Albany, Ga. -- More than 100 vendors showcased their technological innovations at the second Small Business Trade Show hosted by Marine Corps Logistics Command, Aug. 4 and Friday.
During the two-day event, more than 550 people attended the trade show held at the James H. Gray Sr. Civic Center in Albany where businesses displayed products, services, technologies and ideas with the goals of supporting the warfighter.
The trade show’s purpose is to create a forum to educate and provide information to small commercial enterprises desiring to conduct business with the Marine Corps, according to Hattie Mosely, director, Small Business Program Office, Logistics Command.
“The trade show is an opportunity for small businesses to exhibit their products and services, in lieu of corporate capability briefs,” she said. “The show offers networking opportunities for firms to possibly form partnerships and contract with government or prime vendors.”
Businesses from the greater Albany area were not the only ones present. Businesses from out of state and Canada were represented as well as Department of Defense, federal, state and local government agencies.
“This gives us a chance not only to showcase Marine Corps Logistics Command, but also gives us a chance to showcase Albany itself,” Maj. Gen. Charles L. Hudson, commanding general, Logistics Command, said. “This provides businesses in the local area (a way) to reach out and create relationships with these other organizations. I believe that will have a positive impact on the local economy.”
Ted Clem, president, Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, provided opening remarks on the first day of the event, thanking the vendors for supporting the Marine Corps and the warfighter.
The more than 100 exhibitors displayed and marketed their products at booths and tables filled with brochures, business cards, displays, short videos and posters. One vendor showcased military gear including flashlights, knives and sunglasses.
Also on hand were representatives from the Marine Corps, private sector businesses and civilian managers, according to Mosely.
For out-of-state vendor Jeff Carr, military account manager, Source One Distributors, from Camp Lejeune, N.C., this was his first time to Albany and the Small Business Trade Show.
“Trade shows like this one allows vendors to demonstrate their products and provide the warfighter with the newest equipment available,” he said. “The ultimate goal is to support the warfighter. That is why everyone is here.”
Carr said this was a great opportunity to network and build relationships and he looks forward to a possible 2012 Trade Show.
The second day featured multiple breakout sessions providing training and information on various government supply and acquisition programs and processes.
“In the end, we want to improve relations and collaboration with small businesses and the local community to broaden and diversify business opportunities for Marine Corps Logistics Command and the Marine Corps to provide products and services to best support the warfighter,” Mosely said.
The Albany Marine Band entertained vendors and attendees with selected music.