Join us at Fairfax County’s highly acclaimed Small Business Forum on Thursday, May 29th, 2025 at 8am. 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.

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.

Speakers and panel discussions are scheduled prior to the reverse trade show offering insights and professional advice from experts and business leaders from varied fields: 

Workshops

SELLING TO FAIRFAX COUNTY

The Selling to Fairfax Workshops are designed for prospective vendors and those interested in learning about the Fairfax County procurement process. Topics include an overview of county procurement, how the process works, finding your right fit, how to forecast and conduct background research using resources on DPMM’s website, etc.

IMPACT OF TARIFFS ON SMALL BUSINESS

How new tariffs could potentially impact Fairfax County small businesses and how to stay abreast of U.S. trade policy.  Details on what specific products are currently subject to tariffs and what products could be subject to tariffs in the future. 

INCORPORATING AI IN THE WORKFORCE

Learn how AI can be a force multiplier for small businesses and augment your current staff.

MASTERING PROPOSAL AND GRANT WRITING

Learn how to craft strong, compelling proposals and grants that stand out. Discover ways to improve your writing, structure your proposals effectively, and see what a successful proposal should look like.

PERMITTING AND LICENSING 101 FOR FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS

The Fairfax County Health Department will provide general guidance and resources to inform businesses on how to navigate the permitting and licensing requirements for food establishments in Fairfax County.

ACCESS TO CAPITAL FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

Learn how The Small Business Administration (SBA) Access to Capital program helps small businesses secure funding through various loan programs and financial assistance. The SBA works with lenders to provide guarantees on loans, making it easier for small businesses to obtain financing that they might not otherwise qualify for.

FAIRFAX CORE              

Staff from Fairfax County’s Department of Economic Initiatives will present to the business community Fairfax CORE (Connecting Opportunities and Resources for Entrepreneurs) to assist with identifying step-by-step guides, free and low-cost entrepreneur-focused events, and business counseling, coaching and support, no matter your industry or need, all at no cost to you.

VIRGINIA SMALL BUSINESS AND SUPPLIER DIVERSITY       

The session will focus on programs and services offered by the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) to aid in the development and growth of Virginia’s small businesses. Discussion will include an overview of the state's small business certification programs, and other educational, financial and technical assistance offered by SBSD.

BUILDING A RESILIENT BRAND – MARKETING, STORYTELLING, AND CUSTOMER LOYALTY

Designed for small businesses, this workshop shows you how to use low budget practical marketing strategies to build a compelling brand, tell your business story and grow loyal customers.

Parking and Participant Instructions will be updated soon.

Questions? Contact the SBC Staffer