Frequently Asked Questions

Who attends GPC?

Government Procurement Connections (GPC 2008) is designed to benefit minority, women-owned, small and emerging businesses.  Last year, more than 10,000 business owners participated in GPC along with almost 250 purchasing and contracting representatives from the public and private sectors. 

What is Government Procurement Connections?

Now in its 17^th year, GPC 2008 is the premier public sector contracting fair, business expo and entrepreneur training conference in the Gulf Coast region attracting well over 10,000 participants annually for its pre- and day-of-event forums, business expo, workshops and awards luncheon. It offers small and emerging businesses, prime contractors, government agencies, affiliated organizations, expo participants and sponsors a one-stop shop for information regarding contracting opportunities. GPC also offers firms the opportunity to establish valuable relationships with prime contractors.

When is GPC 2008?

This year, GPC occurs on Monday and Tuesday, March 24-25, 2008.  This year’s theme is “From Contacts to Contracts”

Where will GPC 2008 be held?

GPC will be held at the George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida de las Americas. 

What is the cost to participate?

Registration is free for all participates.  Businesses interested in exhibiting may do so for $500 or $600 for a single or double booth, respectively.  The awards luncheon is $60. 

Is GPC only about government contracting?

GPC is primarily focused on learning how to tap into government contracting funds available to minority, women-owned, small and emerging businesses. GPC 2008 coordinators also will share their collective knowledge regarding entrepreneur success strategies for networking, recognizing and responding to opportunities, mastering the follow-up, marketing, and staying in business and much more. 

I’ve attended GPC in the past.  Do I need to attend this year?

If business growth, meeting decision-makers, collecting business leads, and being in position to win lucrative contracts are of interest to you, yes, you should attend.

GPC is now in its 17^th year, why does it have lasting appeal?

GPC continues to attract new vendors and entrepreneurs because it works. GPC’s recent market survey revealed that attending GPC will generate 10 new contacts and five new leads or prospects.  Plus, one in 10 attendees sign new contracts or win projects because of GPC.  In 2008, we intend to deliver results to small business owners.  We will improve making decision-makers accessible to GPC participants, increase the knowledge of our attendees through “Get Prepared Forums” and author’s circle, and we also will power economic development and improved performance of our community overall.

How does GPC stay relevant?

We listen to our “customers” and stay current on the unique and changing needs of the entrepreneur.  This year, we implemented a survey that showed we needed to improve in the areas of providing “real” and sustainable ways to provide knowledge, access and power.  In addition to personal power achieved through bidding opportunities, GPC fuels the community by supporting nonprofit organizations, and providing the know-how and access to decision-makers so minority business owners can achieve more, faster.

Who are the partners of GPC 2008?

GPC 2008 is a collaborative effort of the City of Houston, Houston Community College, Port of Houston Authority, Metropolitan Transit Authority, State of Texas, United Space Alliance, Houston Minority Business Council, Women Business Enterprise Alliance, Harris County, Department of Veterans Affairs, Houston Federal Executive Board, Houston Minority Business Enterprise Center, local chambers of commerce as well as other small/minority business advocates in the Houston and surrounding areas. 

What are the new or innovative features?

This year, we are excited about several GPC features and workshops incorporated as a result of listening to our constituents.

What are the benefits of participating as an attendee, exhibitor or sponsor?

A primary benefit for attendees and exhibitors is the opportunity to gain access to decision- makers.  Other reasons include to:

• Obtain business certification information that opens doors in many arenas;

• Learn current and future business trends;

• Develop business relationships with public and private sectors;

• Increase awareness of contracting opportunities;

• Develop strategic business alliances

• Generate sales leads;

• Present products/services during face-to-face sessions.

Which government entities currently have contracting opportunities?

Some $1.3 billion in contracting opportunities are available through Houston Community College, Metropolitan Transit Authority, Port of Houston, Houston Independent School District, Texas Department of Transportation, NASA, City of Houston, Texas Medical Center and Harris County.  Interested parties should visit the individual Web sites for additional details.

 What can a business do to prepare for GPC?

• Register early at www.houstongpc.com. 
   

• Develop a plan highlighting your objectives for attending GPC 2008, i.e., to obtain new sales leads from ABC agency or to learn what new projects will be available at HCC, City of Houston,  Port of Houston, METRO and HISD.
   

• Identify your target client, i.e., public agency, prime contractor, or potential teaming partners.
   

• If your firm is not already certified, this is your opportunity to get a head start before GPC.
   

• Update your marketing materials as needed, i.e., Web site, business cards, brochures, media cards, etc.
   

• Develop a one-page company profile with client references.  Use this for your face-to-face sessions.
   

• Practice, practice, practice your face-to-face conversation in advance.
   

• When responding to a request for proposal, ensure your entry is succinct, reflects the excellence of your product or service, and is delivered on time.

Are there accommodations for people with disabilities?

Yes, persons with a disability should call Relay Texas 1-800-7352989 or 711 for information or if in need of a reasonable accommodation. 

 How does the public register?

The public may register online at www.houstongpc.com or call 713.718.5319.