Eglin small business office hosts open house event

  • Published
  • By Samuel King Jr.
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Small business is the solution of choice for supporting the warfighters.

That's the focus of the base small business office and their goal with their Small Business Open House March 3 at the officers club.

"We use our small business open house or vendor shows to provide an environment that will create small business options for the warfighter," said Cathina Hill, Eglin small business office.

This year, the event was separated into two formats, one for high-tech small businesses and the other for low-tech and construction.

"We want to expose the base to the awesome capabilities that exist within the small business area," said Gina Holman, small business office director. "It also serves as a reminder to them of the importance of small businesses to the economy and the need to support the Air Force small business program goals."

The event attracted 45 different firms to set up exhibits. Firms like Alabama Aircraft Industries, an aircraft repair and refurbishment company and TMS Cases, which sells heavy duty storage units for communications equipment or weapons.

"This forum is a perfect opportunity to interact with the military and other vendors and exhibit our product capabilities," said McShan Walker, TMS Cases.

A steady stream of patrons mingled and networked with the vendors before the classroom phase and learning about the different small business programs and innovations.

"The small businesses participating in this show were eager to meet directly with people who may generate requirements, issue contracts, or make purchases with a government purchase card," said Mrs. Holman.

For more information about the Eglin small business office, click here.