Orange County workshop set for small business, industry connections

Published 12:16 am Saturday, January 6, 2024

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The second set of workshops for Orange County small businesses to prepare for commerce with industry partners through the Local First Initiative gets going next week.

“You Asked, We Listened” – Local First Make Up Session for Session 1 at the Orange County EXPO and Convention Center Meeting Room is planned from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Admission is complimentary, and lunch will be provided, but participants must register in advance at eventcreate.com/e/workshopsseries.

Organizers, including the Small Business Development Center at Lamar State College Port Arthur and the Orange County Economic Development Corporation, anticipate local businesses gearing up to forge collaborations with large industry companies.

Opportunities lie ahead in establishing partnerships with major industry counterparts.

“Through strategic planning, adapting to industry standards and enhancing their capabilities, local businesses are positioning themselves to seamlessly integrate into the supply chain of large industries,” a release from the Small Business Development Center stated. “This preparation not only fosters economic growth at a local level but also contributes to the overall resilience and vibrancy of our small business environment.”

Director Dana Espinal said Southeast Texas has more than $80 billion in large, industry projects announced over the last ten years.

“The ability to do business with industry partners can have a major impact on our local small businesses,” she said.

Local First Initiative lead Kristie Young said local businesses play a pivotal role in the community’s economic landscape.

“As they prepare to engage with large industry partners, they not only enhance their own growth prospects but contribute significantly to the overall prosperity and sustainability of our region,” she said.

The Small Business Development Center coverage area includes Bridge City, Orange and Vidor. All Orange County small businesses are welcome to contact Espinal for more information.