprehensive promotional product marketing sites that include online tools and direct access to Overture’s marketing experts.

Promotional Products Electronic Catalog Your single online-source for all of your imprinted promotional products, trade show give aways, corporate gifts, promotional pens, corporate apparel and logo products. Checkout our specially-priced Close Out promotional items, Overture Exclusives; and for those last-minute emergencies, our AAA RUSH Service logo products.

CloseoutsOverture’s outstanding reputation in the advertising specialties industry results in Overture being specially selected by several of the top promotional product suppliers to be a strategic partner that receives preferred pricing, exclusive promotional items and special value-added benefits which they pass on to you. Through their supplier partners, they add new promotional products exclusive to Overture all the time.

When you’re in a time crunch, you can count on Overture. Whether you’ve just realized that you’re out of logo’d XL golf shirts and there is a company outing this weekend, or you need a last minute giveaway for next week’s tradeshow. Overture’s special AAA RUSH Service guarantees that your logo’d products will be produced and shipped through their priority process. Overture will receive your artwork, get your approval for the order, and produce and ship your logo product to arrive when you need it.

BUSInESS STATISTICSindustry business data

industry servedbusiness products/services

product-based marketing firm

naics codes 541890 541870

business financial data

2009 2010 2011

sales growth % - 8% 28%

number of employees 35 40 49

business & diversity certifications

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications 5 WBENC WBDC -

Chicago

customers

OfficeMax, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Coca-Cola, Safelite Autoglass, Wellpoint, CVS, Bally’s Total Fitness, Johnson Controls, Sodexo, Discover Card, Motorola, Starbucks

OVErTUrE PrEmIUmS & PrOmOTIOnS 595 NORTH LAKEVIEW PARKWAY

VERNON HILLS, IL 60061OFFICE: (888) 456-9564

FAX: (847) 680-0114CONTACT US

Watch thIS vIdeo onlIne at MBeconnectMagazIne.coM

The National Center for American Indian Economic Development (NCAIED) leads economic development and promoting

commerce in Indian Country and beyond.

AmericAn indiAn entrepreneurs

Native Americans have participated in commerce and trade domestically and internationally for thousands of

years and remain an integral part of the contemporary business community. Data from the most recent Survey of Business Owners conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that the number of American Indian

businesses increased 17.7 percent over the course of five years. Sales for these businesses totaled $34.4 billion in 2007 alone and are expected to increase. One organiza-tion has helped these businesses grow, learn and prosper for over forty years: The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED).

ncAied LeAding the wAy for

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MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

“Putting Indian Country to Work” is the motto of NCAIED and a phrase the organization takes to heart. NCAIED is the first national organization solely dedicated to developing American Indian economic self-sufficiency through business ownership. NCAIED serves as a resource center and advocate for the business interests of American Indian, Alaska Native and Hawaiian Native people across the country. Resources offered by NCAIED include business development, business training, and technical assistance programs, among other resources. By serving as advocates for business development and promoting commerce, NCAIED improves the social and economic conditions of Native communities across the country and fulfills its vision for the development of healthy, self-sufficient American Indian economies both on and off the reservation. NCAIED has been dedicated to developing American Indian economic self-sufficiency for over four decades. Founded in Los Angeles in 1969, the initial grassroots orga-nization was called Urban Indian Development Association (UIDA) and sought to ensure that Native groups received the same access to business contracts as all others. Over the years, the organization’s focus shifted to include both urban and reservation-based business development. Now headquartered in Mesa, Arizona, NCAIED has expanded its scope to provide jobs, business opportunities, and busi-ness assistance to American Indians across the country. It is now the oldest and largest non-profit American Indian economic and business development organization. Currently, NCAIED has nine offices nationwide that serve 1400 clients an extensive contact database of over 31,000 records. NCAIED works with 80% of American Indian tribes and procures $500 million annually for its clients. Over the last three years, NCAIED has generated $777 million in contracts and created 8,500 jobs. Over 25,000 Indian en-terprises have been assisted and 10,000 tribal citizens have

received business training. Business training and technical assistance programs through the National Center have significantly contributed to small business and economic development across its constituency. Tribal values and visions of the organization’s founders remain guiding principles and lead the National Center on its quest to identify and carry out tribal-specific business opportunities. Three Native America Business Enterprise Centers (NABECs) are operated through a cooperative agreement with the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and assist NCAIED in reaching its constituents. From start-up through expansion, NAMBEC offers Native businesses market research, marketing assistance, financial analysis, loan packaging preparation, procurement assistance, minority certification assistance and business plan devel-opment. NABEC centers currently are located in Arizona, California, and the Northwest; which serves Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. Despite the recent economic recession, American Indian businesses remain one of the few groups to experience growth statistically. One reason why Native businesses continue to thrive is the success of teaming initiatives. Partnering specialized Native businesses with other Native businesses has emerged as an extremely effective strategy for smaller minority businesses to land competitive con-tracts. There is significant data to support the effectiveness of this tactic and it has gained the attention of the Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA recently launched its own Small Business Teaming Pilot Program to help small businesses enter into teaming relationships and compete for larger federal contracts.   Recently, NCAIED was selected as one of eleven grantees for this program and created its own Teaming Alliance. Events are another key component to the success of NCAIED and its members. There are four signature NCAIED events annually, including the National Center Golf Classic

LeAding the wAy for

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MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

Tournament, Indian Progress in Business Awards Banquet (INPRO), and the Native American Procurement Fair. INPRO; is the longest-running Native business award program and offers many different awards throughout the business and recognition spectrum. However, NCAIED’s signature event is the Reservation Economic Summit (RES), the premier American Indian business development conference, held each spring. Attendees include American Indian and Indigenous entrepreneurs, tribal economic and business development decision-makers, tribal leaders, government and corporate Executives and Buyers seek-ing Indian suppliers and contractors. Over 480 American Indian and Indigenous tribes and groups are represented at RES, making it the largest American Indian business gathering anywhere. This year, the 26th annual RES convention was held on February 27 – March 1 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Well over 3,000 attendees registered for the conference, setting a new record. At least 450 booths were present at the trade fair, where American Indian suppliers met corporate and government buyers to market their organizations and companies, network, and negotiate potential contracts. Additional business oppor-tunities were abound at the Procurement Pavilion, which matches buyers (including federal agencies, major corpo-rations and prime contractors) and sellers face-to-face for over a billion dollars in contracting opportunities. Year after year, American Indian businesses have inked multi-million dollar contracts through RES via networking, the trade fair and Procurement Pavilion. Participation at RES involves much more than sitting at panels and general sessions; attendees engage in interactive experiences and actively seek and form partnerships. RES is structured as three days of business

information and training delivered through more than two dozen 60-minute sessions focused on the wants and needs of native entrepreneurs, tribal enterprises, and organizations wishing to do business with American Indian Businesses. Corporations benefit from attending RES by personally meeting certified Indian businesses and view-ing presentations from pre-qualified Indian enterprises. Throughout the event, they also have the opportunity to hear top-level Indian leaders discuss business and eco-nomic development issues. The role of corporations is important to NCAIED beyond RES. Beyond RES, corporations stay involved with NCAIED through its National Resource Council, which consists of 42 corporations (30 of which are Fortune 500 companies) dedicated to the inclusion of Native Businesses. Council members are volunteers who commit time, effort and resources to deliver the mission and goals of NCAIED to its members. Only companies with a proven commitment to diversity and a clear integration of diversity in their business model are invited to join this elite group. Together, NCAIED, its National Resource Council and Native businesses significantly improve the state of Ameri-can Indian business in America. Successful Native business-es are imperative to the well-being of Native communities and can greatly improve these communities through the circulation of business dollars within these communities. This circulation of money creates an impact through sus-tainable economic environment and self-sufficiency. The community in turn, supports these Native businesses and helps them find opportunities domestically and interna-tionally.

www.ncaied.org

28 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

Sp tlightSupplier Diversity

McCain Foods was founded in Florenceville, New Brunswick,

Canada in 1957 by Harrison and Wallace McCain. The company is the largest potato processor in the world, and a leader in frozen food production as well. With 50 factories around the world, it’s processing facilities are found on six continents and generates worldwide sales of $6 billion CDN.

McCain has been a global supplier to McDonald’s restaurants for over 30 years. Today, the McCain/McDonald’s relationship still runs deep: McCain Foods is the largest worldwide supplier of French fries to McDonald’s. In fact, one in every three French fries consumed around the world are from McCain.

McCain has a history of working with minority growers. According to Calvin Eakins, McCain’s supplier diversity manager, the company relies on its Potato Farmers Initiative to locate minority white and sweet potato growers.

Calvin Eakins has a lot of experience in supplier diversity. Before being hired by McCain to grow their diversity spend and increase their exposure to diversity suppliers, Calvin worked in supplier development and diversity at ConAgra Foods in Omaha, NE and served as the Board Chairman of the Great Plains MSDC.

Currently, minority growers make-up 50% of the company’s diversity spend. McCain’s goal is to increase its minority supplier spend to 5% over the next two to three years.

Eakins has found that there is some resistance among minority growers to become certified, which is part of the

criteria McCain uses to evaluate them as suppliers. The growers believe that companies that work with growers, like McCain, ConAgra, and Simplot, will contract the acreage to grow their products without their having to make the disclosures essential for certification. Eakins is hoping that assistance from the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) will help make the growers aware of the benefits and the value of certification.

Outside of the grower population, there are many other minority suppliers who have become familiar with McCain Foods and are becoming more interested in doing business with them.

Jackie Dyess, President of Inter-City Supply Co. wanted to know more about McCain Foods and was convinced there had to be an opportunity for an Inter-City-McCain collaboration.

“Afterall, toilet paper is an essential supply and Inter-City has the best toilet paper available,” said Jackie Dyess. “I had to demonstrate to McCain how it could save money and gain efficiencies.

Although our first approach to Calvin was unsuccessful, we did not get discouraged.”

Inter-City went out to McCain’s plants and interviewed their people. When they felt that had enough information about McCain and its needs, they presented the company with a detailed budget.To make sure they fulfill their contract on time and on budget, Inter-City created three distribution centers that gave them valuable proximity to McCain plants.

Persistence, coupled with research, knowledge gathering and infrastructure improvements allowed Inter-City to land a contract with McCain Foods and make it a success.

“It’s crucial that a company does its homework and studies its potential customer to determine how best to provide what a company needs,” notes Bruce Fleisher of Inter-City Supply. “Calvin opened doors at McCain so we could talk to staff and get the information we needed to create an effective plan.”

“That’s the kind of thinking I expect MBEs to bring to the table,” says Eakins. “Bring ideas; be creative. Do more than just tell me what your goods and prices are. Jackie Dyess was the first MBE to approach me with ideas about working with McCain when I joined the Chicago MSDC Council.”

As Eakins will admit, timing is everything and he encourages MBE’s to be patient. But rest assured, supplier diversity at McCain Foods has the unequivocal support of senior management.

Calvin EakinsManager Supplier Diversity & Indirect Purchasing

McCain Foods Supplier Diversity Program: More than Skin DeepA collaborative effort yields big results.

Nestlé is committed to having a diverse supplier base and utilizes minority,

woman and veteran-owned suppliers across every aspect of its business. With five major companies in the U.S. – Nestlé Nutrition, Nestlé Professional, Nestlé Purina PetCare, Nestlé Waters North America and Nestlé USA – there’s an abundance of opportunities available to diverse suppliers in a variety of industries and areas of expertise.

Nestlé believes that there is talent in every quarter and facet of the economy, and strives to make it important for businesses to know about Nestlé to best use these resources.

Karen Blackwell has served as the Manager of Supplier Diversity and Development for Nestlé Business Services, Nestlé’s Shared Services organization in North America, for over six years. During this time, the supplier diversity program at Nestlé has expanded considerably and experienced many successes. Last year, Nestlé received two supplier diversity awards; one from Marriott and another from the regional Minority Business Development Agency.

A major tool Nestlé uses to educate potential suppliers about its supplier diversity program is its online eLearning Tool. This interactive feature allows registered users to explore the different operating companies of Nestlé in the U.S. and their specific supplier needs. The user experiences Nestlé as an office building where they can choose the business or department that best fits their business offering.

“Small businesses need more education around what Nestle does, how we operate and what we need. That’s why we

created the eLearning tool at suppliers.nestleusa.com. It’s designed to inform suppliers about the area that they want to support and how they can qualify to become a supplier for that area,” says Blackwell.

As users delve deeper into the eLearning Tool, they are presented with an increasing amount of material, including presentations, supplier needs, organization charts, and sourcing specialist contact information. Nestle wants suppliers to have this material and use it to their advantage.

The eLearning tool enables Nestlé to begin a meaningful dialog that can create the best match possible. The eLearning Tool gives potential suppliers heightened visibility within a specific purchasing group, or the procurement organization as a whole. Registration for the Nestlé eLearning Tool is fast and requires only basic contact information. However, registration on this site is only the first step to getting involved with supplier diversity at Nestlé. Blackwell

wants suppliers to know that they still need to create a profile on Nestlé’s supplier diversity portal and provide documentation for their diversity status.

Blackwell is driven to achieving Nestlé’s goal: to make the Nestlé diversity program as robust and as meaningful as possible and for suppliers to learn and grow from the procurement process. In addition to the powerful eLearning Tool, Blackwell encourages diverse businesses to turn to outreach organizations for training and workshops. While Nestlé does not provide training, links to to the most widely recognized business development resource providers are available through the eLearning Tool.

This helps M/W/VBE and other small businesses work in a collaborative fashion with Nestlé to create powerful and long-lasting business relationships.

connect with nestlé

Supplier diversity Nestlé Supplier Diversity Website

Karen BlackwellManager of Supplier Diversity and

Development Nestlé North America

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

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VIDEO InTErVIEW

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30 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

ABOUT USruiz Strategies is a business strategy consulting firm that specializes in helping world class companies, professional services firms, government entities and C-level executives communicate transformative messaging to connect with customers in relevant ways, grow their businesses to achieve broader market penetration, and to elevate their brands. Michele along with her consultancy team brings decades of experience successfully delivering the solutions we advise, centered around new media, traditional media, social media and virtual technology. For more on the firm’s specialties visit our services page at www.ruizstrageties.com

lEADErSHIPruiz Strategies was born after Michele

Ruiz launched her personal branded company “Michele Ruiz, My Life as a Latina Entrepreneur.” Soon thereafter Fortune 500 companies started asking for her help

to grow their businesses leveraging social media, content marketing strategies, and virtual

technologies. C-level executives asked her for strategies and coaching to position them as thought leaders for news organizations and to achieve career goals. Government entities wanted her help in telling their story, educating their targeted market and attracting clients. Professional services firms approached Michele about communication and content strategies to attract more high quality clients.

A light bulb went off in Michele’s entrepreneurial brain – a new business opportunity!

Michele is a bi-lingual serial entrepreneur blessed with the gift of being a great communicator. She is engaged often as a keynote speaker and brand ambassador. In her previous career, Michele was a Emmy award-winning news broadcaster. For more on Michele, visit www.MicheleRuiz.com

SErVICESruiz Strategies helps businesses succeed and achieve a higher rOI by developing, executing and training in the following

areas:

� Target Content marketing for Digital Distribution – customized and quality content for a target audience designed to build brand recognition, establish credibility, and to grow business strategically distributed through digital mediums.

� Original multimedia Content Creation- blogs, videos, photos, audio, micro-blogging, op-eds, articles, eBooks, downloadable white papers, visuals such as info graphics and charts, productivity applications.

� Impactful Educational marketing – branded content that informs and educates, as well as in-person and virtual seminars, workshops, and summits.

� Social media marketing - leverage the power of LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Photo, Video, Audio and Live Webcasting platforms.

� Inbound marketing – website and internet strategies to ”get found” on the Internet and attract visitors naturally through search engines, social media and the blogosphere.

� Virtual Events - live webcasting with interactive capabilities for attendees.

� Content marketing for live Events, Conferences, Trade Shows - content and distribution to encourage attendance before the event, content and social media marketing to promote what is happening during the event, and content generated by the event that can be spun off into other channels after the event.

� Search Engine marketing – tactical strategies so that content is optimized to help a brand, company or thought leader rank higher in search engine results.

transformative messaging strategies to persuade, motivate and influence leveraging new media and technology

mICHElE rUIz - CHIEF STRATEGISTRUIZ STRATEGIES

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

31MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

INFO@MICHELERUIZ.COM

BUSInESS STATISTICSInDUSTrY BUSInESS DATA

industry servedbusiness products/services

marKeting and branding

naics codes 54189 512110

519130 541613

711510BUSInESS & DIVErSITY CErTIFICATIOnS

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications

1YR NMSDC CA

1YR CPUCCLEARINGHOUSE CA

rUIz STrATEGIES1900 AVE OF THE STARS

SUITE 1800LOS ANGELES, CA 90067

PHONE: (310) 853-3605

� Hispanic marketing Online - culturally relevant content strategies to market to Hispanics and grow business with this exploding customer demographic.

� Thought leadership Positioning and marketing – content strategies to position C-level executives as experts and influencers to achieve business and career objectives.

� Proactive Publicity and news media Positioning – promotion and distribution of content by thought leaders to leverage media exposure and create opportunities for coverage by news organizations and other influencers such as bloggers.

� Partnerships and Collaborations – strategic partnerships to elevate brand recognition, achieve thought leadership goals, and cross market.

� reputation management – strategies to address and mitigate negative mentions online and push them lower in search engine results with strong, positive, and visible content.

� Personal Branding – content, social media and digital strategies to create and promote C-level executives’ personal brand.

� Public Speaking Opportunities – content strategies for thought leaders to attract and leverage existing speaking opportunities plus create opportunities.

• media and Communications Training – coaching for video and audio content strategies, public speaking and broadcast media interviews.

To sell, engage, influence and convert, marketers need to embrace the reality that brands, companies and organizations are now publishers.

OUr PrOCESS � Diagnostic – We meet in person with key management and stake holders to clearly understand the challenges, opportunities, goals and objectives. We

take into account existing staffing and resources in order to deliver realistic solutions.

Every brand, business and thought leader has a distinct “voice” and in the diagnostic phase our team helps to identify that “voice” so that all strategies are consistent with a brands’ authentic personality.

� Strategy – We design a customized strategic and tactical plan for organizations and scenarios incorporating best practices, techniques and tools.

� Implementation – We execute on the strategic plan in phases, and in some cases train existing staff through customized guides, in-person interactive training workshops, virtual and video training as well as one-on-one and team coaching, depending on the unique objectives of each client.

� Support – Success means a team process. We organize support within a client’s firm or organization so that the strategic plan can be effectively executed.

� Sustainment – We monitor progress to maintain the strategic plan to ensure objectives are continuously met.

Watch thIS vIdeo onlIne at MBeconnectMagazIne.coM

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

32 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

kATHY GrECO - CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICERSTAFFLOGIX CORPORATION

ABOUT USSTAFFlOGIX Corporation, founded in 1998, is a full service staffing firm committed to providing its clients with a flexible workforce. With more than 16 offices across the United States, we have been able to offer our clients effective and quality-consistent service programs regardless of geographic location. Drawing on our extensive, first-hand experience and utilizing industry best practices and flexible service options, we consistently and reliably fulfill contingent workforce needs.

STAFFlOGIX is dedicated to delivering improved productivity, cost management and best-in-class talent. Our strength as a unique organization is our agility and flexibility in providing on-time solutions. We deliver a diverse talent pool that offers knowledge from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. We are dedicated to applying the operational efficiencies that are needed to implement a quality service delivery model. Our high performance culture is motivated to reach full potential by focusing on a consultative approach to change management.

In manufacturing and distribution, the need for skilled temporary labor is at an all time high. As facilities gravitate toward project-based production models, the need for a well qualified, safety focused, supplemental and flexible workforce that expands and contracts is essential to business success.

We offer ease of access for our clients’ hiring managers and our company has over 14 years of experience in providing staffing services focused on contingent workforce solutions. STAFFlOGIX provides associates who are skilled in materials handling, product assembly, machine operations, and facilities maintenance. We help our clients apply lean manufacturing processes to keep facilities, factories and warehouses operating at peak capacity 24/7.

lEADErSHIPKathy Greco is a senior business executive and thought leader with 22 years of extensive experience in the staffing industry. She is recognized for global program design, sales, business development, recruitment and the deployment of strategic operations for managed service programs, supplier diversity initiatives, supply chain management and implementation.

She is a passionate leader who enjoys developing and mentoring staff to achieve top performance and is known for driving results through collaboration, partnering and effective relationship building. Kathy is recognized for working with clients to achieve growth and operational excellence dedicated to quality of service and workforce diversity.

Greco has served on the boards of directors for both global and national industry organizations and as board president for two community organizations. In these roles, she has provided industry expertise relating to staffing practices, supply chain management, program development, human resource guidance, go to market strategies, sales leadership, mentoring and coaching.

� Awarded “Top 100 Who’s Who in Staffing” for 2011 � Industry expert interview – CBS News program – 2010 � WeConnect International Vision Award -2009 � International Women of Influence Honoree Award -2009 � Top 25 Women of Power Impacting Diversity – 2008 � First Ladies of Supplier Diversity - 2008

The Power of A Flexible Workforce

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EMAIL US: INFO@STAFFLOGIX.COM

STAFFlOGIX1751 W. DIEHL RD.

SUITE 300NAPERVILLE, IL 60563

PHONE: (630) 896-0319FAX: (630) 364-5888

PHONE: (866) STAFF LX

BUSInESS STATISTICSInDUSTrY BUSInESS DATA

industry servedbusiness products/services

temporary staffing,employee placement,payroll services

naics codes 561320 561311541214 5613105561210

BUSInESS & DIVErSITY CErTIFICATIOnS

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications 13 NMSDC CMSDC

SCOPE OF SErVICESStafflogix offers a flexible workforce to fit each client’s specific needs. The key to success is our determination to provide quality candidates, improve productivity and manage costs while decreasing liability associated with workforce management. Stafflogix has developed solutions to address the real-world staffing challenges encountered in today’s marketplace.

mEETInG THE CHAllEnGES

Heavy IndustrialThe demand for industrial electricians, cleaners, machine operators, welders, CNC operators, CDL drivers, machine maintenance technicians,

miners and more is on the rise, requiring specific assessment and job matching processes.

lean Workforce managementResponsible workforce management relies heavily on the ability to streamline temporary labor processes, while maintaining quality and decreasing liability and

costs.

EngineeringIncreased competition has made today’s engineering industry a rapidly changing environment, calling for adaptability and knowledge of emerging needs and

specialized skill sets.

Payroll ServicesStafflogix provides nationwide payroll

services, including on boarding, time capture and workforce management

-- reducing risk, liability and employment-related burden expenses for our clients.

Information TechnologyThe shortage of highly qualified technical experts in the field of information technology is an ongoing priority for every company.

Clerical & AdministrativeClerical and administrative positions remain essential to supporting successful businesses. A diverse range

of skill sets must be assessed accurately to assure productive placement.

Accounting & FinanceThe increasingly complex and multi-layered financial marketplace drives a critical demand for qualified supplemental staffing resources.

light IndustrialAs manufacturing and distribution enterprises rebound and expand, the need for skilled

temporary labor is at an all-time high.

THE POWEr OF SAFETYSTAFFlOGIX offers job-related programs that enhance skills and knowledge to maximize job safety and performance. Below are the training programs we provide to our clients. • MSDS• Plant Safety• Machine Guarding• Machine Operations• Lock Out/Tag Out• Lifting Techniques• Bloodborne Pathogens• Vehicles & Pedestrian Safety• Lifting

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)• Injuries and Accidents• Electrical Safety• Lifting/Back Usage• Forklift Certification• Emergency Response• Accident Reporting• Emergency Procedures

lOCATIOnS

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34 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

ABOUT USSynico is a national staffing agency, which has been serving businesses since 1996. We are proud to supply talented staff to a wide range of clients, from Fortune 500 to small businesses, across all industries. Our national headquarters and training center are located in Minneapolis and we have branches across the country.

Synico. The name comes from “synergy”—working together. There is more to a person than just their resume, and we have made it our goal to find candidates who will fit with your company’s unique needs. We give you the confidence and ability to keep your operation moving forward at the speed of success.

COnnECTInG TAlEnT AnD jOBSWhere do great employees come from? Right here. With Synico’s unique state-of-the-art training facility, we ensure that candidates come to your place of work dedicated, ambitious and prepared. Whatever your staffing challenge, Synico creates a customized solution and provides you with candidates that can take the job and hit the ground running. It’s a fusion of unparalleled talent and peace of mind for your business.

STAFFInG SOlUTIOnS Staffing requirements experience rapid

changes in today’s business climate, and Synico is ready to meet those challenges head-on. Experienced in state-of-the art recruiting and training, Synico specializes

in providing customized staffing solutions to businesses of all sizes.

We ensure that candidates come to your place of work dedicated, ambitious and prepared. Whatever your staffing challenge, Synico provides you with candidates that can do the job and hit the ground running. It’s a fusion of unparalleled productivity and peace of mind for your business.

� Executive Search � Administrative Personnel � Human Resources Personnel � Procurement Professionals � IT Professionals � Light Industrial Staffing � Financial & Banking Recruiting � Synicorp � Scientific

WHY WE ArE THE lEADErSAt Synico our buzzword is synergy, placing

the right people in the right places to add the greatest value. By working together with you, we can find your specific employment needs and create

customized staffing solutions.

Account Service: Every account receives timely, hands-on attention from a dedicated account manager who cares about your business.

Custom Solutions: We respect your budgets, timeframes and objectives. Every solution we offer is custom crafted for your unique needs.

Standards: Every employee we place is both marketable and successful due to our thorough staff screening, testing and training in our state-of-the-art training center.

Customer Satisfaction: Approximately 75% of our staff is placed permanently with our customers, far higher than the industry average.

Connecting TalentAnd Jobs

rOBErT mArSHPRESIDENT, SYNICO

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35MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

EMAIL: INFO@SYNICO.COM

SYnICO COrPOrATE HEADqUArTErS3033 EXCELSIOR BLVD.

SUITE 495 MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55416

PHONE: (888) 544-1403FAX: (612) 926-6005

BUSInESS STATISTICSInDUSTrY BUSInESS DATA

industry servedbusiness products/services

fortune 500 companies

naics codes 561320BUSInESS FInAnCIAl DATA

2009 2010 2011

sales growth % +11% +20% +15%number of employees 1,000 1,200 1,600BUSInESS & DIVErSITY CErTIFICATIOnS

business/technicalcertifications

years organization chapter/affiliation

diversitycertifications 15 NMSDC MMSDC

federalcertifications

YEARS TYPE

15 SDB

SUPPlIEr DIVErSITYSynico is deeply committed to the inclusion of diverse business enterprises in all of its procurement efforts. We provide opportunities to the most capable supplier partners so that we can pass on the benefits of these relationships to our customers. Many of these companies develop creative solutions and innovative processes that result in increased productivity and processes for our clients. We actively seek relationships with Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and Small Businesses, Veteran, Service-Disabled Veteran, Small Disadvantaged, Women and including Hub-Zoned. In the area of Goods and Services, Information Technology, Tier II Temporary Staffing, Software/ Hardware and Consulting Services. We work closely with our Tier I MBEs in delivering the highest quality that our clients require while eliminating costly inefficiencies.

DiversityBusiness.com ranking: � Rank 23 in 2012 Top 100 Privately Held Businesses in

Minnesota � Rank 23 in 2012 Top 100 Diversity Owned Businesses in

Minnesota � Rank 149 in 2012 Top 500 African American Owned

Businesses in the US

Experience: Our employees are seasoned professionals in multiple industries to assist you in every area of interest.

Security: We carry full liability coverage (Professional E & O Liability, Employee Dishonesty Bonds, Workers Compensation, Business Auto, General Liability).

Synico has provided specialized, experienced staff support to companies of all types and sizes. Whether you are a small organization or a Fortune 500 company, we connect talent and jobs to produce winning solutions.

SYnICO FOUnDATIOnThe owners of Synico are blessed to have

built an industry leading employment sourcing company. In 2012 Synico will launch the Synico Foundation. It’s intended purpose is to award scholarships to aspiring

professionals to help them better prepare for Corporate America. The annual scholarship(s) will

be based on the following criteria: � Financial Need � Academic Achievement � Leadership � Community Involvement � Awards and Recognition � Personal Attributes

AWArDSThe greatest achievement for us is surpassing

your expectations. The number of industry awards we received shows the recognition of our peers on our commitment to achieve

that goal. As a leader in customized staffing solutions, Synico has been honored with the

following awards. � 2008 Stellar Award, Small Business of the Year - University

of Minnesota � 2008 Outstanding Business of the Year - Minnesota Black

Chamber of Commerce � 2008 Top 50 Diversity Owned Business in Minnesota -

Diversity Business.com � 2008 Top 500 Diversity Owned Business in America -

Diversity Business.com � 2010 Supplier of the Year from Midwest Minority Supplier

Development Council � 2011 Top 500 Diversity Owned Business in America –

DiversityBusiness.com � 2011 Top 100 Privately Held Business in Minnesota –

DiversityBusiness.com � 2011 Top 50 Diversity Owned Business in Minnesota –

DiversityBusiness.com � 2011 Top 500 African American Owned Business in

America – DiversityBusiness.com

ChicagoMSDC is one of the oldest and largest affiliates of the NMSDC. This spring, the organization will celebrate 45 years of minority business development at its signature event – the Business Opportunity Fair.

For over four decades, the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council (ChicagoMSDC) has been known as a champion for minority businesses. Since its founding in 1969, ChicagoMSDC has sought to fulfill basic fairness in the busi-ness marketplace for all by facilitating a partnership between minority businesses, corporate America and government entities. ChicagoMSDC focuses its services both on minor-ity entrepreneurs and corporate buyers, serving as a central network for the creation of connections and opportunities.

Today, ChicagoMSDC includes more than 1,300 certified minority-owned businesses and 250 buying organiza-tions. These private- and public-sector buying organizations report over $3.5 billion in annual purchases supplied from minority-owned firms. The minority business enterprises (MBEs) of ChicagoMSDC employ more than 90,000 workers annually.

36 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

Nowhere is the impact of Chica-goMSDC more prevalent than at its renowned signature event, the Chicago Business Opportunity Fair (CBOF). This year will mark the 45th annual CBOF, a significant milestone with great meaning to ChicagoMSDC. “We’re still going strong after 45 years and that represents our ability to be sustainable,” says Shelia Hill Morgan, President of ChicagoMSDC. CBOF has a distinguished history as the first event of its kind. Originally began in 1967 as the Chicago Business Opportunity Day, the event was orga-nized by corporate and community leaders focused on inspiring hope and economic equality and opportunity within racially embattled Chicago. In 1969, the event was renamed as the CBOF and remains the signature event of ChicagoMSDC. The 45th Annual CBOF will be held at historic Navy Pier in the heart of Chicago on April 11 – 13, 2012. Each year, CBOF raises the bar and sets a high standard for what a business tradeshow should offer. The event is a catalyst for business partnerships between minority-owned firms, corporate America and government agencies. It’s the number of attendees, both suppliers and buyers, and the amount of available opportunities that draw attendees from across the country, making it a “can’t-miss” event. “CBOF is one of the most important diverse business affairs in the country. People tend to think of it as local, but it really is a national event. CBOF attracts major Fortune 500 companies from all over the country. They come to CBOF because of the quality of MBEs in Chicago, and because of the MBEs that travel to attend this event,” says Morgan.

Though the economy has led many businesses to reevaluate their bud-gets, attendance at CBOF consistently proves to be worth the investment of both time and money. “In an economy where people are assessing every dollar and ensuring investments are sound, CBOF provides significant return for both corporate and MBEs,” says Morgan. Value at CBOF comes in both quantity and quality of suppliers and buyers in attendance. Attendees of the 45th Annual CBOF can expect a variety of business enhancement opportunities across each of the three days. “In addition to the world-class trade show, we have other events where networking can occur. At CBOF, there’s something for everyone, both buyers and sellers,” says Morgan. CBOF opens with a day of comprehensive workshops and a Welcome Reception hosted by the Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee (MBEIC). Thursday, April 12 begins with the Sponsor’s Breakfast that leads to a procession of thou-sands to the ribbon-cutting for one of the largest minority business trade fairs in the country. Scheduled events on the third and final day include a special speed dating version of matchmaking with corporate buyers and global trade commissioners. CBOF concludes with the CBOF 45 Awards Reception and Dinner Dance, where the top annual honors will be handed out by Chica-goMSDC to its top corporations, buyers and minority businesses. “We use this opportunity to recognize excellence among our MBEs, buyers and corporations that have done excellent things during the year,” says Morgan.

Opportunities are abound through-out all of the events scheduled during the three-day CBOF, but the trade fair is perhaps the most important. Over 4,000 corporate, government, minority exhibitors and registrants are expected to attend the trade fair. This year, designated trade floor sections, including Automotive Row and Hard Hat Row, will provide ample opportu-nities for MBEs to become involved with these surging industries.

Photo by Valeri bates

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

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With so many exhibitors and opportunities, attendees must know what they want to get out of CBOF before they attend. “Be very focused and targeted on what you can get out of the event,” advises Morgan. “For example, you could spend your time going place to place, but if you want to work with AT&T, make sure you talk to them, make a meaningful contact with them and follow-up with them as soon as possible. Corporations also need to be aware of what their supplier needs are.” The trade fair floor can be the site of procurement deals, but deals are much more likely to be forged through the lasting business relationships first created at CBOF. “Procurement is a process and can take time,” states Morgan. “Tremen-dous deals have been made from introductions made at CBOF.” In addition to CBOF, ChicagoMSDC hosts events throughout the year to improve the state of minority business. “We have significant pro-

gramming devoted to both corporate and MBE development,” says Morgan. A monthly procurement luncheon allows corporations to share their initiatives, procurement process and opportunities. ChicagoMSDC also hosts an MBE-to-MBE tradeshow where local MBEs are invited to engage in business with each other. Each quarter features a large event for MBEs, such as matchmaking sessions, 1-on-1 sessions, education, training and general membership meetings all provide significant opportunities to grow, learn, and develop. Through these events and CBOF, ChicagoMSDC has developed a well-earned reputation as one of the largest and most active minor-ity business organizations. “Chicago is a leader across the United States. What happens here is often replicated across the country,” notes Morgan. The rich history of ChicagoMSDC also makes it a top influencer. “We are the oldest agency whose mission is diverse business development. It is amazing to see how the network and nation has grown.” Indeed, the minority business community in Chicago continues to thrive and is expected to expand following a new initiative involv-ing ChicagoMSDC. In June of 2011, ChicagoMSDC and the Illinois His-panic Chamber of Commerce were awarded a $3 million grant from the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) to operate a Minor-

ity Business Center in Chicago. Over the next five years, the Chicago Minority Business Center will create thousands of jobs and leverage contracts for high-growth minority

businesses in Chicago.

“We are very focused on job creation. When MBEs hire people, it helps our economy as a whole, putting more money in the economy, which then puts even more people to work,” states Morgan. “Our goal is to enhance MBE skillsets, help to build a more robust MBE through capacity building, merger or acquisition, and marry MBEs to contracting opportunities.” Areas of focus offered by the Chicago Minority Business Center include financing, orga-nizational growth, bonding, certification and business-to-business partnering. These valuable skills can help minority businesses pursue growth in size, scale and capacity. This was a nationally competitive award, and several other Minority Business Centers are planned or have already been implemented in other cities by the MBDA. However, Chicago was granted significantly more fund-ing than any other city because of its track record of reaching results beyond expectations. Within a few months of opening, the Chicago Minority Business Center has exceeded its initial goals by 150 percent. CBOF is a great way for MBEs from across the country to get involved with top corporations and the thriving minority business community in Chicago. Initiatives like the Business Development Center have also opened up the door for ChicagoMSDC to get more involved with MBEs across the country.

More inforMation about ChicagoMSDC and CBOF, including registration and sponsorship information, is available www.chicagomsdc.org or contact Cynthia Jordan, Director of Events, cjordan@chicagomsdc.org. Updates for CBOF 45 will also be presented on social media sites like Twitter and Facebook.

38 mbeconnect profiles i spring issue

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES• Candidate selection• SME Evaluation• Reference checks• Drug and Background• Personality Pro�le

GENERAL• Production Center Support• Call Center Support• Mail Room Operations• FM’s

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY• Programers• Web Developers• Systems Analysts• QA/Software Testers• Con�guration Managers• Database Administrators• Development and Support• Database Analysts• Help Desk• Desktop Support• Business Intelligence Analysts• Business Analysts• Network Administrators• Security Specialists• Storage Specialists And more...

TELECOMMUNICATIONS• Field Technicians• LAN/WAN Engineers• Network Engineers• RF Engineers• Telecomm Design Engineers• Network Security• Network Architechs• Network Operations• Site Acquisitions• Site Construction• Site Design• Installation and Maintenance• Microwave Engineers And more...

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MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

40 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

The Leader of Houston’s New Majority

ABOUT USThe Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was founded on March 2, 1977, by a group of prominent Hispanics. The Chamber represents small business

members, as well as Houston corporations and strategic partners.

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has developed strategic partnerships with organizations and companies that leverage existing resources, such as the Houston Minority Business Council, the University of Houston Small Business Development Center, and others.

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce provides many opportunities for individuals and companies to join the Chamber at different financial levels. The Chamber executes its programs with the effective efforts of staff, volunteers, and various committees, which allow the corporate and general membership to actively participate in strategic planning for the Chamber.

lEADErSHIPDr. Laura Murillo is President and CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. With the support of the Chamber Board and staff, Dr. Murillo has set unprecedented records, including increasing membership from 500 to over 5,000. Dr. Murillo also serves as President and CEO of the Greater Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation. She is the Host/Producer for the Chamber’s television program on CBS Channel 11 and the Chamber’s Spanish language radio program on La Tremenda, KLAT 1010 AM.

The Houston Hispanic Chamber is the largest Hispanic Chamber in the country. Additionally, the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was named the National Large Hispanic Chamber of the Year by the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The University of Houston honored the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce with the 2011 President’s Medallion Award. The recognition is given to those who have distinguished themselves by their contribution to the well-being of the University of Houston. The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has been recognized as the top Houston Economic Development marketer during 2011 by

the Houston Chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA).

The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce acts as an effective business resource by: � Creating local, national and international

business opportunities for newcomers and members

� Assisting members with procurement opportunities � Organizing and sponsoring educational seminars and

networking events such as membership orientations and networking and business development breakfasts

� Interacting with elected officials and corporations to advocate on behalf of our members

� Serving as mentors to Hispanic professionals and business owners

� Providing updated demographic statistics and substantial Hispanic business and community information

� Referring members to business opportunities

Dr. lAUrA G. mUrIllO - PRESIDENT/CEOHOUSTON HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

41MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

InDIVIDUAl/SmAll BUSInESS mEmBErSHIPSMembership with the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is available to small businesses and corporate partners. Click here to view the investment levels and the benefits associated with those memberships for small businesses.

Whether you are a start-up or expanding, the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce can be an effective business resource. Since its inception, the Chamber has offered members a variety of services and assistance, including referrals, resources, business training, contacts, minority certification, and advocacy. Chamber members also enjoy additional benefits such as eNewsletters, Contacto (our quarterly newsletter and TV show), educational seminars, procurement seminars, international relations, access to current statistical information, and additional products and services.

CHAmBEr EVEnTSnETWOrkInG IS A kEY ASSET TO

BUSInESS EXPAnSIOnThrough both our monthly and annual events, Chamber members and non-members have the opportunity to increase

their opportunities.

Our regular events include quarterly new member orientation and a monthly networking and business development breakfast. Our annual events include an Annual Luncheon & Business Expo which is the largest business luncheon in Houston, and Annual Awards Gala, the largest Hispanic gala in Houston.

regular Events Membership Orientation Networking and Business Development Breakfast Latina Roundtable Student & Emerging Leaders Seminars Contacto show on KHOU Radio Program

Annual Events Annual Luncheon & Business Expo Annual Awards Gala Health Summit & Business Expo International Summit & Business Expo Procurement Summit & Business Expo Elected Officials Reception Energy Summit & Business Expo

� � � � � �

� � � � � � �

CONTACT US: INFO@HOUSTONHISPANICCHAMBER.COM

HOUSTOn HISPAnIC CHAmBEr OF COmmErCE1801 MAIN STREET, SUITE 890

HOUSTON, TX 77002PHONE: (713) 644-7070

FAX: (713) 644-7377

HHCC HISPAnIC BUSInESSTElEVISIOn PrOGrAm

Watch thIS vIdeo onlIne at MBeconnectMagazIne.coM

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

42 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

kArEn BOX - PRESIDENTSOUTHWEST MINORITY SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

ABOUT USThe Southwest Minority Supplier Development Council (SMSDC) is the minority business owner’s direct link to corporate America.

In 2007, the largest US corporations purchased more than $100 Billion in goods and services supplied by minority-owned enterprises (MBEs) certified by the 37 regionally-affiliated councils of the National Minority Supplier Development Council. Over $301 Million was spent in the SMSDC service area alone!

SMSDC has offices in Austin, San Antonio, Harlingen and El Paso. Our service area extends from Austin, San Antonio and the Rio Grande Valley along the Texas / Mexican border toward Laredo / Eagle Pass-Del Rio, Midland / Odessa, and back to El Paso.

mISSIOn STATEmEnTTo create opportunities and an environment for minority business enterprises to grow, and to actively add value for corporate members through positive business relationships.

VISIOn STATEmEnTA best-in-class organization with financial strength, the respect and engagement of stakeholders, leadership, and program excellence.

CErTIFYSMSDC certification offers many benefits to Minority Business Enterprises:

� Access to corporate buyers, sourcing opportunities, business development

programs and supplier diversity champions. � Automatic HUB Certification for Texas-based MBEs. � Marketing and networking events. � Extensive array of educational seminars, workshops, and

capacity-building techniques conducted by national experts.

� Expansion of your marketing efforts through local and national databases.

When a minority company becomes certified with any Texas business council, then that company automatically becomes State of Texas HUB certified. SMSDC uploads their information into the state’s HUB list – at no additional cost.

COnnECTWe connect your business with corporations to develop strong business relationships through cutting edge business opportunity seminars and networking events

throughout Southwest Texas. Your business will have the opportunity to connect with

corporate buyers, procurement officers, contracting agents and supplier diversity experts, locally and nationally.

DEVElOPSMSDC will provide education to navigate complex corporate cultures and provide opportunities for your business to grow and expand your product or service offerings.

Educational seminars and workshops feature subject-matter experts presenting real world

case studies to empower you with industry best practices.

We Do 3 Things…Certify Connect Develop

1

2

3

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

43MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

email: smsdc@smsdc.org

Austin HeAdquArterssoutHwest Minority supplier developMent CounCil

912 Bastrop HigHway, ste. 101 pHoNe: (512) 386-8766

FaX: (512) 386-8988

CorporAte MeMbersHipSMSDC connects corporations with minority-owned businesses to expand the supply chain and build healthy business relationships.

we achieve this by assisting you with the implementation of corporate supplier diversity plans. this service includes training on how to meet company diversity goals, and report the success of your program to customers. c-suite level corporate educational programs are popular throughout the Nmsdc network. many events conducted for corporations offer cpm credits. we schedule on-site meetings where we facilitate collaboration between internal divisions of a corporation, clarify your short and long-term needs, make direct mBe connections, and plan events to communicate your diverse needs to targeted markets. we offer many opportunities for one-on-one time with mBes and other corporate members to communicate your needs and build relationships. your corporation gains exclusive access to hundreds of nationally certified mBes that provide innovative quality products and services that are priced competitively and delivered on time. your active membership will help to build brand loyalty for your organization among both mBes and fellow smsdc corporate members.

About tHe quiCk response teAMCustomer service is our top priority.our smsdc QUicK respoNseprovides you with a list of certified suppliers

swiftly. we connect corporate purchasing agents and key personnel in other departments

with qualified minority-owned enterprises (mBes) to accelerate the bid process for both small and large request-for-proposals (rFps). corporations benefit from smsdc’s relationship with its mBes and our in-depth knowledge of each of their qualifications to match the specific bid requirements. we reach beyond the boundaries of texas and connect corporations with mBes doing business along the entire border of texas and mexico. we connect you with Us-based mBes and facilitate corporate operations in mexico. SMSDC Corporate Members!

� Need an mBe to do a specific project? � Need a list of mBes you can contact for a corporate need? � want us to contact a list of mBes for you?

the smsdc QUicK respoNse team will go to work for you and respond to your needs within hours!

smsdc.org

2012 preMier sponsorsplAtinuM

Gold

silver

2012 events � “premier Face time expo & golf tournament”

June 14 & 15, san antonio, tX. � “diversity at the Border”

september 11 & 12, el paso, tX. � “annual awards gala” -san antonio, tX dec. 6

For more information about these events, visitwww.smsdc.org.

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

44 MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

Helping Women’sBusiness Enterprises Grow

Corporate and WBE members of the new organization’s board soon realized the immediate need to expand their certification program into a national certification standard for WBEs that would be accepted by all corporations across the United States. With the Dallas council and corporations leading the way, strong women’s business organizations from Chicago, Ohio and New Orleans joined the campaign.

The result of the effort made by key corporate supporters and the four organizations was the formation of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). WBENC, as it is commonly referred, now has 14 partnering organizations serving specific regions nationwide. The formation of the national council extended the North Texas council’s coverage area to include all of north and central Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma and New Mexico.

With active board participation on the national level and rapid membership growth, the North Texas council realized it was time for a new branding effort that could better communicate what the organization was all about. In 2000, the North Texas Women’s Business Council became the Women’s Business Council – Southwest.

PrOGrAmSDone Deals Program™The Done Deals program, trademarked by the WBCS, was created in 1998 to highlight and track business being done

between members (e.g., Corporate to WBE and WBE to WBE). The program is a vital tool

for the WBCS to measure how it is achieving its mission of growing certified women-owned businesses. After 13 years, the WBCS is proud to have 39 of its corporate members reporting more than $489 million in spend with WBE members. This was a 44% increase since 2010.

ABOUT USThe Women’s Business Council – Southwest (WBCS) was formed in 1995 as the North Texas Women’s Business Council in Dallas. Incorporated as a not-for-profit organization, the mission of the Council was to provide and increase mutually beneficial procurement opportunities for women-owned businesses in corporate, government and institutional arenas, focusing on the north Texas area. The Council continues to carry out that same mission today with over 1,000 certified Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) and close to 90 corporate members. They serve a four-state region which includes central and north Texas, Arkansas, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

Prior to the Council’s formation, active members of the Dallas/Ft. Worth Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), along with key corporations in the Dallas Metroplex recognized the critical need for an organization that could provide third-party certification for WBEs similar to the longstanding process available for ethnic minority-owned businesses through the National Minority Supplier Development Council. With commitment and funding from 19 strong corporations, in addition to support from other minority- and women-owned business organizations, the North Texas Women’s Business Council was introduced.

“When Women’s Business Enterprises are successful the entire U.S. economy benefits.”

DEBBIE HUrST – PRESIDENT WOMEN’S BUSINESS COUNCIL – SOUTHWEST

MBECONNECT PROFILESSpring 2012 Issue

45MBEConnect Profiles I Spring Issue

CONTACT US: WBCSOUTHWEST.ORG/CONTACT.ASPX

The program also provides WBEs the opportunity to showcase specific “Done Deals” they have had with other members. “It’s a great way for our WBEs to promote their business and provides a nice reference of who they are doing business with,” says Nancy Readel, WBCS vice president.

Architecture, Construction & Engineering (ACE)In 2004, the WBCS formed the ACE program, consisting of WBEs and corporate members in the architectural,

construction and engineering industries. The program is geared toward helping women

business owners overcome any prejudice and successfully compete in these male-dominated fields. A significant portion of the WBCS WBE members are in the architecture, construction and engineering industries, making this a very important program to its members.

lillie knox Investing for Growth Award Lillie Knox was a vital part of the history and current success of the WBCS and the WBENC. Lillie passed away on November 10, 2003. In 2005, the Lillie Knox Investing

for Growth Award was created by WBCS to honor Lillie for her support of WBEs through

her commitment, spirit, passion and determination.

Each September, at the annual Harvesting Partnerships luncheon, an award of up to $5,000 is awarded in Lillie’s memory. These cash awards are based on donations from WBCS members. The recipients are certified-WBE members of WBCS who have identified a critical need in their business that, if met, will support the growth and development of their business. The cash award may fully (or partially) fund this need and may include, but is not limited to, equipment purchase, technical development or upgrade, consulting services, strategic planning, Website development, planning or education.

In 2011, donations totaled over $20,000 and cash awards were presented to four WBE members.

ACE regionalOutreachThe WBCS serves central and north Texas, Arkansas, New Mexico and Oklahoma. They provide certification, programs and outreach events in those territories outside of the DFW area that benefit their members. They opened their first satellite office in Austin in May of 2011 and plan to open additional satellite offices in the coming years in order to better serve the entire region.

WOmEn’S BUSInESS COUnCIl – SOUTHWEST2201 N. COLLINS SUITE 158

ARLINGTON, TX 76011PHONE: (817) 299-0566

FAX: (817) 299-0949

Register Today! For more information, please go to www.wbenc.org/wbencconf

As oF FebruAry 10, 2012

2012 sponsors

CeLebrATING 15 yeArs: VISION, OPPORTUNITIES, SUCCESS!

TuesDAy, JuNe 19 THrouGH THursDAy, JuNe 21, 2012ORLANDO, FLORIDA

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2012 Co-CHAIrs

FeATureD sPoNsors

CoNTrIbuTING PArTNer sPoNsorsAccenture Altria Group, Inc. Arbill AsAP solutions Group LLCbP AmericaCenergyCharlie bravo AviationChevronDigital Handsenergy Future Holdings exxon Mobil CorporationKellyMitchell Group, Inc.Mirror show ManagementNTsG, Inc.PepsiCo, Inc.Pfizer Inc Pitney bowes Inc.Private eyesraytheon Companyshell oil Companystrategic staffing solutionssuperior staff resources, Inc.TargetThe Coca-Cola Company

VisionistaWal-Mart stores, Inc.Women’s business enterprise Council of PA-De-sNJ

LeAD sPoNsorsAT&TDeMartino Construction Companystaples, Inc.

ProGrAM sPoNsorsAlcatel-LucentArcher Daniels Midland CompanyJohnson & Johnson

PLATINuM sPoNsorsbrocadeJPMorgan Chase & CompanyKaiser PermanenteMacy’sMarriott InternationalPacific Gas & electric CompanyTime Warner Inc.Wells Fargo

• Achancetoconductatleast40-50percentofyourcompany’sannualprospectingintwodays• Accesstoprocurementrepresentativesreadytomakebuyingdecisions• Timeforformalandinformalface-to-facenetworking• Trainingtogiveyouanedgeinacompetitivebusinessenvironment

experience

Now it is time for the Next level of coNNectioN:

www.mbeconnect.comA Diverse Supplier & Vendor Network