On behalf of the Competitive Edge Committee, welcome to the Annual Competitive Edge Conference.  Now in its 31^st year of existence and the largest conference downstate highlighting agency participation, we continue to showcase opportunities for the small business community. This year we have an exciting program at the world-renowned Resorts World New York City.  The committee has planned an exciting platform of a premier gathering with major agencies and great speakers engaged in robust conversations regarding procurement opportunities throughout NYS.

Our 2025 theme is Adapt. Advocate. Achieve. This captures the spirit of today’s resilient and ambitious business community. It reflects the agility of diverse firms navigating change, the power of advocacy in shaping inclusive markets, and the drive for excellence that defines the small business community and workforce development opportunities across the region.

Throughout the years, the Competitive Edge Conference remains a critical space for unlocking access to capital, contracts, and connections across both public and private sectors.

We congratulate the 2025 honorees, and our deepest gratitude to our agency partners, panelists, sponsors, and media allies who continue to advance the mission of empowering the small business community at this event.  Enjoy the conference!

Best,

Zenaida Rodriguez

Chair, Competitive Edge Conference Committee