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From the President's Desk
Hello All Stakeholders',
The SMSDC Annual Meeting held on February 24th was a great way to kick off 2022! The program included the State of the Network presentation and introduction SMSDC's Board of Directors from our Chair of the Board, Reginald K. Layton, VP Supplier Diversity & Supply Chain Sustainability at Johnson Controls' Inc and a surprise discussion regarding supplier diversity from Ralph G. Moore, President of RGMA. Mr. Moore's presentation delivered invaluable information to both Certified MBEs and corporate members. The conversation continued during the Plus+ Platform classes held in the afternoon following the annual meeting.
The 2021 Annual Report has been released. Please visit our website and click on the SMSDC bookcase to review it today.
At SMSDC, we are proud to present monthly events featuring educational workshops, subject matter experts and networking opportunities. To recognize and thank our MBEs for attending our 2022 key virtual events, participating in this year’s EXPO and taking classes to help them take their business to the next level, we are excited to introduce the SMSDC’s Rewards Program.
The more events you attend, the more points you accumulate and the better your chances to win. You can win more than once and you can win up to (5) times.
Drawings will be held at each of the SMSDC’s key virtual events throughout 2022 starting with today’s Annual Stakeholder’s Meeting. Simply register and log-in to attend SMSDC’s 2022 events to earn points. Earn additional points for being an Exhibitor at the 2022 virtual EXPO event and take advantage of the Early Bird Special for a discounted rate. To receive BONUS points, register and attend the SMSDC’s signature classes; Benchmarking Plus and Capacity Plus. The program culminates with a final drawing on December 8th at the MBEIC Lunch and Learn.
Along with the SMSDC Reward Program, we are excited to launch the Centers of Excellence Certification Program. Details about this new program will soon be released. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Mayra Pena at mayra@smsdc.org today.
Sincerely,
Karen Box
President & CEO
SMSDC
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MARCH 23rd
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
MBEIC Lunch & Learn: UTSA SBDC Center for Government Contracting
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Free WEBINAR!
The UTSA SBDC Center for Government Contracting (CGC) is a specialty center of the Southwest Texas Border SBDC Network at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The CGC provides programs that assists small business owners, veteran entrepreneurs, women-owned small businesses, employers, and technology entrepreneurs. These services are reflected in the following programs: Employer Services, Emergency Preparedness, Cybersecurity, and COVID Business Recovery Accelerator.
REGISTER HERE TODAY
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MARCH 30th
Government Contracting Conference -
Building Business in Gov't Markets
| Happening virtually on Wednesday, March 30th from 9 to 3. For more info and to register, see Building Business in Government Markets (accelevents.com) | |
MARCH 31st
UTSA Matchmaking Event
| Happening virtually on Thursday, March 31st from 9 to 4. For more information and to register, see UTSA Matchmaking Event Powered by: My Business Matches (mbmapp.com). We are asking buyers to register first, so please register asap so we can then open it up to the small businesses. | |
APRIL 21st
SMSDC Regional Task Force Event
Bexar County
| We are excited to share our 2021 Annual Report. The annual report shares SMSDC's 2021 activities and financial position. Please take a look to see the Council's success in 2021. | |
CERTIFY | DEVELOP | CONNECT | ADVOCATE | | |
From Your MBEIC Chair
Good Bye to a Very Successful February !!
Closing February with a Great 2022 Virtual Annual Stakeholder Meeting is just what everyone needed.
Our President & CEO Karen Box presented SMSDC’s 2021 Annual Report, and shared success and challenges.
We also had a chance to glance at what is being put together for this year by our President, Board Members, and MBEIC committee through planning and organizing activities for a stronger 2022.
As it is now a unique component of the development perspective of our great council, Reginald K. Layton VP Supplier Diversity and Supply Chain Sustainability at Johnson Controls, along with Ralph Moore of RGMA held the Capacity Plus Classes for Certified MBE’s. The ever evolving business ecosystem more and more creates the need for MBEs to learn about and implement our own Environmental, Social and Governance strategies and policies. If you were unable to attend and would like more information on this class please go to SMSDC Web-site. As you know, these classes are key to build your business and to help us do business with Corporations.
Your own MBEIC had a Meet & Greet. Committee members introduced themselves and their companies. It is important for us that you get to know your MBEIC committee, as we are here to help Certified MBE’s and build collaboration and opportunities by taking your voice to a national level. However, it is even more important for us to get to know you. So please, make sure you introduce yourself to us by participating and engaging with our activities and with your committee.
Lets Welcome March by Celebrating Women’s History Month and SMSDC Events !!
MBEIC will be having its First 2022 quarterly meeting LUNCH & LEARN on March 23rd from 12-1pm. Even if you don’t need to Learn come support other Certified MBEs.
This session will give us the opportunity to meet Jacqueline M Jackson MBDA Business Center Project Manager Operated by UTSA’s Institute for Economic, as well as Susannah Munro, Sr. Business Development Specialist UTSA SBDC Center for Government Contracting. No MBE should miss this great opportunity to help get us to the next step to help grow our companies. Therefore, if you have a connections with other SMSDC Certified MBEs, please reach out and help us get the them to register for Lunch & Learn or all other council activities.
The MBEIC is here to put together an innovative program for MBEs to help develop business areas that will create expansion and growth opportunities. Among them, we are working in developing Mentor Protege opportunities. Actively engaged MBEs will be the ones benefiting from these programs. So you don’t want to miss them.
As your MBEIC Chair, I would like for us to build new opportunities together and witness all MBEs grow their businesses.
I hope you are onboard for this exciting plan for 2022!
Sincerely,
Debbie Trevino
MBEIC Chair
President, Treco Services
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Feature Story:
SMSDC's Newest Local Corporate Member
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Please tell us about Itron and your Supplier Diversity Program:
- Itron enables utilities and cities to deliver critical infrastructure services safely, securely, and reliably to communities in more than 100 countries. Our proven portfolio of smart networks, software, services, meters, and sensors, help our customers better manage energy and water for the people they serve. Currently, Itron is in the beginning phase of establishing a Supplier Diversity Program and has made a commitment to increasing our Diversity Spend Initiative.
- As part of this initiative, Itron will recertify its existing supply base of diversity suppliers.
- In addition, Itron will update the way in which diversity spend is reported and will soon have the capability for Tier 1 reporting.
- In time, Itron will also have the capability to report on Economic Impacts resulting from its diversity spend in the communities in which business is conducted.
- Increasing diversity spend is the right thing to do for our customers and the communities in which we work, and Itron is committed to continuing to make the world better through these ongoing initiatives.
How is Itron interested in connecting with SMSDC's certified MBEs?
- Itron believes partnering with MBEs is an essential part of enhancing an inclusive environment. We are interested in connecting and building relationships with certified MBE's.
- As opportunities arise in this area, Itron will utilize SMSDC's database to seek out qualified certified MBEs.
How should SMSDC's certified MBEs prepare to do business with you?
- Itron will partner with MBE's in our procurement/supply chain department as well as services (Installations and contractors). Procurement will assist MBEs in presenting their qualifications to various departments within Itron where opportunities exist.
Is there a link or corporate portal where MBEs must register to become a supplier?
- While Itron does not currently have a supplier diversity portal, we are currently in the process of creating a portal and will have more details in the near future.
What opportunities/needs are coming up within the next 6 mos/9 mos/year?
- Itron is currently pursuing opportunities in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico. If these pursuits are successful, we will be looking for local/contracted help in the following areas:
- RF Field Engineering
- Field Technicians – installation of load control devices
- Meter Installation
- Project Management
Anything else Itron would like to add?
- We consistently seeking MBEs for projects in California for meter installation services. Please do not hesitate to send referrals to us.
Contact info:
Nichola Kendall- Sr. Manager : Nichola.Kendall@itron.com
Bianca Ramos – Inclusion and Diversity Partner bianca.ramos@itron.com
Website address: www.Itron.com
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2022 MBE "Idol" Competition Official Kickoff | |
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Are you ready to fully take advantage of a FREE direct marketing opportunity to promote your business? MBE "Idol" 2022 is ready for you!
MBE Idol 2022, a virtual event sponsored by Dell is a 5-minute pitch competition for our certified MBEs.
The SMSDC’s MBE Idol Competition is an exclusive opportunity for certified MBEs and MBEs with valid Subscription Services to elevate their business pitch and provides a FREE direct marketing opportunity to promote your business. This multifaceted program supports our minority-owned businesses through resources, coaching, promotion and exposure, and the opportunity to pitch and pursue business opportunities with our National Corporate Members. The program culminates with a live pitch competition and the award of an exclusive one-on-one meeting with a senior-level executive from one of our Fortune 500 Corporations, among other premiums.
Are you ready to become SMSDC's 2022 MBE "Idol"?
Applications open on Thursday, February 24th and end on Thursday, May 5th. Download the following attachments to prepare and be ready for SMSDC's 2022 MBE "Idol". Don't miss out!
MBE "Idol Competition Format
2022 MBE "Idol" Application
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CERTIFY - JANUARY 2021
New and Recertified MBEs
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Back-Up Solutions
Ruben Martinez
San Antonio, TX
www.backupsol.com
Water Treatment & Pretreatment Consulting
DPALM, LLC
Gabriel Miner
McAllen, TX
www.retailfix.net
DPALM LLC has been working with Retail Stores throughout the RGV since 2006,started as a Handyman Franchise and after 10 years in 2016, the name was replaced to Retail Fix Handyman Services.; We specialize in cosmetic repairs, our clients are commercial maintenance companies that work with big retail chain stores, whenever is a cosmetic fix needed(ceiling tiles, floors, millwork, drywall, paint, interior, and exterior LED lights retrofit, plumbing, carpet tiles, leaks, etc) to the stores in the Valley, we receive work orders., The purpose of me explaining what my company is about is to find new opportunities using our knowledge and experience to help local businesses by bidding or direct work orders.
Eccentric Kustoms, LLC
Rafael Hernandez
Midland, TX
www.eccentrickustoms.com
General automotive repairs, quick lube services, tune ups, parts, performance parts, installations, modifications.
Guillory Real Estate Group
Keith Guillory
Pflugerville, TX
www.guilloryrealestategroup.com
Guillory Real Estate Group provides Commercial and Residential Real Estate Services. Specifically we represent commercial entities seeking to purchase, lease or sell retail centers, apartment complexes , land for development, office buildings, warehouses and convenient stores.
KU & Associates, LLC
Dennis KU
Austin, TX
Ku & Associates provides expert consulting on disaster recovery and federal grant program administration and management. We also are a registered Professional Engineering firm in the State of Texas.
Mounce, Green, Myers, Safi, Paxson & Galatzan, P.C.
Andres Almazan
El Paso, TX
www.mgmsg.com
Mounce, Green, Myers, Safi, Paxson & Galatzan is a full-service law firm located in El Paso, Texas, handling legal matters throughout this international crossroads of Texas, New Mexico and Mexico. The Firm has demonstrated a depth and breadth of experience and bench strength by representing some of the nation's largest companies for decades, and litigating with and against some of the world's largest law firms. Along with a robust litigation practice, we pledge and maintain the highest degree of flexibility and personal service any client would want from their counsel and law firm.
Nativeaero Industries, LLC
Lee Snider
Broken Arrow, OK
www.nativeaeroindustriesllc.com
Primarily the sale of medical supplies, gloves, masks, testing supplies, equipment.
Productos Winnuts LTD Co
Liliana Ibarrola
McAllen, TX
www.winnuts.com
We manufacture salty snacks with authentic hispanic flavors. We buy peanuts and potato chips sourced from within the U.S., then we fry them, add seasoning, and in case of the peanuts, mix them up with other ingredients, like tortilla chips and garlic. We bag the product and sell them to independent distributors throughout the U.S., they in turn sell them to the stores. We sell our products mainly under our brand "WINNUTS", but we also manufacture some mixes under a private label.
Sharon Wells Mathematics Curriculum, Inc
Vanessa Guerra-Hamel
McAllen, TX
www.sharonwells.com
Sharon Wells Mathematics Curriculum Inc. publishes engaging instructional material and provides professional development services for Texas school districts.
Triple Lift, Inc
Robert F. Smith
Austin, TX
www.triplelift.com
TripleLift, one of the fastest-growing ad tech companies in the world, is a technology company with products at the intersection of creative and media. Its mission is to make advertising better for everyone publishers, advertisers and consumers by reinventing ad placement onemedium at a time.
With direct inventory sources, diverse product lines, and creative designed for scale, TripleLift is leading the next generation of programmatic advertising
from desktop to television.
Veritas Management Group
Guilherme Rodrigues
Bixby, OK
www.veritasmggroup.com
Professional Development : Tailored Management Executive Training ; Management Consulting: Business Plan, Financial forecast and analysis, growth strategies. ; Peak Performance Package: Gain a deep understanding of you business
through a Business X Ray.
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Associated Building and Development Corp
Aztec Machine & Repair, Inc.
CNI Manufacturing, LLC
Code Red Underground, LLC.
Commonwealth Trading Company
Cranes & Material Handling Inc.
D & B General Cleaning Contractor, Inc.
A Real Estate LLC
E & V Power Wash and Lube LLC
FASIC Design LLC
GNA LOGISTICS LLC
iNof8 Legal, LLC
Intuitive Services Group LLC
Kitchen 54 Foods
Little Red Rooster Ice Cream Company
MagRabbit, Inc.
Mobius Partners, Inc.
My Business Matches, Inc
Nexlegacy LLC
Nova Landscape Group, Inc.
Ortiz & Lopez, PLLC
Pancho's Transportation Services
Perma-Temp Personnel Services
Planet Plumbing
Power Of Two Productions, LLC
Romedu Express, LLC
Rose's Southwest Papers, Inc.
RSI, Inc
Seegrove LLC
Seisa Medical Sales LLC
Suarez Bros. Crane & Heavy Haul
The 5125 Company
The HABITS group
The Law Office Ricky D. Green
TRI-LIN INTEGRATED SERVICES INC
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New MBE Applicants: Register for
Pre-Certification Sessions
Participation in the information session should take place prior to the submittal of your application to SMSDC.
All new MBE's must attend Pre-Certification & Post-Certification sessions to assist with the application process. Applicants can now schedule an appointment for One-On-One Information Sessions. The sessions are held by scheduled appointment only every Wednesday from 10am-12pm.
We will discuss:
- Criteria for Certification
- Review of the Application Process
- Answer most common application questions
To get certified you will need to meet the criteria set forth by NMSDC, complete the online application and upload all required documentation.
Please email Alana Ortega at alana@smsdc.org to register for the Pre-Certification Session to complete the first step in the certification process.
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State of Texas HUB Certificates
Below is the process for receiving/printing your HUB Certificate. Once you complete your recertification or your new certification is approved, the information will be sent to the State of Texas.
Please allow processing time for your HUB certificate to become available.
The SMSDC does not have your account information/password.
1) Go to the State of Texas HUB B2G page - https://texashub.gob2g.com/
2) Scroll down to the Account Access Box and select the “Account Lookup” button
3) Put in the requested information to receive your temporary password
Please make sure you record this in a safe and secure location along with your recertification dates.
Once you have your password, scroll back up and select the “Login” button.
1) Log-in and under the Certification Center tab select type “HUB”
2) From the Certification tab click “View”
3) Scroll to Business Capabilities and add/update your NIGP Codes (This is the only way Agencies can find you!)
4) Scroll to Letters and Certificates to access the HUB Certificate.
Question/comments:
Alana Ortega, Certification Manager
alana@smsdc.org
Gabrielle Ramirez, Re-certification
gabrielle@smsdc.org
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In alignment of SMSDC’s four pillars, Certify. Develop. Connect. Advocate., education continues to be fundamental. Launched in 2012, SMSDC continues to offer the PLUS+ Platform classes: Benchmarking Plus & Capacity Plus. These signature programs are a mix of in person & online courses presented by supplier diversity expert Reginald K. Layton, Vice President, Supplier Diversity & Supply Chain Sustainability for Johnson Controls’ Inc and Ralph G. Moore, CPA, president of Ralph G. Moore & Associates (RGMA). Moore is recognized as one of the world’s foremost thought-leaders in the area of supplier diversity and minority business development. | |
For CORPORATE MEMBERS ONLY is a process to accelerate supplier diversity initiatives based on real world experimentation. Benchmarking Plus delivers the tools and management perspective to help your corporation strengthen your supplier diversity processes. Learn more here | |
For CERTIFIED MBEs is a process to enhance sales and marketing processes and build their capacity to work with Fortune 500 corporations. Learn more here | |
The next series of Plus+ Platform classes will take place on Thursday, February 24th. If you are interested in participating in these classes, please contact Mayra Pena at mayra@smsdc.org. You must be a current Certified MBE or Corporate Member to register. | |
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Upcoming Virtual Events
Registration is now open!
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MBEIC's Lunch & Learn: UTSA SBDC Center for Government Contracting
March 23, 2022
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
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Join us on March 23rd for the MBEIC's Lunch & Learn: UTSA SBDC Center for Government Contracting virtual event. Learn about the center and the services available to all Certified MBEs.
The UTSA SBDC Center for Government Contracting (CGC) is a specialty center of the Southwest Texas Border SBDC Network at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The CGC provides programs that assists small business owners, veteran entrepreneurs, women-owned small businesses, employers, and technology entrepreneurs. These services are reflected in the following programs: Employer Services, Emergency Preparedness, Cybersecurity, and COVID Business Recovery Accelerator.
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Meet the Speaker
Susannah Munro comes to the Center for Government Contracting with over 20 years of experience working for the federal government, government contractors and for the San Antonio Independent School District. Ms. Munro serves as a Senior Business Development Specialist providing assistance to business owners wanting to expand their business into federal, state, and local arenas with government agencies and military installations. Ms. Munro has experience in logistics management including Logistics and Supply Chain/Item Management, Business Management, Cost/Project Analyst Management and Information Technology (IT) support. She has her Certified Procurement Professional Certification (CPP), Federal Contractor Certification (FCC) and is a Certified Business Advisor (CBA) as well as a Veterans Affairs (VA) Certified Counselor. Ms. Munro has a Bachelor’s in Business Administration (BBA) with majors in accounting and marketing from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio.
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Susannah Munro
Sr. Business Development Specialist
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2022 PREMIER SPONSORS
Thank you for your continuous support!
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About SMSDC
The SMSDC is a non-profit organization dedicated to certifying, connecting, developing and advocating MBEs. Through active leadership & professional education, the SMSDC works with major corporations throughout the United States and MBEs within the Central & Southwest Texas regions, Oklahoma and New Mexico to increase participation in diversity programs.
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