Contact Us - Minority Business Development
Contact Us
Address:
1500 East Main Street, 5th Floor
Richmond, VA
23219 USA
Email: Ask Minority Business
Phone: (804)646-5947
Fax: (804)646-0136
Minority Business Dev. - Useful Links
Useful Links
Business tools:
- Black Enterprise
- Cashflow Calculator
- Diversity Business
- EnLoop - Auto Write your Own Plan, step-by-step
- Financing Your Business
- Freshbooks – the #1 invoicing software for small businesses
- Small Business Association (SBA) Learning Center
- Small, Women-owned and Minority-owned Business (SWaM) Certification
- Writing a Business Plan
This guide walks through the three major levels of government contracting—local, state, and federal—highlighting where to begin, what to expect, and how to position your business for success.
Looking for procurement opportunities?
Doing business with government can open doors to valuable opportunities, steady contracting revenue, and long-term partnerships that strengthen local and national economies. Whether you are a small startup or an established enterprise, understanding how to navigate government procurement processes is essential.
Visit the Workshops page for the most current event information.
Doing Business with the City of Richmond
Working with the City of Richmond offers businesses a close-to-home entry point into government contracting. The city regularly purchases goods and services across a wide range of industries, providing opportunities for businesses of all sizes. By registering as a vendor and staying informed about upcoming solicitations, companies can more easily connect with city departments looking for qualified suppliers. Richmond prioritizes inclusive procurement, encouraging participation from small, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses to ensure that local development is both equitable and community‑focused.
Register to do business with the City of Richmond.
Doing Business with the Commonwealth of Virginia
At the state level, the Commonwealth of Virginia operates one of the nation’s leading electronic procurement systems: eVA. This platform centralizes state procurement, making it easier for businesses to identify opportunities, submit proposals, and maintain required documentation. Once registered, vendors gain access to thousands of solicitations across agencies, colleges, and institutions. eVA’s streamlined features—such as automatic notifications and searchable contract records—help businesses compete effectively and confidently in the statewide marketplace.
Register to do business with the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Doing Business with the Federal Government
Engaging in federal contracting offers the largest and most diverse set of opportunities, but it also requires navigating more complex processes. Businesses must register in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov), understand federal procurement rules, and identify agencies aligned with their products or services. While federal contracting can be competitive, it offers significant rewards, including large-scale contracts, set‑aside programs for small and disadvantaged businesses, and long-term stability. With preparation and persistence, companies can successfully position themselves to work with federal agencies across the country.
