Westside forum May 31 in Olympia, Spokane forum June 20, 2012

OLYMPIA – Two events are set to help businesses throughout Washington learn about upcoming reforms that will change the way state government buys $1 billion in goods and services annually.

Gov. Chris Gregoire recently signed 2SHB2452 into law to consolidate procurement laws under the Department of Enterprise Services. The legislation is designed to make the procurement process more transparent, competitive and efficient. The changes take effect Jan. 1, 2013.

The business community can learn more about how state procurement practices will change at two events:

• May 31: the Westside Vendor Education Seminar in Olympia.
• June 20: An Eastside Vendor Education Seminar at the Spokane Convention Center.

These events are free, but space is limited.

Other forum opportunities

• Learn about state resources (Keeping Washington Business Robust) that may help your company develop an export business component.
• Meet with support agencies that can help you establish business relationships with state and local government agencies.
• Schedule to meet with state and local government agencies to discuss their specific purchasing needs and requirements.
• Receive one-on-one assistance with registering or refining your registration in the Washington Electronic Bid Solution (WEBS) to receive notification of bid opportunities.

State to host national purchasing forum
Please note that Enterprise Services will not hold a fall Training Conference and Tradeshow. However, the department will represent Washington as the host state for the 67th National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) Annual Forum. The forum takes place August 20-21at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle. To learn more about the forum, go to: NIGP 2012 Website.

For more information
DES Contracts & Legal Services
(360) 407-9390