‘Meet the Buyers’ Event for Arkansas Small Business Owners to be Held on May 20

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (April 16, 2025) – The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) will host a “Meet the Buyers” event on Tuesday, May 20 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Little Rock. Registration is now open to Arkansas entrepreneurs and small business owners interested in expanding their business through new contract opportunities.

The event is designed for small business owners to network with procurement officials – or buyers – from public and private sector organizations. The event will also feature guest speakers and networking opportunities with fellow business owners and industry leaders.

“Our small businesses are a vital part of Arkansas’ economy, and we are committed to supporting their growth,” said Esperanza Massana Crane, director of AEDC’s Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Division. “The Meet the Buyers event will be an incredible opportunity for small business owners to get one-on-one meetings with buyers to pursue contracts and develop relationships that can lead to future success.”

Confirmed buyers participating in the event include:

• Clinton National Airport
• Central Arkansas Water
• City of North Little Rock
• City of Little Rock
• Little Rock Air Force Base
• Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority
• Pulaski County
• More organizations to be announced soon

There will be a $20 registration fee, which includes lunch, for small business participants to register.

Click here to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meet-the-buyers-tickets-1308176895309?aff=oddtdtcreator

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About the Arkansas Economic Development Commission

At AEDC, we know economic advancement doesn’t happen by accident. We work strategically with businesses and communities to create strong economic opportunities, making Arkansas the natural choice for success. AEDC is a division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce. To learn more, visit ArkansasEDC.com.