Members of the DeSoto Parish Chamber of Commerce received tips on doing business with government during the November Chamber meeting on Tuesday.  They heard from Dr. Gayle Flowers of the Northwest Louisiana Procurement Technical Assistance Center.  She said she works to increase the number of government contracts awarded to local businesses.

Dr. Flowers noted that her agency helps local businesses get ready to secure a contract.  “We’ll determine if a business is ready and then we’ll help get them ready,” said Flowers.  She was referring to the various registrations and certifications a business must have before it goes after a government contract.  She said, “We help remove barriers in their way.”

Her services are paid for by the government.  Dr. Flowers said, “Government agencies are ready to do business with local firms.  We connect the people who can buy with those who have something to sell.”

Government spends 500 billion dollars each year and they buy just about everything.  Dr. Flowers said, “I care about our region and our economy and everything to make it grow.  I am getting the word out that I can help at no cost to the individual business.”

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