FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, May 13, 2024

Over 20 Entrepreneurs Enhance Federal Contracting Skills at CNMI SBDCN’s Training Event

(Saipan, CNMI) The CNMI Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network hosted an engaging training event titled “Federal Contracting 101” at the Northern Marianas College As Terlaje campus last Thursday, May 9th, 2024. Over 20 eager entrepreneurs participated in this essential training opportunity aimed at equipping small businesses with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the federal contracting arena. 

The training, conducted in two parts, offered comprehensive insights into the intricate world of federal contracting. In the morning session, participants delved into the complexities of registering on SAM.gov, gaining valuable expertise on navigating the federal contracting procurement system. The afternoon session focused on the art of crafting effective capabilities statements, a critical component for small businesses seeking to compete for government contracts.

Facilitating both sessions was Glenna Sakisat Palacios, a contracted consultant with the Pacific Air Force Logistics, Engineering, and Force Protection Directorate. With her wealth of experience and expertise in federal contracting, Palacios delivered a dynamic training experience that combined instructional guidance with hands-on learning opportunities, ensuring participants gained practical skills they could immediately apply to their businesses.

The importance of federal contracting for small businesses in the CNMI cannot be overstated, especially amidst the ongoing military buildup in the region. As federal agencies increasingly turn to local businesses to fulfill their procurement needs, it is imperative for entrepreneurs to possess the knowledge and capabilities required to successfully navigate the federal contracting landscape.

“Small businesses play a crucial role in driving economic growth and development in the CNMI,” said Nadine C. Deleon Guerrero, Network Director of the CNMI SBDC Network. “By equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to compete for federal contracts, we are empowering them to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the surrounding military buildup, thereby fostering economic resilience and prosperity in our community.”

The CNMI SBDC Network remains committed to providing essential resources and support to local businesses, empowering them to thrive in today’s competitive market environment. Through initiatives like the Federal Contracting 101 Training, the CNMI SBDC continues to champion the success and sustainability of small businesses in the Commonwealth.

For more information about upcoming training events and resources available through the CNMI SBDC Network, visit our website at www.cnmisbdc.com or follow us on our social media outlets on Facebook or on Instagram at @cnmisbdc.

The CNMI SBDC Network promotes a business-friendly economic infrastructure in the community, builds entrepreneurial capacity and financial literacy within that community, and provides current and nascent small businesses with the technical assistance, counseling, training, and support they need to innovate, adapt, and grow. 

The CNMI Small Business Development Center Network (CNMI SBDC) Network comprises the CNMI SBDC lead center located in Saipan, the Rota SBDC, and Tinian SBDC. CNMI SBDC Network is partially funded by a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Northern Marianas College. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Requests for reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals with at least two weeks advance notice. For arrangements, please contact your local SBDC at P.O.Box 501250 Saipan, MP 96950, Tel: (670) 237-6888, or email adelpha.magofna@marianas.edu. Services are extended to the public on a non-disciplinary basis.

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