Join us at Fairfax County’s highly acclaimed annual Small Business Forum (previously the Vendor Forum). Take advantage of learning from business experts and connect with county procurement representatives. Bring your entrepreneurial spirit and learn how to grow your business opportunities.

2019 Small Business Forum

We would like to thank everyone who came out and participated at this year's event. We hope that you were able to get all of your procurement questions answered and make new connections with Fairfax County Government. For anyone that was unable to attend or that wanted a copy of the Selling to Fairfax County presentation, you can find it at the link below. See you next year!

Selling to Fairfax Presentation

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Small Business Forum Details

The Small Business Forum is a free annual event hosted by Fairfax County created to provide a forum for small businesses to interact directly with county procurement representatives. Hosted in conjunction with the Fairfax County Small Business Commission, the Small Business Forum provides an intimate and interactive setting for suppliers to:

• Network with Fairfax County departments and business support organizations
• Discover marketing and business fundamentals that can help grow your company
• Explore alternative options for funding your business
• Learn how to properly and effectively pursue work with Fairfax County

The Reverse Tradeshow is the heart of the Small Business Forum where Fairfax County departments and business support organizations are ready to discuss suppliers’ capabilities and their requirements face to face. This is a great opportunity to make procurement decision makers aware of suppliers’ offerings as they look to expand their network. See the 2019 list of exhibitors here.

Speakers, panel discussions and free coaching sessions are scheduled prior to the reverse trade show offering insights and professional advice from experts and business leaders from varied fields. This year's keynote address will feature Dr. David J. Miller, Executive Director of GMU's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Breakout sessions include Marketing on a Shoestring, Cybersecurity, Intellectual Property, Business Communication, Readiness and Planning and Selling to Fairfax. See the 2019 schedule, with room numbers and times here.

Free Coaching sessions will be available from the County's BizEx Program. The County's BizEx Program helps businesses launch and grow in Fairfax County by offering guidance on permitting, licenses, zoning, inspections, etc. Appointments will be available for individual sessions of 15 minutes. Indicate interest during the registration process or email Christopher.McGough@fairfaxcounty.gov to reserve a timeslot. 

2019 Bea Malone Award will be presented at the Small Business Forum. The Bea Malone Award aims to recognize outstanding small business achievement and service to Fairfax County. Applications due by July 3, 2019. Learn more or nominate a business for the award here.

Parking and Participant Instructions are available here.

Questions? Contact the SBC Staffer