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Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Make Me Some Cash - Event Connects Small Business With State Agencies

Nick Evans

Tallahassee’s Regional Matchmaker conference drew businesses from across the state to FSU’s Turnbull Conference Center Thursday.  The event offered entrepreneurs the opportunity to network face-to-face with state and university agencies. 

Florida’s Office of Supplier Diversity cosponsored the event with the goal of promoting business partnerships between minority, veteran, and women business owners throughout the state.  

The Matchmaker portion of the conference felt a lot like speed dating. In fifteen minute increments, vendors delivered their pitch to representatives from the 22 agencies in attendance.  When time is up, a bell rings, and then it’s someone else’s turn.

Jacksonville small business owner Eloy Bazaldua said he’s excited to build so many contacts.

“I want to encourage the decision makers that these sort of functions are really, really helpful for small businesses and please keep them coming,” Bazaldua said.

The Matchmaker conference wraps up a series of events for Florida’s 30th annual small business week.