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
Markeisha Johnson
Anthony Gregory
Barbara Myers
David Ricks
Ivan Maldonado
Kevin C. Volbrecht
Monica Powery
Nathan P. Mayer, P.E., BCEE
Stacey Garced
Transition to other workshops (15 minutes)
10:30 – 11:15 am
WORKSHOP TWO
Filling in the Gap, GAP Financing - Coconut
David Jaco
10:30 – 11:15 am
WORKSHOP THREE
How to Obtain Bonding – International Ballroom
Markeisha Johnson
Richard Zimmerman
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
Pamela Stewart
Sean Chaderton
Diane Corsi
Mary Anne Gioia
Randy Walker
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.