FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 17, 2017

CONTACT:

James Partlow (DGS) – (202) 431-3373; [email protected]

Director Gillis Kick Off Initiative for Local Certified Business Community

(WASHINGTON, DC) – On Tuesday, February 21, The DC Department of General Services (DGS) will kick off an initiative geared at getting more work to the District Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) community.

In response to public requests for increased engagement with CBEs, DGS has created an opportunity for businesses to receive a small contract awards with District Government for innovative ideas tied to city-wide development.

Following a concept similar to the nationally televised show “Shark Tank,” local CBEs get the chance to bring their talents to fruition through the opportunity to present in front of DGS Senior Staff. Each CBE will be allotted a 5-minute presentation time slot with the DGS Team — in return, their business can potentially be awarded a contract with the District (of up to $10,000). Each contestant will work to efficiently and effectively convince the DGS Team of their business ideas. After the presentations, the DGS Team will make a decision on the spot as to who is awarded a contract, as well as, the amount to be awarded. Contracts will be awarded on the same day.

This initiative will be open to all CBEs in the District. DGS encourages CBEs to participate and promotes a transparent, competitive process for engagement.

When:

Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at 9:00 AM

Who:

Director Greer Gillis, DC Department of General Services

Where:

Franklin D. Reeves Municipal Center, 8th Floor 2000 14th Street NW

Media pre-set time at 8:45 a.m.

*Closest Metro: U Street/Cardozo Metro Station (Green Line)*

Press interested in attending the event are asked to RSVP to [email protected].