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Agenda

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We are pleased to present the agenda for the upcoming Competitive Edge Conference, a premier event dedicated to fostering diversity, inclusion, and access in business. The agenda is thoughtfully designed to provide attendees with a rich and engaging experience, filled with informative sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions on crucial topics. From the opening plenary featuring esteemed executives sharing their insights on capital projects, to the town hall panel discussions and one-on-one networking sessions with agencies and corporations, the agenda offers a comprehensive platform for knowledge-sharing and relationship-building. We have also included an exclusive awards ceremony to recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of minority businesses driving economic and workforce development in New York State. Join us for this transformative event and be a part of the discussions and connections that will shape the future of business opportunities for all.

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July 17, 2023

Service Awards Gala

Hard Rock Hotel New York, The Venue
159 W 48th St NYC
Time : 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Cocktail Attire)

5:00 P.M.
Awards Networking Reception (Entertainment)
6:30 P.M.
Welcome, Invocation & Opening Remarks
7:00 P.M.
Dinner Service
8:00 P.M.
Presentation of Awards
Honorees:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award

Michael J. Garner, MBA, CCA
Chief Diversity Officer
Mayor’s Office of M/WBEs
Office of the Mayor City of New York

WBE Firm of the Year

The Best Shades

MBE Firm of the Year

LSN Contractors and Construction

DBE Firm of the Year

Empower Contracting, Inc

SDVOB Firm of the Year

Whitewood Renovations

Rising Star Award

Bocaditos Bistro and Expresso Bar LLC

“Clarence Swanston” Leadership Award

Indelible Solutions

9:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks & Thank You

July 18, 2023

CONFERENCE

Venue PIER SIXTY : 60 Chelsea Piers, New York
Time : 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

8:00 a.m.
Registration Opens + Networking & Breakfast
Exhibitor Booths will be open all-day
9:00 a.m.
Plenary Session - Bridging the Gap: Equity to Equality

High Level Conversation on how the paradigm has evolved to Bridge the Gap from Equity to Equality throughout NYS and NYC agencies and corporations.

10:15 a.m.
Top Procurement Opportunities with New York State and New York City Government Agencies

A deep dive and discussion about approved major projects currently underway throughout the NYC and NYS and the goal setting methodology utilized to include MWLDBEs and SDVOBs.

11:30 a.m.

Access to Financial Opportunities for Small Businesses

Join a discussion on opportunities for increasing participation for MWBE Investment Firms.

12:30 p.m.
Lunch
1:30 p.m.
Spotlight Presentation: New York City Public Schools: We Are Open for M/WBE Business

Presenter: Karine Apollon, Chief Diversity Officer for NYC Public Schools

2:15 p.m.
Futuristic Innovations: Unveiling Energy/Transportation Infrastructure Entrepreneurial Opportunities

Learn more about the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that provides roughly $1 trillion, with $550 billion in new spending over five years

3:30 p.m.
Conclusion