On February 19th, Temple’s SBDC hosted another successful Temple Business Roundtable (TBR) at the new IEI building on Temple Main Campus. Four expert panelists were brought together to discuss government procurement, focusing n “the why” and “the how”. Each panelist provided the up-and-coming entrepreneur attendees with insight and helpful tips regarding government procurement and general business success.

Panelist Nathan McCann, Vice President of Community Lending for Community First Fund, brought his twenty years of experience to the panel. During the discussion, Mr. McCann mentioned the importance of having equity; “without [equity], banks are less likely to provide funding towards your business idea.”

Victoria Hosendorf, Vice President at The Enterprise Center and Director at the Minority Business Development Agency Business Center, offered her best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, “Don’t be afraid to say ‘I don’t know’ because that is how you are going to grow.” For all entrepreneurs, she also suggested self-reflection as a key to growing your business.

Panelist Mark Jackson, the Director of Milligan & Company’s Tax and Small Business Client Services emphasized the importance of consulting with a professional and developing a business plan because “when your numbers are in order, it is so much easier to focus on your business.” He imparted insight on being cautious and precise when it comes to business taxes and tax liability.

Panelist Nick Esposito, a DBE Specialist at SEPTA, added valuable insight on the free certification process that SEPTA offers. The organization has been able to make major cuts to the processing time in order to better support local businesses.

Many aspiring entrepreneurs were present at the event and stayed after the conclusion of the discussion to network with other event attendees, staff from Temple’s SBDC, and the esteemed panelists. We look forward to next month’s TBR.