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19th Annual Business Matchmaker Conference
September 18-19, 2025

AGENDA

DAY 1

Thursday

September 18, 2025

6:00 – 8:00 pm

Networking Mixer – International Ballroom

DAY 2

Friday

September 19, 2025

7:30 am

Registration

8:00 – 9:00 am

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony – Majestic Ballroom

9:00 – 9:20 am

Morning Plenary Session – Majestic Ballroom

Corey Saban

Transition to West side of the Hotel (10 minutes)

9:30 – 10:15 am

WORKSHOP ONE

How To Do Business with Government – International Ballroom

Connect with agency leadership, learn about upcoming business opportunities and network with potential business partners. This workshop will forecast each agency’s upcoming projects and highlight how to keep you informed.

Markeisha Johnson

VP of Development and Compliance- Inclusifi
Moderator

Anthony Gregory

Airport Compliance Manager - Palm Beach County Department of Airports

Barbara Myers

General Manager for Construction Purchasing and General Services – School District of Palm Beach County

David Ricks

County Engineer - Palm Beach County

Ivan Maldonado

Executive Director – Palm Tran

Kevin C. Volbrecht

Director of Engineering Services – City of West Palm Beach

Monica Powery

Purchasing Director- City of Greenacres

Nathan P. Mayer, P.E., BCEE

Director of Engineering and Public Works– Solid Waste Authority

Stacey Garced

Assistant Procurement Director - City of Riviera Beach

Transition to other workshops (15 minutes)

10:30 – 11:15 am

WORKSHOP TWO

Filling in the Gap, GAP Financing - Coconut

Learn about the Palm Beach County Business Loan Program which implements several loan funds. This workshop will highlight how the Business Loan Program can support a broad range of new and existing businesses located within Palm Beach County.

David Jaco

Business & Economic Development Coordinator - Palm Beach County Department of Housing and Economic Development

10:30 – 11:15 am

WORKSHOP THREE

How to Obtain Bonding – International Ballroom

This workshop is designed specifically for business owners, contractors, and service providers. You will discover how commercial, contract, and construction surety bonds can be pivotal in securing new projects, building trust with clients, and effectively managing risk. We will guide you through the process of obtaining and using surety bonds. This workshop is packed with valuable insights to help your business thrive.

Markeisha Johnson

VP of Development and Compliance- Inclusifi
Moderator

Richard Zimmerman

Strategic Risk Advisor – Seubert & Associates, Inc.

Transition to Westside of the Hotel (10 minutes)

11:30 – 12:15 pm

WORKSHOP FOUR

Where is the Money (Private) – International Ballroom

Join us for an insightful workshop designed for aspiring and established small business owners seeking to understand the essential conditions for securing commercial bank loans and lines of credit. This interactive session will cover key topics, including:

  • Understanding Bank Expectations
  • Preparing Your Financial Documents
  • Building Strong Relationships with Banks
  • Exploring Loan Options

At the end of this workshop, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of the favorable conditions that can enhance their chances of securing financing and empower them to take their businesses to the next level. Whether you are looking to launch a new venture or expand an existing one, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed.

Markeisha Johnson

VP of Development and Compliance- Inclusifi
Moderator

Pamela Stewart

President at InclusiFi

Sean Chaderton

VP Branch Manager at SouthState Bank

Diane Corsi

VP Business Development Officer at Seacoast Bank

Mary Anne Gioia

VP Senior Relationship Manager at Bank of America

Randy Walker

VP Senior Business Banking Manager at BankUnited

11:30 – 12:15 pm

WORKSHOP FIVE

Alphabet Soup – What does it Mean?

This workshop focuses on key public solicitation acronyms: RFP (Request for Proposal), RFQ (Request for Quotation),  ITB (Invitation to Bid) and other public bidding methods. Participants will  gain insights into the definitions, purposes, and differences between these solicitation methods and an understanding of each type of solicitation based on project requirements, budget constraints, and desired outcomes.

LaTonya Ammons

Director of Procurement- City of Riviera Beach

Transition to East Ballroom (15 minutes)

12:35 – 2:30 pm

Luncheon – Awards Ceremony – Majestic Ballroom

2:35 – 5:00 pm

Power Talks – Westside of the Hotel for this event - International Ballroom