Join us for our 2nd Quarter Special Evening Event, learn about the benefits of HUB certification when working with state agencies and universities, and learn how to get your business HUB certified. This event will include brief presentations from HUB representatives at Texas Woman’s University, Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and the Statewide Procurement Division and time for Q&A at the end.

Takeaways:

• You’ll learn the benefits of getting HUB certified and how important it can be for your business.
• You’ll get a better idea of the different kinds of contracts that state agencies and universities are looking for, and
• You’ll learn where to find bid opportunities online.

Speakers

Mariah Thompson-Carter is the Marketing Coordinator for the Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program under the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts:

Mariah has worked with the Comptroller’s Statewide Procurement Division for two years, during which time she learned various Texas procurement laws and vendor resources. Her current role is providing outreach and marketing for the Statewide HUB Program and educating small businesses on how to do business with the state of Texas.

Blender Hill, MBA, CTCM, Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Coordinator, Teacher Retirement System of Texas:

Blender Hill is a HUB Coordinator with Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS). She has over twelve years of experience working with small, minority and women-owned businesses. Blender has a BA in Mass Communications from Grambling State University and an MBA in Finance from LeTourneau University. She enjoys helping small business owners connect the dots as they obtain success. Blender currently lives in Austin.

Shawna Smyth, HUB Associate, Procurement and Contract Services, Texas Woman’s University:

Shawna Smyth is the HUB Associate at Texas Woman’s University, where she leads inclusive procurement strategies and initiatives for the university’s three campuses. With a decade of experience in business development, Shawna is uniquely qualified to spearhead new programs at TWU that expand opportunities for diverse suppliers, enhancing supply chain resilience and community impact. She is focused on advancing TWU’s commitment to diversity and inclusion by developing innovative strategies that drive sustainable growth and equitable opportunities.