More than 400 businesses in Pasadena and neighboring cities were represented during a Small Business High-Tech Conference that the City of Pasadena and NASA’s JPL organized in order to facilitate connections between small businesses and the city and other governmental agencies.

The conference on Wednesday, Sept. 6, was also an opportunity for small businesses to connect with large contractors who are doing business throughout Southern California.

The event was held at the Pasadena Convention Center. Matthew Hawkesworth, Pasadena’s Director of Finance, said the primary objective was to provide valuable insight and networking opportunities for small businesses.

In attendance were other Pasadena officials, as well as representatives from other cities including Burbank and Long Beach, along with the Small Business Development Center at Pasadena City College. 

Mayor Victor Gordo gave the opening remarks, and JPL’s Deputy Director Larry James delivered the keynote address. 

The exhibition room hosted three City departments, including the Purchasing Division, which shared important information with the attending small businesses on how to conduct business with the City. A “matchmaking” room was also set up where representatives of businesses were able to meet directly with other City departments. 

Innovative exhibitors also showcased their core capabilities, products, and services in support of NASA-JPL missions, and the procurement needs of the city. 

The conference included a workshop, “Doing Business with the City,” which provided pertinent information on the types of goods and services the City of Pasadena procures. Attendees were also acquainted with Pasadena’s requirements for business operations, various solicitation processes, and guidelines for electronically submitting bids and proposals. 

The workshop also discussed helpful information about doing business with JPL, other local cities, and the federal government. 

Purchasing managers from the City of Burbank, the City of Long Beach, and Pasadena were part of a panel discussion that addressed frequently asked questions; they were ready for further discussions about their roles in dealing with businesses. 

The city said its Purchasing Division will continue its outreach efforts to promote the Pasadena First Buy Local program. This will involve engaging businesses directly, conducting follow-ups, and encouraging them to register in the City’s eProcurement system so they could compete for City contracts.

The City has also made it easy for interested parties to stay informed about current outreach endeavors and contracting opportunities. Detailed information can be accessed on the City’s website under the “Doing Business with the City” page, at www.cityofpasadena.net/finance/doing-business-with-the-city.