Small Business Expo Offers Networking Opportunity

By Rob Anastasio, Office of Naval Research Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- The Office of Naval Research (ONR) opened gateways to contracting opportunities with the Navy's science and technology provider, at the Small Business/Minority and Women Business Expo in Harrisburg, Pa., March 23.

Co-sponsored by the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) and Pennsylvania Departments of General Services and Public Welfare, the event provided federal, state and city agencies with a forum for explaining government programs supporting businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans and service-disabled veterans.

Scheduled speakers included NAVSUP Commander Rear Adm. Michael Lyden and Deputy Commander Rear Adm. Sean Crean; U.S. Sen. Robert Casey Jr., D-Pa.; Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett; and Harrisburg Mayor Linda Thompson.

Brenda Pickett, associate director of ONR's Office of Small Business, said the expo allows the command to expand its outreach and exposure across the country.

"Through this expo and similar events, we hope to expand our reach to find those creative, innovative ideas that will benefit the Navy and Marine Corps' mission," Pickett said.

Through its Office of Small Business, ONR maintains an active outreach program to ensure underrepresented businesses have access to information, so they can compete and participate in the organization's acquisition program—both as prime contractors and subcontractors.

The office provides advice concerning acquisition procedures; information about proposed acquisitions; instructions on preparing proposals, interpretation of standard clauses; certifications and representations; and instructions on obtaining payment and financial assistance within the procurement regulations.

The Department of the Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR) provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,400 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.