City of Tampa Connecting Businesses with Contract Opportunities

The City of Tampa is set to host a major expo aimed at boosting small business opportunities in the construction industry.

The Semi-Annual Bridges to Business Subcontractor Outreach and Networking Expo is taking place on Thursday, December 19, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Tampa Convention Center, 333 S Franklin St. The Expo serves as the largest networking event in the Bay Area for construction subcontractors, industry suppliers, and service providers.

With billions of dollars in public and private construction projects planned for Tampa’s future, the Expo provides a platform for small and minority-owned businesses to access information, build connections, and secure contracts. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with more than two dozen experts, including government procurement officials, financial lenders, bonding agencies, and prime contractors.

The event also highlights Tampa’s commitment to equity in business. Launched five years ago as part of Mayor Jane Castor’s mission to increase minority participation in City contracts, the Bridges to Business initiative has already helped numerous minority-owned and women-owned firms become City-certified vendors and secure contracts.

“It’s all about leveling the playing field and making sure everyone, especially our minority and women-owned businesses, has a fair shot,” said Mayor Jane Castor. “The Expo is a great example of how we’re connecting people with the opportunities they need to be part of Tampa’s growing success.”

The Expo is free to attend. Advance registration is encouraged. Participants can register online at tampa.gov/register.